Distilling Knowledge Vodka Flashcards
Where did vodka originate?
Poland and Russia
When did Vodka become hip?
1980 when Absolut began its assault on the US market
What are the traditional ingredients used in Eastern European vodka?
Grains (barley wheat and rye) Potato Maize Molasses Grape
How are most grains handled in vodka production?
Since it is not required to use source enzymes, most producers cook the grain to hydrolyse the starch and the final conversion is done with the addition of commercially purchased enzymes
Why is the choice of yeast especially important?
Since a light spirit is the goal, yeast that produce fewer congeners are desired
Why is continuous distillation the only credible option?
The distillate used to make vodka has to be an HRS. HRS can be made using two columns as long as the rectifier has enough plates (generally 42). 95% or EU 96% for US
What is the EU max for methanol
10g/hL = very low
De-methylising has to take place for nearly every vodka made in the EU (potato especially)
How can pot stills fit in to vodka production?
If used before the HRS is made it just acts as an analyser. To have an effect on the product it must be used when the HRS has been made. The HRS is diluted with water and put through the pot still. Since the spirit was low on congeners from the beginning the level of adjustments to the spirit is limited. But some claim it smooths out the mouthfeel
How is charcoal made
It is made by burning carbon-rich materials such as wood in a low oxygen environment.
This rearranges the atoms forming what is in effect a net than can trap large molecules
What is a grade of charcoal?
Activated charcoal
This is the most efficient
What filtration method is most commonly used?
Chill filtration as this makes the appearance crystal clear
Describe rye vodka
zesty and spicy
Describe barley vodka
clean and crisp
Describe potato vodka
full body with a creamy texture
Historically what is the base for Russian vodka?
wheat base
