Vodka

On the history of vodka - a "little water" with a punch

Vodka is firmly rooted in Slavic culture and is considered a national beverage in Poland and Russia. It is unclear in which of the two countries vodka was created - what is certain is only that the origin of the grain brandy dates back to the 14th century. Once professional distilleries had been developed, vodka spread quickly, even more so when the potato was discovered as a starch for vodka production in the 19th century.

Today, quality-driven distilleries exclusively use grain and grain mixes in the production of their vodka. The vodka tradition has long since spread from Russia and Poland to countries such as Finland, Sweden and Denmark. Absolut Vodka and Finlandia Vodka are some of today's most widely recognised international brands and a large variety of these can also be found in the Heinemann range of products.

From the mash to the still - this is how vodka is produced

One special feature of vodka production includes the many distillation and filtering processes. This allows the distillate to become especially clear, giving it a pure, almost neutral taste. Other than that, the production process is very similar to that used for grain brandy. Grain or other starches such as potatoes or molasses are mashed and fermented with yeast to an alcoholic mix.

The mash is distilled several times and is then filtered through several runs in order to remove any fusel oils and undesirable aromas. Traditionally, active coal is used for filtering, but some manufacturers also use milk protein or silver particles as a filter medium. Generally, vodka is filled and sold after the last filtration.

Polish, Russian and Finnish vodka - how do they differ?

Many producers rely on their own distillation and filtration processes, often ones they have developed themselves, irrespective of the country of origin. However, there are regional differences with respect to the raw materials: 

• Russian vodka is often the result of a mix made from rye and wheat, but in rare cases also made of wheat only.
• Polish vodka is mostly distilled from rye, however there are also vodkas available that are priced lower and are produced on the basis of potatoes.
• Finnish vodka is often distilled from barley - a particular characteristic, which is typically reserved for the production of whisky.
• Swedish vodka typically uses wheat - just like the many young German vodka brands and the famous French Grey Goose.

Incredibly complex - high quality vodka available in the Heinemann shop 

Vodka just begs to be experimented with: Be inspired by our exclusive selection of international vodkas in the Heinemann shop. Enjoy vodka either on the rocks, in a cocktail or even in modern dessert creations. Order Russian Standard, Danzka Vodka, Absolut and other vodka brands online and have your order conveniently shipped to your home.