Intro To Vodka: The Neutral Spirit

By Robert Giles

Vodka is a common ingredient in many cocktails that we all enjoy. From the Long Island iced tea to the Cape Cod and everything in-between, you will find this spirit as the base or major component within most drinks.

What is it that makes this spirit so ubiquitous? Today, we take a look at some vodka basics and see what qualities you need to look for when stocking your home bar.

As you look through the vodka aisle you will see a multitude of brands and price points to choose from. What exactly should you be looking for? First, let's talk ingredients. Vodka is made from a mash of starch or sugar heavy fruit or grain that is distilled into a near flavorless alcohol. This distillation occurs several times and depends on the producer. The resulting high-alcohol product is then filtered and diluted before bottling.

In the end, you want something that is nearly flavorless or that is made from a particular mash. If you need something that is gluten free you can go with Chopin or Monopolowa from Poland and Austria, respectively. You can also find vodkas made from rice such as the Japanese vodka Haku. Potato vodkas tend to have slightly more body and a slight sweetness while rice vodkas stay very light.

Is organic important to you, then look towards Ocean. If you want a vodka that is eco-friendly, then try 360 Vodka. Then there is the perennial best seller of Tito's that is always smooth, pure, and hand made to this day.

Each of these vodkas would be the perfect ingredient to any of your cocktails. The great thing about vodka is that since it is nearly flavorless it will take on the flavors of any other ingredients you add.

Why is a vodka cranberry so refreshing? The alcohol is not trying to add flavors to your cranberry juice. Once you find your preferred vodka, stock your bar and throw a party. Cheers!