What is Vodka Made from? What’s Inside Matters.

Learn what goes into vodka and how it influences the taste and quality of your favorite drinks.

Ever been curious about the ingredients in vodka, one of the world’s most loved spirits?

Behind every sip of vodka lies a fascinating story of carefully chosen ingredients and precise methods, inviting connoisseurs and casual drinkers to discover its origins. From its humble beginnings to its esteemed status, the evolution of vodka’s contents reflects cultural richness and artistry.

We obviously use the best ingredients, but in this article, you’ll learn about all the different ingredients used in its creation and how these factors contribute to the unique flavors and characteristics of this alcoholic beverage.

Do All Vodkas Have the Same Taste?

Vodka experts note that distillation temperature impacts taste. But, overall, vodka is typically a clear, tasteless liquor, deriving its flavor mainly from the burning sensation when consumed. Hence, it’s a popular choice for mixing because of its neutral taste.

Vodka tastes even better when chilled, so remember to do that before taking a sip. Serving vodka at a cooler temperature brings out its nuances more distinctly. Also, trying different food pairings can amp up the flavors of this smooth spirit.

The Foundational Vodka Ingredients

As a simple spirit, vodka is crafted from only a handful of ingredients:

• Fermentable base – The base ingredient is the source of sugar fermented into alcohol. Potato vodka is a classic liquor recipe, but the main raw ingredients for vodka are a blend of cereal grains like wheat, sorghum, or rye.
• Water – In vodka production, water dilutes the high-proof spirit to reach the desired alcohol by volume (ABV). To be labeled as vodka in the US, the finished vodka needs to have an alcohol content of at least 40% ABV; in the European Union (EU), at least 37.5% ABV is required.
• Optional additives – Vodka producers may add some ingredients to differentiate their products. Some brands add fruit extracts for a flavored version, like lemon, raspberry, or vanilla.

Base Ingredients: From Potatoes to Grains

Vodka can be distilled from just about anything that ferments to make alcohol, but it’s mostly made from potatoes, sugar beet molasses, and grains. And the ingredients used will greatly impact its flavor.

Potato Vodkas

Associated with traditional vodka-making. Potato vodkas have a unique texture and flavor compared to grain-based vodkas. They have a fleshy mouthfeel and are more savory, with earthy, nutty flavors that express the terroir of where the potatoes are grown.

Potatoes are used for their high starch content, which can be converted into sugar and fermented. Statistics show that only about 3% of vodka sold worldwide is made from potatoes.

Grain-Based Vodkas

The most common type of vodka is grain-based, making up most of the vodka produced nowadays. Popular grains used are wheat, rye, and barley, but can include corn, buckwheat, or quinoa.

Each grain presents a distinct flavor profile. For example, rye vodkas lean towards the spicy spectrum, while corn vodkas offer a rich, buttery taste.

Wheat vodkas (Our favorite), on the other hand, are often described as light, crisp, and subtly sweet, making them highly favored. They are clean, mild in taste, blend harmoniously, and are well-suited for chilled consumption.

The prevalence of using grains in vodka production led the EU to specify in its regulations (No. 110/2008) that “To take into account consumer expectations about the raw materials used for vodka, especially in the traditional vodka producing Member States, provision should be made for adequate information to be provided on the raw material used where the vodka is made from raw materials of agricultural origin other than cereals and/or potatoes.”

This means vodkas produced from grapes and other non-traditional ingredients must disclose this information on their labels.

Water Source: Importance in Vodka Production

The composition of vodka primarily consists of ethanol and water. During the production of vodka, water is used at least twice – first in the fermentation stage, where it is combined with raw ingredients to create a mash, and then after distillation to dilute the concentrated alcohol to a palatable level, usually around 40% alcohol by volume (ABV).

Approximately 60% of vodka is water, so the quality and purity of this ingredient play a crucial role in the final product.  That is why our water comes from a deep well in Åhus where it’s protected from impurities.

Distilleries are often set up in areas with abundant water supply, preferably soft water low in salts like sodium, chloride, calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate, and magnesium. They typically source water from artesian wells or natural springs.

Vodka makers nowadays use modern water purification technology to demineralize water through reverse osmosis. This process produces pure, tasteless water that doesn’t impact the flavor of the final vodka product.

Flavored Vodkas: Adding a Twist to the Classic Spirit

Vodka has a history of being a neutral spirit, but flavored vodka has gained popularity in recent years.

Initially, flavored vodkas were created to mask the harsh taste of vodka resulting from primitive distillation methods. However, when Absolut introduced its Pepper flavor in 1986 to create the perfect Bloody Mary, it marked the debut of flavored vodka in the market.  Today some of our most popular flavors are Vanilla Vodka and Lime Vodka. 

Today, vodka makers have taken this trend to a whole new level, creating endless flavors such as lemon, raspberry, and even salted caramel.

Other Ingredients Used for Vodka

Although potatoes and grains are vodka’s most common base ingredients, other materials can be used to create this popular spirit. Each adds a unique flavor to the vodka, creating a unique tasting experience. Some of these include:

• Sugar cane
• Quinoa
• Grapes
• Olives
• Rice
• Whey
• Maple sap
• Honey
• Apples
• Corn

Ways To Serve and Drink Vodka

Here are some of the most common ways people enjoy their vodka:

• Straight up – The most straightforward method to enjoy vodka is to have it neat, poured into a glass and sipped as is. This approach is favored by genuine vodka enthusiasts, allowing them to savor the spirit’s flavor and aroma fully.
• On the rocks – Vodka on the rocks is an equally simple way to enjoy your drink. It’s served over ice cubes, where the ice slowly melts and dilutes the vodka as you sip it. Be cautious not to weaken the flavor with excessive ice. A couple of cubes should suffice.
• In a cocktail – Vodka is used as a base in many mixed drinks, such as Cosmopolitan or Espresso Martini. It’s mixed with other ingredients to create diverse flavors and textures.

A Toast to Craftsmanship

Vodka’s simplicity can be its strength, and its possibility of experimenting with ingredients makes it versatile. From traditional potato vodkas to modern flavoured versions, vodka has no stopping from evolving and adapting to consumer preferences.

Whether you prefer your vodka neat, on the rocks, or mixed in a cocktail, one thing is for sure – this clear spirit is here to stay. So, why not explore Absolut’s wide variety of plain, flavored, and infused vodka to find your perfect sip? Discover your next favorite vodka and learn the stories behind each bottle.

Join AJ on a flavor-packed ride with Absolut Watermelon as they whip up a crowd-pleasing Frozen Absolut Watermelon Vodkarita. Inspired by summery dishes like fresh salads, AJ combines Absolut Watermelon with orange liqueur, lime juice, simple syrup, and a dash of salt to create a drink that screams summer vibes.

As the blender buzzes away, blending everything into a frosty treat, you’ll taste the sweet watermelon goodness mixed with tangy citrus flavors. It’s like a sip of summer, perfect for chill hangouts with pals or lounging by the pool. AJ’s playful take on Absolut Watermelon shows off its versatility and sets the stage for endless summer fun.

Subscribe to Absolut Drinks on YouTube today for more tips, tricks and cocktail recipes!

Ever since we first discovered how to carbonate water, we’ve been mixing and enjoying it with all different kinds of spirits. The humble highball may not sound like much at first glance, but by mastering these four steps, you too can take your carbonated cocktails from “That’s alcohol and soda” to “THAT’S ALCOHOL AND SODA?!”.

1. Keep it cool: Firstly, if you’re looking to make a perfect highball, keep everything from the spirits to the glasses as cold as possible. In Japan, you’ll frequently see highballs being served at local Izakayas in pre-frozen highball glasses or in some cases even frozen beer steins. The main reason for this is that the chill actually helps keep the bubbles fresh and sparkling for longer. No one wants to drink a flat, lukewarm highball, so make sure to pop those glasses in the freezer for a bit before you start mixing.
2. Don’t Skimp On The Ice: Some of you will instinctively think that more ice equals more dilution, but I’m here to tell you that’s incorrect. You see, the more ice we put in the glass, the cooler the contents become. This keeps the ice from melting too quickly, diluting the drink and ruining the fizz. Plus, more ice is better on the eyes. So make sure to fill that glass up with a generous amount of cubes.
3. The Golden Ratio: Now, this may sound obvious, but getting the ratio of ingredients right is paramount for mixing a great highball. This is a bit subjective, but I’d recommend starting with a 3:1 ratio of soda water to base spirit. So if you’re putting 45 ml of base spirit into your drink, you’ll want to use 135 ml of seltzer. However, the most important thing is that you and your guests like the taste of the drink, so if you feel like that ratio isn’t to your liking try experimenting with it a bit. If it feels too strong, try a 4:1 ratio. If you want something stronger, you can even try a 2:1. It all depends on what you prefer, but use 3:1 as a starting point and experiment from there to find what you like.
4. Garnish Creatively: Last but not least, you’ll want a nice garnish for your highball. Preferably something that not only looks pretty but also helps amplify the flavors and aromas of your base spirit. For most, a simple citrus zest will do the trick, especially if you twist and rub the zest around the rim of the glass to express those aromatic oils. However, you can also get a bit more creative with your garnish, especially if you’re using flavored spirits. In our case, we like to look towards herbs and spices more commonly found in the kitchen. For example, in the video above, you’ll see AJ pairing Absolut Pears with Black Pepper and Thyme and Absolut Raspberri with Rosemary. These combinations are usually found in the kitchen but work equally as well behind the bar to help bring out the hidden qualities of your base spirit. So, make sure to experiment and try to find an unexpected pairing to complement the base spirit you’re using.

To finish off, I just want to urge you to read these tips and recipes more as guidelines than strict rules. Like I mentioned, the most important thing is to make something you enjoy, and if these guidelines get in the way of that, be sure to discard them. Also, I want to urge you to try experimenting with different base spirits. A highball is a great way to discover hidden qualities in most spirits and a great way to try different kinds for the first time. Remember, if you like the base spirit, you’re probably gonna like it in a highball.

For more tips, tricks, and cocktail recipes, make sure to visit absolutdrinks.com and subscribe to Absolut Drinks on YouTube.

Are you ready for a culinary adventure that’s as irresistible as it is unexpected? Welcome to the world of vodka sauce, a spirited twist to traditional Italian cuisine. Strap in as we get into the details of this delicious sauce and whip up a recipe that’s sure to taste as amazing as it sounds. 

What Exactly is Vodka Sauce?

Okay, let’s dive right in. Vodka sauce may sound like a saucy drink, but Vodka Sauce is actually a creamy, tomato-based pasta sauce with a unique and slightly boozy kick. Originating from Italian-American cuisine, its mystique lies in the addition of vodka, which adds depth of flavor and a subtle warmth to the dish. Despite its name, vodka sauce doesn’t taste strongly of alcohol – instead, it enhances the rich flavors of tomatoes, cream, and herbs, resulting in a velvety, indulgent sauce that’s simply irresistible.

The Legend Behind the Sauce

Legend has it that vodka sauce was born out of a happy accident in the kitchen of an Italian-American chef. While experimenting with various ingredients, the chef decided to add a splash of vodka to a traditional tomato sauce, hoping to impart a unique flavor. The result? A culinary masterpiece that quickly became a beloved favorite among pasta enthusiasts worldwide.

Recipe: How to make Absolut Vodka Sauce

Now, we’re sure all of this is making you a little hungry and maybe curious to try it out for your next pasta night. So, let’s dive into creating our own version of this delectable sauce, infused with the smooth and crisp taste of Absolut vodka.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup Absolut vodka
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Cooked pasta of your choice

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Pour in the Absolut vodka and let it simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly.
4. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring until well combined. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken further.
5. Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
6. Serve the vodka sauce over cooked pasta of your choice, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.

There you have it – a dash of excitement for your next pasta night with this deliciously unexpected vodka sauce — after all, life’s too short for boring meals. To find the perfect pairing visit absolutdrinks.com

Ok, so given that you’re an avid reader of this blog you know about the incentivised system we have with our wheat farmers (cheat: read previous sustaiability post). But maybe you’re hungry for more details? Let’s take a dive into this buffet of tools.

Basically, what the Absolut Wheat Sustainability Programme addresses, are three things; climate, biodiversity and soil health. How? By a number of activities that implemented in a farm, contributes to improve at least one of those three areas.

For instance, using renewable fuels in tractors reduces CO2 emissions from your farm which is good for the climate and therefor awards you points. Or growing flowers creates wintering opportunities for insects, and beetles, which is great for the biodiversity and therefor awards you points. Or using organic fertilizers instead of mineral ones creates better soil health and therefor awards you points. Easy.

So every supplier has to reach at least 12 points but it’s up to them which activities on the menu to implement on their farm – no one-fits-all solutions in this programme.

To learn more about the Absolut Wheat Sustainability, click here.

Ok, so given that you’re an avid reader of this blog you know about the incentivised system we have with our wheat farmers (cheat: read previous sustaiability post). But maybe you’re hungry for more details? Let’s take a dive into this buffet of tools.

Basically, what the Absolut Wheat Sustainability Programme addresses, are three things; climate, biodiversity and soil health. How? By a number of activities that implemented in a farm, contributes to improve at least one of those three areas.

For instance, using renewable fuels in tractors reduces CO2 emissions from your farm which is good for the climate and therefor awards you points. Or growing flowers creates wintering opportunities for insects, and beetles, which is great for the biodiversity and therefor awards you points. Or using organic fertilizers instead of mineral ones creates better soil health and therefor awards you points. Easy.

So every supplier has to reach at least 12 points but it’s up to them which activities on the menu to implement on their farm – no one-fits-all solutions in this programme.

To learn more about the Absolut Wheat Sustainability, click here.

Ok, so given that you’re an avid reader of this blog you know about the incentivised system we have with our wheat farmers (cheat: read previous sustaiability post). But maybe you’re hungry for more details? Let’s take a dive into this buffet of tools.

Basically, what the Absolut Wheat Sustainability Programme addresses, are three things; climate, biodiversity and soil health. How? By a number of activities that implemented in a farm, contributes to improve at least one of those three areas.

For instance, using renewable fuels in tractors reduces CO2 emissions from your farm which is good for the climate and therefor awards you points. Or growing flowers creates wintering opportunities for insects, and beetles, which is great for the biodiversity and therefor awards you points. Or using organic fertilizers instead of mineral ones creates better soil health and therefor awards you points. Easy.

So every supplier has to reach at least 12 points but it’s up to them which activities on the menu to implement on their farm – no one-fits-all solutions in this programme.

To learn more about the Absolut Wheat Sustainability, click here.

Ok, so given that you’re an avid reader of this blog you know about the incentivised system we have with our wheat farmers (cheat: read previous sustaiability post). But maybe you’re hungry for more details? Let’s take a dive into this buffet of tools.

Basically, what the Absolut Wheat Sustainability Programme addresses, are three things; climate, biodiversity and soil health. How? By a number of activities that implemented in a farm, contributes to improve at least one of those three areas.

For instance, using renewable fuels in tractors reduces CO2 emissions from your farm which is good for the climate and therefor awards you points. Or growing flowers creates wintering opportunities for insects, and beetles, which is great for the biodiversity and therefor awards you points. Or using organic fertilizers instead of mineral ones creates better soil health and therefor awards you points. Easy.

So every supplier has to reach at least 12 points but it’s up to them which activities on the menu to implement on their farm – no one-fits-all solutions in this programme.

To learn more about the Absolut Wheat Sustainability, click here.