Vodka

The right choice for purists – purchase fine vodka online

Simplicity triumphs – and so does simply great vodka. Few spirits are consumed as frequently and in so many different ways: whether during a meal or at a party, in a cocktail, or simply on its own. Purity and clear, authentic taste are the hallmarks of a good vodka (or wodka) - no wonder the name means "little water" in Russian and Polish. A high quality vodka can far exceed water when it comes to taste; see for yourself by trying one of the top quality vodkas available in the Heinemann shop. Discover international vodkas from Smirnoff, Grey Goose, Belvedere, Absolut and many more.

How long has vodka been produced?

Vodka is firmly rooted in Slavic culture and is considered a national beverage in Poland and Russia, where it is also spelled "Wodka". 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 to produce their vodkas. The vodka tradition has long since spread from Russia and Poland to countries such as Finland, Sweden and Denmark. Finlandia Vodka and Absolut Vodka are some of today's most widely recognized international brands and a large variety of these are available in the Heinemann range of products, first and foremost Absolut Vodka in a liter bottle.

From the mash to the still – how is vodka produced?

One special feature of vodka production are the many distillation and filtering processes it includes. 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 into an alcoholic mix.

The mash is distilled several times and is then filtered through several runs in order to remove any fusel alcohols and undesirable aromas. Activated charcoal is traditionally 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.

How do Polish, Russian and Finnish vodkas differ?

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

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

Incredibly complex – high quality vodka available in the Heinemann shop 

Vodka (or Wodka) 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 Belvedere Vodka, Danzka Vodka, Absolut and other vodka brands online and have your order conveniently shipped to your home.