Did Russia Annex Vodka?
We are all well aware of Russia’s attempt to annex Ukraine today. It’s a horrible violation of international law. But, it’s totally in keeping with their history. When we think of vodka, most people picture a Russian guy with a cossack hat in Moscow. That’s because Russia drinks more vodka and claims to have invented it. But, that is probably not true. A search of literary references to vodka shows Poland as the original producers of the liquor. And, the name vodka comes from the Slavic languages (Sweden), meaning little water (Voda = water, k is diminutive, and a is a feminine suffix). So, could it be? Did Russia Annex Vodka? Perhaps, we can return it to its rightful owners and share it with the world. For, today is national Vodka day. So, let’s celebrate with one of the most versatile liquors in the world.
We think of vodka as a neutral clear beverage that is high in alcohol. But, that’s not what it always was. The root of vodka is fermented grains like corn or potatoes. early versions were more likely used as medicine. They had a different smell, taste, and color. And, their alcohol content was around 14%. Today, vodka has to have an alcohol content of 40% or more (37.5% in Europe). The polish word wodka referred to medicines and cleansers in the 14th and 15th centuries, while the word Gorzalka referred to the beverage. But, with a little refinement and artistry, we now have the clear liquid we all clamor for. While Russia may drink more vodka, They are not the only ones making it. And, credit should go to Poland and Sweden for inventing it.
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Did Russia Annex Vodka? Let’s take it back, homegrown style.
Vodka is a simple, yet elegant liquor. But, there are multiple ways to make it. basically, you need a high starch grain or vegetable as a base. Corn, sorghum, apples, beets, and even maple syrup all find their way into different versions of vodka. But, many people think that it (in the words of Stephen Colbert) is potato. And, indeed, some vodkas are made from potatoes. In fact, there is a vodka distillery in New Brunswick, on the road to PEI (Where the potato is king) called “Blue Roof” Vodka. Their mascot is a giant Potato.
And, there are many distilleries across America and other places in the world. So, don’t think you have to support the Russians when you drink Vodka. In fact, Absolut is one of the best selling vodkas in the US. And, it’s from Sweden. Even Stoli, which was from Russia, is now made in Latvia. But, we prefer to shop local. So, branch out and find a local distillery. There was a time when operating a still was an illegal activity, producing rot gut moonshine that could leave you blind. Now, you can have a high end artisan distillery in most major metropolitan areas (and some rural areas as well. Blue roof is an hour from the nearest “big city”). Distilleries like McClintock in Maryland and Spring 44 in Colorado have garnered awards and acclaim across the region. Tito’s started in Austin, Texas, and has grown to a household name.
What to do with Russian Vodka (since they annexed it)
In fact, Russian Vodka only makes up about 12 to 14% of the international market. And, most of that is in Russia itself. In the US, Russian vodka constitutes less than 2% of the market. And, hopefully, since their war, we are under 1%. The last guy to hold the office of President, and the current one both extolled the importance of buying American. And, with all the great offerings out there, that is a good idea. The internet is your friend in finding where good vodka is. In fact, follow this link to your next booze experience. Chances are, there is someplace near you that makes a good quality vodka. Let the Russians drink their own swill, while their disinformation minister tells them it’s great, while really saying to himself: “is potato.” Shop local and support your neighborhood distillery.
What to look for
Vodka has been called fire water of fire wine in various languages. And, some do burn. But, a good quality vodka can have some unique characteristics. While it is generally described as a neutral spirit, it can be more complex. Remember, it comes from a variety of sources, like corn, potato, rye, and beets. Each of those has a unique flavor. And, that flavor does show through, even if it is subtle. Somewhere, I heard someone comparing it to bread. You may think of white bread as toast with your breakfast. But, what happens when you eat rye, pumpernickel, or even an English muffin? It’s a totally different experience. Of course, if you start getting into grains like barley and rye, then you are treading into whiskey territory. But, maintaining a clear, colorless liquid is the art of vodka.
Subtlety is the key. Vodka can have its unique flavor. But, it’s usually a mixer. So, maintaining neutrality is a hallmark (kind of like Sweden). To that end, we recommend keeping a couple different vodkas on hand. You will want a high quality unique vodka for drinking straight. Something like a Domaine Charbay or Vermont Gold Maple Vodka are good choices for something you can sip straight out of the freezer or on the rocks. Then, you will want a more neutral everyday vodka for mixed drinks. Remember, when you mix in all sorts of things like citrus juice, the flavor of the vodka is going to be overshadowed since it is subtle. You wouldn’t use a $300 Cristal champagne in a mimosa. So, why use a high quality vodka in a screwdriver? Save some money and use the cheaper stuff for the heavily mixed drinks.
Celebrate in your own way
while you contemplate: “Did Russia Annex Vodka”, pour a couple cocktails to celebrate national Vodka day. Last year, we brought you a couple martini recipes. This year, we want to share a couple very different applications of vodka.
The first is a lemon basil martini. Simply muddle basil and sugar, add limoncello and a good quality vodka, and serve in a martini glass. The vodka will be bolstered by the citrus.
Our second offering is a little off the beaten path. We make a balsamic syrup and mix that with muddled blueberries and Black vodka, and finish with seltzer to lighten it up. Vinegar in a drink may not sound like they go together. But, give this a try. You’ll be pleasantly surprised. The sweetness of the blueberries and sugar blend well with the balsamic (which is a little sweet to begin with). Black vodka is not that common. It gets its color from the Uncaria Gambier tree. But, don’t worry. It still tastes like vodka. You can substitute other vodkas if you want. We just like the cool color and saying black vodka.
Twoje zdrowie
Lemon Basil Vodka Martini
Ingredients
- 8 Oz Good Quality Vodka
- 2 Oz Limoncello
- 2 Oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 2 Oz Sugar
- 2 Tbsp Fresh Basil Leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 4 Each Lemon Wheels For garnish
- Ice
Instructions
- Muddle the Basil and Sugar in a Large Pitcher to Extract the flavor, Stir in the lemon juice and mix will. Add the ice, Limoncello and vodka and stir well. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with basil leaves and lemon wheels. Drink, and repeat.
Blueberry, Balsamic, and Black Vodka Spritzer
Ingredients
- 2 Ounces Aged Balsamic vinegar
- 2 Oz Sugar
- 1/2 Cup Fresh Blueberries, plus extra for garnish
- 8 Oz Black Vodka (may substitute regular vodka)
- 2 Oz Lime Juice
- 2 to 3 Cups Seltzer or club soda
- Lime garnishes
- Ice
Instructions
- Bring balsamic and half of the sugar to a boil in a pot. Reduce the liquid by 1/2 until it becomes a syrup. Cool this down before using.
- Muddle the blueberries and remaining sugar in a pitcher until well macerated. Then add in the Lime juice, balsamic syrup, and vodka. Mix well. Then, stir in the seltzer. Pour into a glass and garnish with lime and blueberries.
Notes
