The celebrated spirit that vodka is, has an expansive history and origin that dates back centuries. Used often to make cocktails, in cooking or even in its original form as an alcoholic beverage, popular belief continues to be biased because of certain myths that have traversed generations. While wanting to enhance one’s drinking experience means that being open to a wide variety of spirits is ideal, unveiling the truths behind these misconceptions can paint a clearer picture of this distilled liquor.
Vodka Is Made From Potatoes
A prevalent fallacy about vodka asserts that vodka it is an exclusive derivative of potatoes when in reality, only a mere 3% of the world’s vodka production is obtained from potatoes. The essence of the spirit lies in its adaptability, allowing for distillation from various fermentable sources like winter wheat and corn.
The Flavour & Quality Is Consistent
Contrary to assumptions, the uniformity or the idea that all vodkas are made the same is one that continues to dim the greatness of this spirit. Unlike whiskies or wines, each brand of vodka undergoes its own distinct production processes, yielding unique characteristics. Due to their perceived neutrality, vodka is often considered to taste the same; however, Eastern European varieties are robust and potent due to raw materials, contrast to the milder Western counterparts, showcasing a diversity in flavours and strengths.
Multiple Distillations Don't Enhance Quality
While common belief is that the more distilled a vodka is, the clearer and better it appears and tastes. However, the idea is a flawed one since its quality does not escalate steadily with increased distillations. On the other hand, using optimal ingredients and undergoing a single distillation when premium, is known to yield exceptional results.
Origins Of The Spirit
While it is true that Russia birthed vodka, the production of the spirit spans the globe. With changing political dynamics all over, vodkas made in countries like Sweden, Poland, Ukraine and Kazakhstan have garnered acclaim. Countries meeting quality and purity are key criteria for making craft vodka, giving it an ubiquitous presence globally.
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Higher Prices Equal Superior Quality
With vodka, equating higher prices to higher quality, is in vain since how it is priced often hinges more on image and branding than the vodka’s actual essence itself. Finding the ideal vodka isn’t relative in anyway on the price tag but must focus more on available options and personal preferences.
The Hangover Cure
One of the most common misconceptions suggest that drinking high-quality vodka minimizes the chances of or severity of a hangover. Objectively speaking, a hangover is primarily influenced by factors like volume of alcohol consumption, levels of hydration and personal capacities. While the purity and quality of vodka does impact one’s overall drinking experience, no alcoholic beverage in general can guarantee full immunity from the effects of overindulgence.