Liquor & SpiritsNuetral Spirits
Vodka is essentially neutral spirits distilled from various grains, potatoes, or beets. 'There are differences from country to country and producer to producer, but it is whatever is the most available and economical. As with whiskey, the grain (or potatoes or beets) is made into a mash. fermented, and then put through a continuous still. The distillates come off around 190 proof and then may be fiItered through substances such as charcoal before being diluted by distilled water Being almost entirely neutral, vodka is the ultimate cocktail spirit as it takes on the flavor of the mixer.
Belvedere
Smirnoff - the leading brand in the United States. Smirnoff is a high quality, domestic product that is charcoal filtered. 80 proof.
Absolut - produced in Sweden and created for the export market, Absolut is a clean, very smooth vodka. (lnterestingly enough, the Swedes drink Aquavit and not vodka). 80 proof.
Absolut Peppar - spicy yet subtle, its pepper flavors are pronounced and is the ultimate Bloody Mary vodka ("Pepper Mary"). 80 proof.
Absolut Citron - referred to as the "sprite" of vodkas. Subtle lemon-lime flavors make Citron a good introduction for the novice martini-drinker. 80 proof.
Ketel one - produced in Holland by the Nolet family in the same distillation equipment since 1691, Ketel one is the only pot-distilled vodka available. Triple distilled, it makes the ultimate vodka martini. 80 proof.
Stolichnaya - the largest selling Russian export vodka. Stoli has a smooth, almost silky body and a faint sweetness in the finish. 80 proof.
Stolichnaya Cristall - super-premium version of the above, ultra-smooth and crisp with a nice lingering finish. 80 proof.
Skyy - an American product made in America, Skyy's claim to the vodka market is that it is distilled four times, thus eliminating the headache producing congners that most spirits contain Skyy uses a continuous still and the resultant product is very very neutral in flavor. 80 proof
Tanqueray Sterling - riding on the success and name of their gin, this is their entry in the premium vodka market. It is more viscous and oilier tasting than the other vodkas on Tarpy's list. It has developed a small, loyal following. 80 proof.