Choosing the Perfect Vodka

To the uninitiated, vodka is simply a tasteless clear source of a buzz- much like rubbing alcohol. To those experienced connoisseurs who truly appreciate the nuances of a great vodka, it can be one of the most sublime drinks to ever grace a glass.

Vodka originated in Eastern Europe and remains Russia's alcohol of choice. It is distilled from many different fermentation sources including wheat, other grains and potatoes. It forms the basis of vodka martinis, Bloody Marys, and a host of other mixed drinks. On its own, vodka's subtle fermentation flavors come through. Unfortunately, not all vodkas are make alike and, just like wine or beer, there are some terrible ones and some inspired ones. A general rule is to always choose vodkas that disclose as much of their process as possible on their label. That gives you a starting point to understand what goes into a good vodka. Here's what to look for when picking up a great bottle of vodka:

Source of fermentation

Vodka starts off like any fermented product like wine or beer. A source of sugar or carbohydrates feeds yeasts to create the byproduct of alcohol. In the case of vodka and other liquors, this fermented liquid is then distilled to purify and concentrate the alcohol. This is why liquor has a higher alcohol content than wine or beer.

The source of sugar can be anything from potatoes to grains to sugar beets to grapes. The source will give subtle flavors to the final product. That flavor can be bitter and gasoline-like in cheaper vodkas with cheap inputs or can have subtle vanilla and soft tones from quality ingredients.

Premium vodkas, such as Stolichnaya (commonly referred to as Stoly), have wheat as their base which provides a subtle nutty flavor. Other quality vodkas like Ciroc, use grapes as their base. In general, stay away from vodkas that do not disclose their fermentation source. It's likely something they're not proud of.

Number of distillations

The purpose of distilling vodka is two-fold: to leave behind the impurities in the fermentation process and to intensify the alcohol content. Quality vodkas are distilling several times to make them purer and softer. This frequently makes them also too high in alcohol to sell commercially so they are watered back down (which is why the source of water is important- see below). Quality vodkas are distilled often four or five times. Avoid vodkas that do not discuss their distillation process on their label.

Source of water

There are two places in the making of vodka that water is used. The first is in the fermentation process when the wheat, grapes or potatoes are fermented in vats of water with yeast. The second is post-distillation when the vodka is brought to the correct alcohol content. Depending on the vodka maker, water can come from municipal sources, rivers, pure springs or sources you may not wish to contemplate. Look for vodkas that use the purest sources of water in their process.

Filtration

Filtering during the vodka-making process is highly controversial. Vodka makers who wish to produce the "purest" and "smoothest" vodkas will filter extensively during and after distillation to remove any impurities that could affect the taste. Traditional vodka distillers want their brand to retain its distinctive taste and therefore filter either minimally or not at all. You will develop your own preference over time.