Can you buy aged vodka? The answer is yes, you can indeed purchase aged vodka. While vodka is traditionally known for its clear and neutral flavor profile, some distilleries have taken it upon themselves to experiment with aging their spirits in various types of barrels, similar to the process used for aging whiskey or rum.
One such example is Barrel Aged Vodka, a spirit that has been aged in first fill American oak rye barrels. This aging process imparts unique flavors and characteristics to the vodka, resulting in a spirit that is far from your typical clear and flavorless vodka.
The use of first fill American oak rye barrels brings a whole new dimension to the vodka. These barrels have previously been used to age rye whiskey, which gives them a rich and complex flavor profile. When the vodka is aged in these barrels, it picks up the flavors and aromas of the wood, resulting in a spirit that is enriched with sweet, creamy vanilla undertones, a hint of spice, and subtle charred oak.
Imagine sipping on a vodka that has the smoothness and elegance of a fine whiskey, with the added complexity and depth of flavor that comes from aging in oak barrels. The vanilla undertones add a touch of sweetness, balancing out the inherent heat of the vodka and creating a beautifully balanced spirit. The hint of spice adds a subtle kick, while the charred oak brings a touch of smokiness to the overall flavor profile.
The process of aging vodka in barrels is not a quick one. It takes time for the flavors of the wood to infuse into the spirit, and the exact aging period can vary depending on the desired flavor profile. Some distilleries may age their vodka for a few months, while others may opt for a longer aging period to achieve a more pronounced flavor.
The result of this aging process is a vodka that is truly unique and unlike anything you've tasted before. It's a spirit that can be sipped on its own, enjoyed neat or on the rocks, or used as a base for cocktails that call for a more complex and flavorful vodka.
So, if you're looking to expand your vodka horizons and try something a little different, I would highly recommend seeking out a bottle of aged vodka. It's a spirit that combines the best of both worlds – the smoothness and versatility of vodka, with the complexity and depth of flavor that comes from aging in oak barrels. Cheers to a new vodka experience!