It is indeed possible to make alcohol with beets. In fact, sugar beet alcohol is a popular choice for producing a wide range of products, including distilled spirits such as white spirits, bitters, liqueurs, and of course, beet vodka.
Beets, particularly sugar beets, are rich in fermentable sugars, which can be converted into alcohol through the process of fermentation. Fermentation is a natural process in which yeast or bacteria consume the sugars in a substance and produce alcohol as a byproduct. In the case of beets, the sugars are extracted from the vegetable and then fermented to produce alcohol.
To make alcohol from beets, the first step is to extract the sugars from the vegetable. This can be done by crushing or grinding the beets and then boiling them to release the sugars. The resulting liquid is then cooled and mixed with yeast, which initiates fermentation. The yeast consumes the sugars in the liquid and converts them into alcohol, creating a beet-based alcoholic beverage.
The fermentation process typically takes several days to complete, during which time the yeast converts the sugars into alcohol. Once fermentation is complete, the liquid is distilled to separate the alcohol from any impurities or unwanted flavors. Distillation involves heating the liquid and collecting the evaporated alcohol, which is then condensed back into a liquid form.
Sugar beet alcohol, being an extra neutral alcohol, is colorless and odorless. This is because during distillation, impurities and flavors are removed, resulting in a clean and neutral spirit. This makes sugar beet alcohol an ideal base for producing a variety of spirits, as it does not overshadow or alter the flavors of other ingredients used in the production of distilled beverages.
One popular use of sugar beet alcohol is for the production of beet vodka. Beet vodka is made by distilling sugar beet alcohol multiple times to achieve a high level of purity and smoothness. The resulting vodka can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for cocktails and mixed drinks.
In addition to vodka, sugar beet alcohol can be used as a base for other distilled spirits such as white spirits, which are often used in the production of gin and other clear spirits. It can also be used to create bitters, which are flavoring agents used in cocktails, and liqueurs, which are sweetened spirits infused with various flavors.
Personal experience: As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to work with sugar beet alcohol in the production of various spirits. I have found that the neutral and clean characteristics of sugar beet alcohol make it a versatile ingredient that allows other flavors to shine through. Whether it is in the production of beet vodka or other distilled spirits, sugar beet alcohol provides a solid foundation for creating high-quality and flavorful beverages.
The production of alcohol from beets is not only possible but also yields a versatile and neutral base spirit. Sugar beet alcohol can be used in the production of a wide range of spirits, from vodka to bitters and liqueurs. Its colorless and odorless nature allows it to enhance and complement other flavors without overpowering them. So, if you're looking to experiment with unique and flavorful spirits, consider giving beet alcohol a try.