Flavored vodka is made by adding botanicals to the vodka during the distillation process. Botanicals are plant-based ingredients that impart different flavors and aromas to the vodka. These botanicals can include fruits, herbs, spices, and even flowers.
The first step in making flavored vodka is to start with a base vodka. This vodka is typically made from either grain or potatoes, and it goes through a fermentation and distillation process to create a neutral spirit with a high alcohol content. This neutral spirit serves as a blank canvas for adding flavors.
Once the base vodka is ready, the botanicals are added during the distillation process. There are two main methods for doing this: maceration and vapor infusion.
Maceration involves soaking the botanicals directly in the vodka. The vodka and botanicals are combined and left to steep for a period of time, allowing the flavors to infuse into the liquid. This method is commonly used for fruits and herbs, as it helps to extract the essential oils and flavors from the ingredients.
Vapor infusion, on the other hand, involves placing the botanicals in a separate chamber above the vodka during distillation. As the vodka is heated, the alcohol vapor rises and passes through the botanicals, picking up their flavors and aromas. This method is often used for more delicate botanicals, such as flowers or spices, as it allows for a more subtle infusion of flavors.
Once the distillation process is complete, the flavored vodka is then filtered to remove any impurities and ensure a smooth and clean taste. Some vodka makers may choose to distill their flavored vodka multiple times to achieve a higher level of purity and refinement.
It is worth noting that not all flavored vodkas are made using the same methods. Some vodka makers may choose to use artificial flavorings or additives instead of natural botanicals. These artificial flavorings can be added directly to the vodka, bypassing the distillation process altogether. While this method may be more cost-effective, it can result in a less authentic and nuanced flavor profile.
Flavored vodka is made by adding botanicals to the vodka during the distillation process. Whether through maceration or vapor infusion, these botanicals infuse the vodka with unique flavors and aromas. The final product is then filtered to remove impurities, resulting in a smooth and flavorful vodka.