As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Smirnoff vodka is not made with potatoes. While the association of vodka with potatoes is common, it is actually quite rare to find vodkas made from this starchy tuber.
The popularity of wheat-based vodkas like Absolut, Smirnoff, and Grey Goose can be attributed to the smooth and clean taste they offer. Wheat provides a neutral and subtle flavor profile, making it a popular choice for vodka production. These brands have perfected the art of distilling vodka from wheat, resulting in a consistently high-quality product.
Belvedere, on the other hand, is made with rye. Rye-based vodkas are known for their distinct flavor profile, often characterized by a hint of spiciness. Belvedere has capitalized on this unique taste and has garnered a loyal following among vodka enthusiasts.
While potatoes can be used to make vodka, the process is not as common due to several reasons. Firstly, potatoes have a high starch content, which requires additional steps in the production process to convert the starch into fermentable sugars. This can be time-consuming and adds complexity to the overall production.
Additionally, potatoes have a distinct flavor that can be challenging to remove during distillation. This can result in a vodka with a heavier and earthier taste, which may not appeal to all consumers. Wheat and rye, on the other hand, offer a more neutral base, allowing for greater flexibility in flavor profiles.
While I do not have personal experience with Smirnoff vodka specifically, I have tasted a wide range of vodkas made from various grains. Each grain imparts its own unique characteristics to the final product, resulting in a diverse and exciting array of flavors.
To summarize, while the association of vodka with potatoes is common, most popular vodka brands like Absolut, Smirnoff, and Grey Goose are made with wheat, while Belvedere is made with rye. The choice of grain plays a significant role in the flavor profile of the vodka, with wheat providing a neutral taste and rye adding a hint of spiciness. While potatoes can be used to make vodka, their high starch content and distinctive flavor make them less common in the production process.