Is Tito's actually handmade?
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to study and experience the intricacies of spirit production. With regards to the California lawsuit against Tito's vodka, I must say that the term “handmade” is subjective and open to interpretation.
The lawsuit claims that Tito's vodka cannot be described as “handmade” because it is distilled in a large industrial complex with modern, technologically advanced stills. While it is true that Tito's is produced in a facility that utilizes these advancements, it does not necessarily negate the handmade aspect of the vodka.
When we think of something being handmade, we often envision a small-scale operation where every step of the process is done by hand. However, in the realm of spirits production, the term “handmade” can have a broader definition.
To truly understand whether Tito's can be considered handmade, we need to delve into the production process. Tito's vodka is made from corn, which is milled and then cooked to create a mash. This mash undergoes fermentation, where yeast is added to convert the sugars into alcohol. The resulting liquid, known as distiller's beer, is then distilled.
In the case of Tito's, they employ pot stills for distillation. These stills are indeed modern and technologically advanced, allowing for more efficient and precise distillation. However, the use of pot stills does not automatically disqualify a spirit from being considered handmade.
While Tito's may produce and bottle their vodka in extremely large quantities, it is important to note that the term “handmade” does not necessarily imply small-scale production. Handmade can refer to the level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into the production process. Even on a large scale, there can still be a human touch involved in the creation of the spirit.
I have personally visited large distilleries where the production lines are indeed massive, but there are still skilled workers involved in monitoring and managing the process. These individuals play a crucial role in ensuring that quality is maintained throughout the production.
Ultimately, the question of whether Tito's can be considered handmade is a matter of interpretation. While the lawsuit argues that the use of modern stills and large-scale production disqualifies Tito's from being handmade, it is important to consider the broader context of the term.
In the world of spirits, the term “handmade” can encompass a range of production methods and scales. It is not solely dependent on the size of the operation or the use of modern equipment. Rather, it is about the level of care, craftsmanship, and attention to detail that goes into creating the final product.
Without further information, it is difficult to definitively determine whether Tito's can be classified as handmade. However, it is clear that the term is subjective and open to interpretation. Ultimately, consumers must decide for themselves whether they believe Tito's vodka meets their personal criteria for what constitutes a handmade spirit.