Vodka

Polish rye vodka leads this shelf, next to American craft vodka and a Japanese rice vodka from Kissui.

36 items

Vodka questions

What's the difference between vodka and gin?

Both start as a neutral spirit distilled from grain, potatoes or other raw materials. Vodka is bottled after filtering and diluting, with as little flavor as possible. Gin takes that neutral spirit and redistills or infuses it with juniper berries, which must be the dominant flavor, plus botanicals like coriander, citrus peel and angelica root.

Does vodka expire?

No. Unopened vodka keeps indefinitely. Once opened, it stays good for years if the cap is tight and the bottle is kept away from heat and direct sunlight. Over a very long time, a little alcohol can evaporate and the taste can flatten slightly, but it won't go bad. Flavored and cream vodkas are the exception and should be used within a year.

Does vodka contain sugar?

Plain, unflavored vodka has no sugar, carbs or fat. A 1.5 ounce shot has about 97 calories, all from alcohol. Flavored vodkas can be different, since some add sugar or syrups along with the flavoring. If you're counting sugar, check the label or stick with unflavored vodka and a sugar-free mixer.

What is vodka made from?

Vodka can be distilled from almost any fermentable ingredient. Most is made from grain, usually wheat or rye, and Poland and Russia have long traditions of rye vodka. Potato vodka is creamier, and there are also vodkas made from corn, which are naturally gluten free, as well as grapes, rice and even milk whey.