The Science of Smooth: Why Sugarcane Vodka is the Next Big Thing in Spirits

Sugarcane vodka is a type of vodka that is made from sugarcane juice rather than the more commonly used grain-based ingredients such as wheat or corn. It is produced by distilling fermented sugarcane juice to create a clear, high-proof spirit that is then diluted with water to bring it to the desired alcohol content.

Sugarcane vodka is considered a premium spirit, and is often marketed as being smoother and more premium than other types of vodka. The taste and character of sugarcane vodka can vary depending on the specific production methods used, as well as the type of sugarcane used.

In addition to its use as a popular cocktail ingredient, sugarcane vodka is also used in cooking and baking as a flavoring, particularly in tropical-themed dishes. Overall, sugarcane vodka is a unique and versatile spirit that has gained popularity for its distinctive taste and premium reputation. So, get out your bar tools and get ready for a new experience.

Why is Sugarcane Vodka Smoother?

The smoother taste of sugarcane vodka compared to grain-based vodka is believed to be due to several factors, including the type of sugar used, the production process, and the natural impurities present (or absent) in the sugarcane juice.

Sugarcane juice used to make sugarcane vodka is naturally sweet, and has a unique flavor profile that is different from the more neutral-tasting grains used to make grain-based vodka. The distillation process used to make sugarcane vodka is also different from that used for grain-based vodka, and often involves a multi-step distillation process that helps to further refine the spirit and remove impurities.

Additionally, sugarcane juice naturally contains impurities and flavor compounds that are not present in grains, which can contribute to the smoother taste of sugarcane vodka. These impurities can include trace elements of minerals, as well as natural oils and other flavor compounds that are present in the sugarcane.

Overall, the combination of the type of sugar used, the distillation process, and the natural impurities present in the sugarcane juice all contribute to the smoother taste of sugarcane vodka compared to grain-based vodka.

Acidic or Alkaline: What’s the Ideal pH for Vodka?

The pH level of vodka can have an impact on its quality and flavor profile. In general, vodka is distilled to a high proof and then diluted with water to bring it to the desired alcohol content. The pH of the water used for dilution can have a significant impact on the final product.

If the pH level of the water used for dilution is too low (acidic), it can impart an unpleasant taste to the vodka, causing it to taste sour or metallic. On the other hand, if the pH level of the water is too high (basic), it can result in a vodka that tastes soapy or slippery.

The ideal pH range for water used in the dilution of vodka is between 6.5 and 7.5, which is considered neutral. This range helps to preserve the natural flavor and aroma of the vodka, and also helps to maintain its overall quality and smoothness.

It’s worth noting that the pH of vodka can also be affected by other factors, such as the type of ingredients used in the production process, the quality of the water used for dilution, and the storage conditions of the finished product. Proper pH control and quality assurance measures are therefore important to ensure that the final product is of high quality and meets the desired standards.

All All Vodkas Gluten Free?

Most vodkas are gluten-free, as they are typically made from either corn, potatoes, or sugarcane, which are all gluten-free grains. Distilled spirits, such as vodka, are highly processed, and the distillation process itself removes any gluten proteins that may be present in the original grain. This means that most vodkas are safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities to consume.

However, it’s important to note that some vodkas may be made from wheat, barley, or other gluten-containing grains, so it’s always best to check the label or contact the manufacturer to confirm if a specific brand of vodka is gluten-free. Additionally, some flavored vodkas may contain gluten-containing additives, so it’s important to check the ingredient list for any potential sources of gluten.

Overall, most vodkas are considered gluten-free, but it’s always best to check the label or contact the manufacturer to be sure. If you have celiac disease or are gluten-sensitive, it’s important to take extra precautions to ensure that you are consuming only gluten-free products.

What Makes a Vodka Premium or Ultra-Premium?

The terms “premium” and “ultra-premium” are often used to describe the quality and price of vodka, but there is no standard definition or regulated criteria for these terms. In general, premium and ultra-premium vodkas are considered to be higher quality and more expensive than standard vodkas.

Some factors that may contribute to a vodka being considered premium or ultra-premium include:

1. Quality of ingredients: Premium and ultra-premium vodkas are often made from high-quality ingredients, such as: pure spring water, sugarcane juice and premium grains or potatoes.

2. Aging process: Some premium and ultra-premium vodkas may be aged in oak barrels to impart additional flavor and complexity to the spirit.

3. Price: Premium and ultra-premium vodkas are often significantly more expensive than standard vodkas.

It’s worth noting that the terms “premium” and “ultra-premium” are subjective and can vary greatly depending on the brand and the consumer. What one person considers premium or ultra-premium may not be the same for another person. Ultimately, the distinction between premium and ultra-premium vodkas depends on a variety of factors, including quality, reputation, and price.

Some attributes of  so-called “premium” or “ultra-premium” vodkas to avoid:

1. Distillation process: Premium and ultra-premium vodkas are often distilled multiple times to produce a smoother, more refined spirit. The “number of times distilled” claim on some vodka brands is just ridiculous, and in most cases meaningless. Ultra-premium brand, Gray Goose is distilled one time. What does that tell you about the “number of times distilled” claim? Between 1 and 4 distillations is acceptable; anything more is a gimmick and should be avoided.
2. Packaging and branding: Premium and ultra-premium vodkas are often packaged in high-quality, eye-catching bottles, and are marketed as luxury products. If you are buying a vodka for the bottle design, no problem. However,  you may wish to manage your expectations about the bottle’s contents. Quality vodka is not synonymous with fancy bottle design.
   Also, vodka should be crystal clear. If a vodka bottle is tinted or shaded to obscure its clarity, you may wish to keep walking down the aisle and choose another brand that’s not shy about letting you see its clarity for yourself.
3. Aging process: Some premium and ultra-premium vodkas may be aged in oak barrels to impart additional flavor and complexity to the spirit. “Aged” vodka ceases to be vodka in our view. 

Sales of Vodka Continue to Lead all Spirits Categories

based on data from the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS), the vodka category has been consistently growing in the United States in recent years. In 2020, the vodka category accounted for over a quarter of all distilled spirits sales in the United States, with total sales estimated to be over $7 billion.

It’s worth noting that this figure is likely to have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has had a significant impact on the hospitality and beverage industries. However, despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the vodka category has remained relatively resilient and continues to be a popular spirit in the United States.

Overall, the demand for vodka in the United States remains strong, and it continues to be one of the most popular types of distilled spirits in the country.