Vodka FAQ

You got questions? We got answers!

What is vodka?

I know you know it's alcohol, but it's not just a shot you took in college while being peer pressured. It's so much more than that! Vodka is a distilled alcoholic beverage that is typically made from fermented grains, like corn, or potatoes. It's traditional description is a "clear and colorless spirit with a high alcohol content," but modern iterations of the spirit are much more complex. Different grains and even different water sources offer different nuances to the final product.

How is vodka made?

The process of making vodka involves fermenting a base ingredient (such as grains, potatoes, fruits, or anything with sugar) to convert the sugars into alcohol. The resulting liquid is then distilled multiple times to purify and concentrate the alcohol, followed by filtration to remove impurities. Finally, water is added to bring the vodka to the desired alcohol strength. In simple terms. But the sky is the limit!

What are the most common ingredients used to make vodka?

The most common ingredients used to make vodka include grains like corn, wheat, rye, potatoes, and barley. However, like I said above, vodka can be made with anything with sugar, including sugar itself!

What is the alcohol content of vodka?

Vodka typically has an alcohol content of 40% ABV (alcohol by volume), which means it is 40% pure alcohol and 60% water. That's why water is so important in the creation of vodka. Vodkas made with mineral-rich water, like Red Rocks Vodka, have a smoother flavor and silkier mouthfeel than other vodkas.

Does vodka have a flavor?

Vodka is known for its neutral flavor profile. Good-quality vodkas should have a clean and crisp taste with little to no distinctive flavor, allowing it to blend well with other ingredients in cocktails. But...there are many distilleries that like leaving their vodka with a little something, something. To each their own. Red Rocks Vodka is very smooth and neutral with a very slight vanilla citrus flavor.

Can vodka be consumed neat or on the rocks?

Hell yeah! If the vodka is good quality, it can be consumed neat (straight) or on the rocks (over ice). You can drink vodka any which way you please. The only rule is that you enjoy it because, otherwise, what's the point?

What are some popular vodka cocktails?

I have put vodka in everything. It is so stinking versatile. It goes with literally anything and sometimes the best way to find something special is to experiment! Some popular vodka cocktails include the Martinis, Cosmopolitans, Moscow Mules, Bloody Marys, and Vodka Tonics.

Is Vodka good for a party?

Vodka is a must for a party! Since it's so versatile, it's perfect for a variety of preferences. And especially, if you have picky friends, versatility is key! It's so simple to batch delicious drinks with vodka. You may be tempted to batch with the cheapest vodka you can find, but if you want your friends to come to your next party, find one that is high quality AND affordable. High quality spirits have more filtration which improves the way you feel the next day. Red Rocks Vodka is a great choice for batching cocktails since it's neutral, high-quality, and reasonably priced. You'll also have the benefit of having a conversation starter about where you got such a unique spirit. And every party could use a conversation starter!

How should vodka be stored?

Vodka should be stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. It does not require refrigeration, but if you prefer your vodka chilled, you can store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Keep in mind that it is possible to freeze vodka if you're using a deep freezer, so a regular freezer is preferred.

Does the price of vodka indicate its quality?

The price of vodka can vary widely, and while there are some expensive premium vodkas, a higher price doesn't always guarantee better quality. The taste and quality of vodka can be subjective, so it's best to try different brands and find one that suits your preferences.

What are some famous vodka brands?

There are numerous vodka brands available worldwide. But it's much cooler to support unique, small vodka brands like Red Rocks Vodka. Some well-known vodka brands include Absolut, Smirnoff, Grey Goose, Belvedere, Ketel One, and Tito's Handmade Vodka. They're big corporations and won't bring that special touch to your cocktails.

Remember to enjoy vodka responsibly and in moderation.