Vodka has many uses beyond being a main ingredient in cocktails. It is a spirit that's revered for its smoothness, purity, and versatility. Behind each premium vodka bottle is a carefully crafted process, especially when it comes distillation and filtering--two essential pillars in vodka creation.

Which process produces the best vodka? You can choose between a vodka that has been "distilled seven time" or one that is "filter-polished to smoothness".

This blog will debunk the myths and explore in detail these questions.

Understanding Distillation

The distillation process is the basis of premium vodka. The process involves heating a liquid to vapor, then cooling it to liquid to separate the ethanol. This technique is essential for the production of alcohol, but it also determines the smoothness and flavor of vodka.

Distillation and Vodka Quality

Distillation's primary goal is to refine vodka by removing impurities such as methanol and fusel oils. These compounds can spoil the taste of the vodka or cause a bad hangover. The more vodkas are distilled, there is more opportunity to remove impurities.

This does not mean, however, that "the more the better" is always true. The over-distillation of vodka can remove its unique flavor profiles, particularly when it is distilled using high-quality grains and potatoes. Finding the right balance between pureness and character is the real art.

Types of Stills, their Impact

Vodka can be distilled in one of two different types of stills.

1. Pot Stills: Popular with craft distillers and used in small batches, pot stills preserve flavours. Although they are not as efficient at column stills as they could be, the subtleties that they leave behind can enhance the taste of vodka.

2. Column Stills: Column (or continuous stills) are highly regarded and ideal for producing ultra-clean vodkas at large quantities. The column stills are more precise and produce a product that is exceptionally pure without the labour-intensive pot distillation process.

As a sign of quality, brands often display the number of distillations (e.g. "distilled five time"). It's important to remember that the number only tells part of the tale. The skill of the distiller and the choice of raw materials have an equal impact on the final product.

Exploring Filtration Techniques 

Filtration is the next step after distillation to refine vodka. This polishes and removes any remaining impurities, resulting in a smooth, almost silky vodka.

Charcoal Filtration 

The charcoal filtration technique is one of the more popular ones used by vodka producers. After distillation, vodka is passed over activated charcoal which acts as a sponge to remove unwanted compounds.

The result is a smooth, pure vodka without any residual flavor. Charcoal’s molecular structure bonds impurities, leaving behind only the purest alcohol.

Grey Goose and Ketel one are well-known for their charcoal filtration process, which is designed to enhance flavour and texture.

Filtering Quartz or Diamond

Some vodka brands use more elaborate filtration methods, like filtering through diamond or quartz dust. Although it may sound luxurious, the aim is similar to that of charcoal filtration: to target microscopic particles and create an ultra-smooth alcohol.

Other Filtration Techniques 

The reverse osmosis or sand filtering methods are also effective in removing specific elements, such as mineral residues.

Silver and platinum filters are an interesting addition to the modern filtration techniques. They claim to enhance the vodka's taste by adding subtle metallic notes.

Distilled or Filtered? Which is more important?

The ultimate question is: should you be focusing on the number of times vodka has been distilled, or its type of filtration?

Both processes are crucial. This is how they each contribute to the quality of premium vodka:

• The distillation process is the most important step in the production of a spirit that is free of harsh impurities. It is likely that the distillation process has been flawed if vodka tastes harsh.

• Filtration refines the process by polishing any remaining imperfections, giving the vodka a smooth finish.

Filtration can take vodka to a new level. While distillation is the key, it's not enough. Imagine the two processes as a dance. The distillation process is the beat, and the filtration adds the melody to take the spirit to a new level.

The Perfect Dance of Science and Art

When choosing a premium vodka you often look at the harmony of distillation and filtering. The base of a well-distilled vodka is already clean and flavourful. Filtration polishes this base to ensure a luxurious drinking environment.

Knowing how vodka is made will help you appreciate the quality of each bottle, whether you're making the perfect martini or a Sunday Bloody Mary.

When you browse premium vodkas next time, be sure to pay attention to the distillation and filtering details on labels. You might even want to do a comparison taste. You'll be amazed at the way these processes change the essence of vodka.