National Vodka Day – October 4
Every year on October 4th, we raise a glass to one of the greatest spirits out there – vodka. Vodka is a clear, distilled alcoholic beverage, originating from Russia, Poland, and Sweden. It became popular because it was cheap to produce and historically made from readily available raw materials: mostly cereal grains, like rye and wheat. Potatoes were used in years to follow, as they were also easily available and affordable produce.
Prior to World War II, vodka was consumed almost exclusively in Russia, Poland, and Sweden. After the war, it spread across the world and into the United States. A businessman named John Martin partnered with a Russian boutique named Smirnoff turned the liquor into the American sensation that it is today.
The process is a pretty simple one, compared to many other liquors, and the full breakdown can be found here, but it is basically combining a few ingredients, fermenting the base, straining, distilling, filtering, diluting, and bottling.
While vodka is not what we are known for, we sure know what makes a good one. We offer two of the smoothest vodkas East Tennessee has to offer. Our 80 proof Dumplin Creek vodka is handmade by our master distiller and pairs perfectly with just about anything. Our Tuckaleechee vodka has a bit of a bolder flavor. At 45% alcohol by volume, this velvety smooth spirit is produced in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains and is made from heirloom blood corn.
Whether you’re getting in touch with your European roots and sipping on some vodka on the rocks or you’re making Instagram-worthy drinks and adding any sort of flavor or garnish to your drink, starting with the right vodka makes all the difference. If you’re looking for the perfect vodka staple, you’ll want to stock your shelves with our 40% alcohol by volume Dumplin Creek. If you’re a bit on the wilder side and are looking for a bold but smooth finish, we’d suggest our Tuckaleechee vodka – but know that you can’t go wrong with either.
When it comes to good booze, we only know the best. Stop by our Kodak, TN distillery for free samples or $5 cocktails every day. You can test out both brands of vodka we carry and decide what you’ll drink on National Vodka Day and any other day that ends in “y”.
