When one thinks of vodka, countries such as Russia, Poland, and Sweden may come to mind. However, in recent years, a new player has emerged in the world of vodka production – England. Yes, you read that right. Vodka made in England has been gaining popularity and recognition for its quality and unique characteristics.
Historically, England has not been known for producing vodka. The country has long been associated with gin, thanks to the popularity of London Dry Gin. However, in the past decade, English distillers have been experimenting with vodka production, using locally sourced ingredients to create high-quality spirits that rival their counterparts from better-known vodka-producing countries.
One distillery that has been at the forefront of this movement is Chase Distillery, located in Herefordshire. Chase Distillery was founded in 2008 by William Chase, who first gained recognition for his award-winning Tyrrells Potato Chips. With a background in farming, Chase decided to turn his attention to distilling, using the potatoes grown on his farm to create a unique and distinctly British vodka.
Chase Vodka is made using a traditional copper pot distillation method, with each bottle produced from scratch on the farm. The result is a smooth and creamy vodka with notes of vanilla and black pepper, perfect for sipping neat or mixing in cocktails. Chase Distillery has garnered numerous awards for its vodka, earning a reputation as one of the top vodka producers in England.
Another distillery making waves in the world of English vodka is Silent Pool Distillers, based in Surrey. Silent Pool Vodka is made using locally sourced spring water from the Silent Pool, a beautiful natural spring in the Surrey Hills. This crystal-clear water is blended with a wheat-based spirit and distilled in small batches using a unique 24-hour slow distillation process. The result is a smooth and crisp vodka with hints of citrus and spice, ideal for those looking for a clean and refreshing spirit.
Aside from Chase and Silent Pool, there are several other distilleries across England producing high-quality vodka. One such example is Ramsbury Vodka, made at the Ramsbury Estate in Wiltshire. Ramsbury Vodka is created using winter wheat grown on the estate, combined with water sourced from the Ramsbury River. The vodka is distilled in a copper pot still and charcoal filtered to produce a clean and velvety spirit with a subtle sweetness.
So what sets English vodka apart from its Russian or Polish counterparts? One key factor is the use of locally sourced ingredients. English distilleries take pride in using produce from their own farms or nearby suppliers, ensuring a fresh and authentic product. Furthermore, English vodka tends to be more artisanal, with smaller batch sizes and a focus on quality over quantity. This attention to detail results in vodkas that are complex and flavorful, with subtle nuances that set them apart from mass-produced brands.
In addition to the high quality of English vodka, the country’s rich distilling heritage and growing reputation in the spirits world have contributed to the rise of vodka made in england. With a long history of gin production and a newfound interest in craft spirits, England has become a hub for innovative and creative distillers looking to make their mark on the industry. This vibrant and dynamic landscape has created a fertile ground for vodka producers to experiment and push boundaries, resulting in a diverse range of styles and flavors.
As English vodka continues to gain recognition and accolades on the international stage, it is clear that the spirit has come a long way from its humble beginnings. With distilleries such as Chase, Silent Pool, and Ramsbury leading the way, vodka made in england is poised to become a force to be reckoned with in the world of premium spirits. So next time you reach for a bottle of vodka, consider trying one made in England – you may be pleasantly surprised by the quality and craftsmanship of these homegrown spirits.