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What Alcohol is Made From Potatoes? Answered (2024)

What Alcohol is Made From Potatoes

Last Updated on February 24, 2024 by Lydia Martin

You might be surprised to learn that alcohol can be made from potatoes.

In fact, potato-based alcohol has been distilled for centuries as a way to make vodka and other spirits.

Here’s a look at what alcohol is made from potatoes and some cool facts about vodka and alcohol in general.

What Alcohol is Made From Potatoes?

Pouring Tito's Vodka on a glass

The most notable kind of alcohol made from potatoes is vodka.

Though sometimes considered an inferior base ingredient, potato-based spirits like vodka still exist and are great.

In history, vodkas are traditionally distilled from fermented grains and potatoes.

Potatoes are rich in starch, which can be easily converted to sugar and fermented to become alcohol. [1]

Some other types of spirits that are produced from potatoes are gin and beer, though there are only a handful of brands available.

Are All Vodka Brands Made From Potatoes?

sack of potatoes

Only three percent of the world’s vodka is made from potatoes. The commonly based ingredients in today’s vodkas are grains such as rye, barley, and wheat.

Some other popular base ingredients for vodkas include honey, corn, rice, beets, and fruits like grapes and apples.

“For me, it’s the quintessential food spirit.”

– Brent Lamberti, Global Brand Ambassador for Stolichnaya Elit

Technically, vodka can be distilled from almost everything starchy or sugary.

In Poland, some vodkas are even produced by fermenting crystal sugar and yeasts.

What Vodka is Made From Potatoes? 

distilling copper still

Here are some notable brands you must try:

  • Chopin Potato Vodka
  • Zodiac Vodka
  • Karlsson’s Gold Vodka
  • Woody Creek Distillers Potato Vodka
  • Murlarkey Divine Clarity Vodka
  • Born & Bred Potato Vodka
  • Vesica Vodka
  • Chase Original Potato Vodka
  • Luksusowa Vodka

Potato-based vodkas are known to have more fleshy mouthfeel than grain-based vodkas and are often associated with earthy and nutty flavor notes. 

Potato vodka is best served neat or on the rocks.

What Makes Potatoes Ideal For Alcohol-Making?

vodka on a jar and potato on top

Potato is the fourth most cultivated food crop on the planet, and there are over 5,000 different potato breeds.

Aside from being abundant, potato is high in starch to be converted into sugar to ferment alcohol.

Potato alcohol is a neutral spirit that is clear and odorless with a slightly creamy texture and silky smooth taste.

Vodkas can be distilled from sugary and starchy raw materials; potato is a good example. 

FAQs Related to What Alcohol is made from Potatoes?

What type of alcohol is made from potatoes?

Alcohol made from potatoes is commonly known as potato vodka, which is a type of vodka distilled from fermented potatoes.

How is potato vodka different from other types of vodka?

Potato vodka differs from other types of vodka, such as grain vodka, in its raw material. Instead of grains like wheat or rye, potato vodka is made from potatoes, giving it a distinct flavor and texture.

What are the characteristics of potato vodka?

Potato vodka is known for its smooth and creamy texture, with subtle earthy and nutty flavors. It’s often described as having a slightly sweet and rich taste compared to grain vodka.

Is potato vodka gluten-free?

Yes, potato vodka is naturally gluten-free since it’s made from potatoes, making it a suitable option for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Can I use potato vodka in cocktails?

Yes, potato vodka can be used in a variety of cocktails, including classic vodka-based drinks like martinis, cosmopolitans, and vodka sodas, as well as other creative concoctions.

Where is potato vodka produced?

Potato vodka is produced in various regions around the world, including Russia, Poland, Sweden, and the United States, where potatoes are readily available and commonly used for distillation.

Are there different brands of potato vodka available?

Yes, there are many brands of potato vodka available, each with its unique production methods, flavor profiles, and packaging. Some popular brands include Chopin, Karlsson’s Gold, and Luksusowa.

What are the advantages of using potatoes to make vodka?

Using potatoes to make vodka offers advantages such as a naturally gluten-free product, a smooth and creamy texture, and the potential for unique flavor characteristics compared to grain-based vodkas.

Can I make potato vodka at home?

Making potato vodka at home is possible but requires specialized equipment and knowledge of distillation processes. It’s essential to follow safety guidelines and legal regulations when distilling alcohol at home.

Key Takeaways

Alcohol is often thought of as made from grapes or grain, but it can also be made from potatoes. 

Potatoes are vegetables with a high amount of starch. When potatoes are fermented, the starch is converted into sugar, which is then converted into alcohol.

Potato-based alcohols tend to be sweeter and less harsh than those made from other sources.

Potato vodka is one of the most popular types of potato-based alcohol. 

If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional spirits, consider trying a potato-based option.

Reference

  1. https://www.britannica.com/science/fermentation
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