Vodka

The history and significance of vodka - from tradition to modern spirit
Translated, vodka means “water” or “little water”. And the spirit lives up to this name. Because no other distillate in the world is as pure and clear. This high-proof drink, which ideally has an alcohol content of 40% by volume, is also wrong if it is simply dismissed as “ liquor made from potatoes” from Russia. Especially as this is not true at all. The first written mention of vodka dates back to 1405 - and it comes from the former Kingdom of Poland. Vodka was already being produced back then. Not only in Poland, by the way, but also in Russia. However, the raw material for distillation was originally not potatoes, but rye. This was because there was an abundance of it in both countries, which were characterized by agriculture. Gradually, other types of grain came into play - or rather into the distillery for production.

It was only when several failed harvests led to a shortage of grain in Eastern European countries, where the almost odorless distillate spread quickly, that vodka also began to be distilled from potatoes. However, potato vodka is actually an exception these days. Rye is now standard again in the variants from Russia and Ukraine, although other types of grain such as wheat, potatoes and molasses are also permitted as the main ingredient. In Scandinavian countries such as Sweden and Norway, winter wheat is often used. And in France, some manufacturers even produce their vodka from grapes. This is possible because according to European Union statutes, fruit is also permitted as a base for vodka here. However, grain continues to play the central role in Eastern European countries and Russia, which are considered to be vodka cradles. Here, the spirit, drunk neat, is something of a national drink, enjoyed on social occasions as well as before, during and after meals. It is also enjoyed as a friendly toast.

Traditionally and culturally, the production of this special distillate has become an integral part of the countries of origin. But over the past few decades, vodka has conquered the whole world with its velvety smooth and pure taste. Because that is the big difference to other products: The spirit is distilled not just once, but several times. Five to seven times is the standard here. Some versions, such as the Russian Standard, are distilled an impressive 200 times. The real secret, however, lies in the filtration. This is what gives vodka its inimitable smooth and pure character, which you can always clearly taste - despite the often quite high vol%. Vodka can be filtered using cellulose or activated charcoal. However, there are also earth filtration or filtration processes using diamond dust.

Trends and innovations in the vodka market
It is precisely these elaborate filtration processes that have had a significant influence on the vodka market in recent years. With their enormous quality standards, they complete the variety of vodka worldwide. These products are an ideal addition to the high-quality standard versions for the food retail trade and are therefore ideal for specialist stores as well as for the upmarket bar scene and gastronomy. It doesn't always have to be Smirnoff for everyone. Falvoured vodka is also becoming increasingly popular. Here, ingredients such as fruit (e.g. citrus fruits or berries), ginger, cinnamon, vanilla, coconut or honey are added to the otherwise rather neutral-tasting spirit. These variants are particularly suitable for mixed drinks such as cocktails or pre-mixed RTDs (Ready to Drink), which are especially attractive for wholesalers and international suppliers.

While established brands continue to rely on tradition, innovation is more likely to be found in small companies and distilleries that focus on unusual craft vodkas in order to find their niche in the market. Either way, production is at a high level. And whether it's a small insider tip or a globally renowned brand, more and more producers are taking up the cause of sustainability. From organic ingredients to energy efficiency during distillation, a lot is possible here. In addition, more and more alternative packaging to glass bottles is coming onto the market - such as lightweight aluminum cans.

(Inter)national vodka producers at ProWein
With PRODAL 94 SRL from Romania and Noblewood Limited from Cyprus, ProWein has once again been able to attract two well-known premium suppliers of the extra class as exhibitors at ProSpirits. It is worth taking a closer look at the new products here. A visit to the stand of NO.1 Wine & Spirits GmbH can also be worthwhile, as the company will be presenting its Swedish Vodka not in a bottle but in a bag-in-box, which is particularly interesting for bar operators and restaurateurs. What's special about ProWein 2025 is that, for the first time, the exhibitors come from 20 countries.

This provides a very skillful overview of the different product styles from all over the world. Whether it's Poland, Slovakia, Armenia, Ukraine, Norway, Finland, Great Britain, the Netherlands, Germany, Cyprus or even China and Australia - the most important countries in vodka production are represented as well as real exotics. The best way to get an initial overview of all exhibitors is to visit the product page beforehand. There you will also find all the contact information you need to make an appointment in advance during ProWein 2025.

Vodka tastings and events at ProWein - experience, discover, enjoy
Of course, you can also taste the various new spirits directly on site at each exhibitor. This allows you to get your own impression of the vodka tradition as well as the current trends and find out whether the respective products suit your business. Important producers and key players on the market are practically and efficiently brought together for you in one place at ProSpirits in Hall 5. Guided tastings will also be held at the bar in Hall 5 and, where appropriate, at the exhibitors' premises. You can find the exact dates from around mid-February in the program section. Our spirits expert Jürgen Deibel will also be offering specific tours on various topics with the Visitor Tour Spirits. Make a note of the dates in your calendar!