Vodka, traditionally distilled from grains or potatoes, has evolved into a versatile spirit crafted from a variety of unique ingredients. In India, the burgeoning interest in premium and craft spirits has led to the introduction of vodkas made from unconventional bases. This article explores some of these distinctive vodkas available in the Indian market, along with their approximate prices.
Corn-Based Vodka
Corn imparts a subtle sweetness to vodka, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture. In India, brands like Rahasya Vodka utilize high-quality corn and wheat grains sourced from Punjab to create a crisp and refreshing spirit. Priced around ₹2,000, Rahasya offers notes of citrus, pear, and white pepper, making it suitable for both sipping and mixing in cocktails.
Rye-Based Vodka
Rye lends a spicy and robust character to vodka. Belvedere Vodka, a renowned Polish brand, is crafted from Polska rye and distilled four times, adhering to traditional methods. It offers a velvety texture with hints of vanilla and white pepper. In India, Belvedere is available at approximately ₹5,151 for a 700 ml bottle.
Apple-Based Vodka
While not yet widely available in India, apple-based vodkas are gaining attention globally for their crisp and fruity profiles. As the Indian craft spirits industry grows, there is potential for local distilleries to experiment with apples, especially from regions like Himachal Pradesh, to produce such innovative vodkas.
Potato-Based Vodka
Potato vodkas are known for their robust and earthy flavors. In the Indian market, brands like Magic Moments have gained popularity. Introduced in 2006, Magic Moments has received over 36 international awards for its enticing taste and packaging. It is priced around ₹950 for a 750 ml bottle.
Honey-Based Vodka
Honey imparts floral and sweet nuances to vodka. In India, distilleries in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh are exploring honey-based spirits, utilizing local honey varieties to create vodkas with distinctive sweet and floral notes. These spirits are ideal for refreshing summer cocktails.
Quinoa-Based Vodka
Quinoa, a super grain, offers a light and toasty flavor profile when used in vodka production. Although quinoa-based vodkas are not currently prevalent in India, the increasing health consciousness among consumers presents an opportunity for distilleries to innovate with this gluten-free ingredient.
Whey-Based Vodka
Whey, a byproduct of cheese production, can be distilled into vodka with creamy textures and subtle vanilla notes. Given India’s substantial dairy industry, there is potential for local production of whey-based vodkas, offering a sustainable and unique addition to the market.
Maple Sap-Based Vodka
Maple sap imparts gentle sweetness and light caramel aromas to vodka. While maple-based vodkas are uncommon in India, local distilleries could explore using indigenous sweeteners like palm sap or jaggery to create spirits with similar flavor profiles, catering to consumers seeking novel taste experiences.
Summing Up
The Indian spirits market is witnessing a shift towards premium and craft vodkas made from diverse ingredients. As consumer preferences evolve, there is ample opportunity for distilleries to innovate with unconventional bases, offering unique flavors and experiences to discerning drinkers.
