It is speculated that Poland was the first country to have produced the spirit which we now call Vodka (or Wodka as it is pronounced in Poland). The name translates from Polish literally as “little water”, and in support of the claim that Poland is the origin of this spirit are documents referencing the word ‘vodka’ from the Palatinate of Sandomierz (an administrative unit of local government) in Poland from 1405. As well, the first written usage of the word Vodka in the Russian language appears to be from 1533 in reference to a medicinal drink which was being brought to Russia from Poland by Kiev Merchants. The Etymology is far from certain, but is certain is that we can place vodka firmly into the traditions of Slavic culture up to five hundred years ago.
Wyborowa (pronounced Vee Bow Row Va) Vodka is an authentic Polish Vodka made from 100 per cent Rye grain. The grain is grown in the Pozan region of Poland, and it is initially distilled in small local agricultural distilleries into a raw spirit. This raw spirit is further refined at the Wyborowa modern rectification plant in Pozan where it is processed through a three column continuous still to reach the desired level of purity. Water from a deep ground aquifer is used to bring the spirit to 40 % abv.
Wyborowa Exquisite is the Premium version of Wyborowa Vodka and it is produced in Turew, which is a single estate distillery in Western Poland. It is distilled using 100 % Dankowslie Slote Rye Grain. The Wyborowa Exquisite has been my Vodka of choice for several years now. However, now that I am beginning to experiment a little with Vodka spirits I thought I should put my favourite Wyborowa Vodka through the paces of my review methodology to see how it compares to the other Premium Vodka Samples I have recently received.
Here is an excerpt from my review:
“…A mellow rye-like heat is present in my throat after I swallow. I detected no bitterness, only a very light aftertaste which is of rye spice, and a delicate gin-like flavour of piny citrus. A nice beginning….”
You may read the full review here:
Please enjoy the review, and the cocktail suggestion (The exquisite Blue lemon Martini) at the end. Cheers!
The Nemiroff’ Vodka Company introduced the Nemiroff Original Vodka in 1999, and it is now available in over 25 countries world-wide. The Vodka is wheat based and (according to the Nemiroff website) includes the addition of the caraway seeds, and honey in its production. I was given a sample bottle by Igor Kashkan, the local Importer of Nemiroff. I was told by Igor that although this vodka is not labeled as a Premium Vodka, the company believes that their Nemiroff Original is an outstanding product nonetheless.
The Rum Howler Blog 