A short history of vodka

If you’re wondering what the most consumed spirit in the world is, you’ve come to the right place. Vodka tops that chart, sitting far ahead of the runner-up – rum.

Russia, Poland and Ukraine are responsible for most of this consumption, but given that vodka is the national drink of Russia and Poland (as well as Finland), it should come as no surprise.

In fact, most Nordic and Baltic countries (alongside Russia, Poland, Ukraine and Belarus) all comprise the Vodka Belt – but vodka is made and enjoyed all around the world.

Despite its widespread popularity as a spirit to be consumed both neat and mixed, there are still many widely held misconceptions about this beverage – most notably that vodka is supposed to be flavorless, odorless and colorless.

In this lesson, vodka expert Monique Farah gives a short history of vodka and busts these myths to explain the often underrated intricacies that make vodka so special.

What you'll learn in the A short history of vodka lesson

• A short history of vodka
• Common misconceptions about vodka