Can you make vodka without using malted barley?

Yes, you can make vodka without using malted barley. While malted barley is a traditional ingredient in vodka production, it is not necessary. Vodka can be made from any starch-based material that can be fermented, such as potatoes, corn, wheat, or even grapes.

The process of making vodka without malted barley is similar to the traditional method. The starch source is first milled and mashed with water to convert the starches into sugars. The resulting liquid is then fermented with yeast, which converts the sugars into alcohol. The alcohol is then distilled to purify it and remove impurities.

Vodka made without malted barley can have a different flavor profile than traditional vodka. It may have a sweeter or more neutral taste, depending on the starch source used. However, it is still considered to be vodka, as it meets the legal definition of being a distilled spirit made from fermented grain or potatoes.

Some popular brands of vodka that are made without malted barley include:

- Absolut (made from wheat)

- Smirnoff (made from corn)

- Belvedere (made from potatoes)

- Grey Goose (made from wheat)

- Ketel One (made from wheat)