Produced under the Stolichnaya name, this citrus expression builds upon a production model that combines traditional grain distillation with controlled flavour infusion. While historically associated with Russia, modern production is largely carried out in Latvia, where distillation and blending are managed to maintain consistency across the range. The base spirit is derived from wheat and rye, fermented to produce a clean alcohol wash before undergoing multiple column distillations. This process results in a high-purity neutral spirit, with minimal congeners and a smooth, consistent structure. Unlike some vodkas that rely heavily on filtration, the emphasis here is on distillation quality, reducing the need for excessive post-processing. Filtration is still applied, typically using quartz sand and charcoal, to remove remaining impurities and refine texture. The resulting vodka retains a light grain character while remaining clean and approachable.
The citrus lemon variant is created through post-distillation infusion using natural lemon flavour extracts. This method allows for precise control over intensity and balance, ensuring that the citrus profile remains bright without becoming overly sharp or artificial. The formulation focuses on lemon peel and zest characteristics rather than juice-like sweetness, maintaining a relatively dry profile. Water used for dilution is carefully treated to ensure purity and consistency, contributing to a smooth mouthfeel. The final spirit is bottled at standard strength, with the citrus elements integrated to complement rather than overpower the base vodka.
Unlike traditional flavoured spirits produced through maceration and redistillation, this approach prioritises clarity and reproducibility. The result is a citrus-forward vodka designed for versatility, particularly in mixed drinks where a clean lemon profile is required.
Tasting Notes
Nose:
Fresh lemon zest leads, with bright citrus oils and a slight peel bitterness. A light grain note sits beneath, clean and unobtrusive.
Palate:
Crisp and smooth, with clear lemon character dominating. The citrus is sharp but controlled, balanced by a subtle sweetness and a neutral ????it base.
Finish:
Short to medium, with lingering lemon peel and a faint dryness. Clean and refreshing, with minimal residual warmth.
