Vodka is a clear, colorless, unaged
liquor "made from
ethyl alcohol from agricultural origin". It was originally made in
Russia from
potatoes, but today's vodka, which is almost odorless and tasteless, is usually made from
grain, primarily
barley and
wheat, and occationally from
rye.
Vodka is integral to many
cocktails such as the
Screwdriver,
Bloody Mary and Vodka
Martini. If served straight, it should always be icy-cold.
Flavored vodkas have become popular in the
United States and may be flavored with anything from
fruits to hot
peppers. Some flavored vodkas are even sweetened slightly.