Sunday, September 20, 2009

ONE for ALL

       Vodka is a curious drink: colorless, odorless, and almost tasteless. From the basic description, it should be rolling at the bottom of the drinks list. And yet, it's the most popular spirit on the planet-1 out of 4 drinks in the world is vodka or contains vodka. And it's exactly this neutral aspect that makes vodka a favorite amongst bartenders,allowing them to mix up infinite styles of concoctijons to mesmerize the customers.
       As we got a bit mature, and wiser, we started to appreciate the different pleasures in life. And getting to know our drinks is one of them. Out of a sea of vodka-based drinks, a few cut through the clutter and rise to the top of the drinks list. One of which is Ketel One.
       Hailed from the "Capital of Spirits"-Schiedam, Holland-ketel One has a rich history that propelled the name to its current-day recognition. Back in the day, due to its location, climate and water quality, Schiedam was the home of Genever, the granddaddy of Gin. In 1691,Joannes Nolet settled in Schiedam and established the Nolet Distillery, where today became Holland's distilling center. Generation after generation, the Nolet's recipes have been passed down the line. It endured multiple government prohibitions and two world wars. It not only prevailed, but also was refined and rooted firmly in quality. And, in 1979, as Carl Nolet Sr. (10th generation) became the Nolet Distillery's chairman, he revived his ancestors' recipes and techniques and thus, a new spirit was born: Ketel One Vodka.
       Some like it pot
       While most vodka is made from potatoes, rye, or mixed grain,Ketel One uses 100% wheat,which conjures up more flavor and body in the content. When it comes to producing vodka, two methods are at hand here. First, and what most brands use, is column stills (sometimes also called continuous stills). It's an automated, high-volume, stainless steel distiller that pours out large quantities of vodka to a desired strength, and then it'sbottled and ready for happy hour. Ketel One doesn't stop there. it continues on to a second stage-pot stills. This method creates a range of liquid differentiation that gives the vodka a particular character. Post still is a time-consuming and stringent process that also requires more personal involvement-constant monitoring by a master distiller. It is then always purified through a slow filtration system to kick out any unwanted toxins, and further refined to a crisp and sophisticaed profile.
       Usually, the front and back end of every batch is discarded,due to too much or little share of alcohol content and cubstance. Only themiddle protion is bottled, resulting in an ultra-premium vodka that not only has character, but also personality.
       Today, Ketel One attracts and converts more and more fans around the world and especilly in the U.S. Top bartenders, restaurateurs, and connisseurs are brought forward to taste-test Ketel One, allowing it to be risen to high ranks without bias or misconception. Over the last 10 years, Ketel One has achieved record-breaking sales and honored with a multitude of recognitions. Its demand continues to grow everywhere,enticing new palates every day. So, should you next time call out for a cocktail or a shot with friends, throw the bartender a question that'll surely give you a nod of acknowledgment:

       "Have you got Ketel One back there?"

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