Developed to meet demand for alternative base materials, this expression departs from the traditional wheat and rye formulation associated with Stolichnaya, instead using maize as its primary raw ingredient. Production remains centred in Latvia, where modern distillation systems are used to maintain consistency while adapting to a different fermentation substrate. The use of maize alters both the fermentation dynamics and the resulting spirit profile. Compared to grain blends, maize produces a slightly softer and more rounded base, with a naturally mild sweetness. Fermentation is conducted under controlled conditions to ensure efficient alcohol conversion while limiting unwanted by-products that could affect clarity.
Distillation takes place in continuous column stills, allowing for multiple rectification stages. This produces a highly purified spirit, removing most congeners while retaining a subtle base character derived from the maize. The aim is to achieve a clean and accessible profile while differentiating slightly from standard grain-based vodkas. Filtration is carried out using a combination of quartz sand and activated charcoal. This process refines the spirit further, smoothing the texture and removing trace impurities. As with other expressions in the range, filtration is controlled to preserve a degree of mouthfeel rather than pushing the spirit to complete neutrality. Water used for dilution is carefully purified to ensure consistency and to avoid introducing mineral flavours. The final vodka is bottled at standard strength, with a focus on clarity, smoothness, and a clean finish.
Although labelled as gluten free, it is worth noting that all properly distilled vodkas are inherently free from gluten proteins due to the distillation process. In this case, the designation reflects both the choice of maize as a raw material and the positioning of the product within a specific consumer segment. The overall profile is slightly softer and less grain-driven than the traditional Stolichnaya style, offering a smoother and more rounded interpretation of neutral vodka.
Tasting Notes
Nose:
Clean and light, with a faint sweetness and very subtle maize character. Minimal alcohol sharpness, with a soft and neutral aroma.
Palate:
Smooth and rounded, with a gentle sweetness and a clean profile. The texture is soft, with very little grain intensity and a mild, approachable character.
Finish:
Short to medium, with a clean fade and a slight sweetness lingering briefly. Smooth and uncomplicated, with minimal warmth.
