This Eastern European spirit is the most default hard liquor on Earth.  Its origins lie somewhere between Poland and Russia, and a long-standing dispute exists over which nation can claim credit for its invention.  Vodka is the purest distillation of beverage alcohol, diluted to a potable proof.

Vodka can be made with any number of grains, fruits and vegetables, so long as the sugar necessary for fermentation is present.  While ostensibly “pure”, variations in the manufacturing process and trace congeners give some vodkas distinct characteristics.  The finished spirit is often infused with flavors from other fruits and vegetables, through filtering and soaking.

Purists drink vodka chilled and neat.  However, its general lack of flavor (and ease of infusion) make it an ideal base spirit for crafting cocktails.