Vodka or Gin
- WOGO
- Dec 22, 2025
- 2 min read
Vodka and gin, two clear, strong spirits that may look similar, but they have distinct differences that make each unique. Understanding the differences is important to know what spirit to use for your next cocktail!!
Vodka
Vodka is distilled from fermented crops like grains (for example wheat), potatoes, or sugar beet molasses. Historically Vodka was a drink that was only known to Estern European and Scandinavian countries, due to the high availability of grains and potatos. The more severe climate also meant that grapes for wines were harder to grow which is directly linked to why those regions were known for it. Traditional origins influence the base: Russian vodka often uses wheat, while Finnish vodka relies on barley. The main characteristics of vodka is it's purity and neutrality. The liquid goes through multiple distillations and charcoal filtering to remove impurities and flavors. This neutral profile allows vodka to blend seamlessly in cocktails without overpowering other flavors, which is why classics like Martinis, Bloody Marys, Moscow Mules, and Cosmopolitans which use vodka as their base.
Gin
Gin starts with a similar neutral spirit but adds an essential botanical favors, the most commonly used are juniper berries, alongside other botanicals like citrus peels, coriander, cardamom, and angelica during distillation. This infusion process gives gin its distinctive aromatic and flavorful complexity. Originating in 17th century Holland as a medicinal remedy, gin offers a fragrant and botanical-forward profile. Unlike vodka, gin is typically enjoyed at room temperature to fully appreciate its aroma. Classic gin cocktails include the Tom Collins and Negroni, where fruit juices and bitters heighten the botanical flavors.
In essence, vodka serves as a smooth, flavorless canvas for cocktails, while gin offers an aromatic and complex experience driven by botanicals, especially juniper. Knowing this can help you choose the right spirit for your cocktail adventure, whether you prefer the crisp neutrality of vodka or the fragrant character of gin. This clear distinction makes each spirit perfect for different tastes and thats why it is commonly used in cocktails world.
On a cocktail walk with WOGO many drinks use harder spirits are their base, if you don't know what cocktail you would like to choose, or just simply tired of getting the classics, go bar hopping with WOGO and enjoy 3 hand crafter drinks in 3 different bars!!
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