Something a little more interesting than a lager this week – although I must confess much of the novelty comes from the shape of the bottle.

Still, Debowa isn’t too bad of a vodka – it’s not as ‘clean’ tasting as some top-shelf liquors, but it does have miles more character.

Transcript

Hello, this is DrinksAhoy and this… is Beverage Guide Express.

In this episode, we’re covering Debowa Military Vodka.

It’s a Polish vodka, with a distinctive cartridge-shaped wooden bottle containing a glass insert within.

At 40 percent alcohol by volume, this vodka is typical export strength.

The spirit is manufactured by Debowa Polska, based in Wolsztyn, Poland.

The name Debowa translates from the Polish for ‘Oak’ – hence the wooden bottle, and addition of a piece of oak wood to every bottle.

Debowa were founded in 1982, although for much of their history they produced plum brandy, only adding Vodka to their roster a couple of years ago.

Their main vodka is sold as ‘Oak Vodka of Poland’, available in a variety of styled bottles – or in plain glass one should you eschew novelty.

Polish Plum 40% is Debowa’s flagship non-vodka brand.

There’s little to say about the vodka’s appearance: it’s absolutely clear, with nary a hint of colour.

Its aroma is similarly basic: difficult to discern anything other than alcohol without tasting.

What flavour is there is subtle – a fruity warmth, with a hint of spice and woodiness.

Slightly diluted, the flavours open up, revealing notes of vanilla and a fruity spruce of black elderberry.

With the right mixer, these undertones shine through, and give Debowa a character unlike a mass-produced vodka.

It might not be as smooth as some top-shelf varieties – and the bullet-shaped bottle is nothing but a novelty: but nevertheless this oaken Polish vodka – is of a surprisingly good calibre.

Thanks for watching, and join me next time for a popular cider from Hereford.

Until then – cheers!