When Russia invaded Ukraine the world changed.
Within weeks my local hotel filled up with fleeing refugees & Ireland – quite rightly – opened it’s doors to care for those escaping war & destruction.
Businesses also boycotted Russia – for a while – as I read with much disgust Pernod Ricard has chosen to resume supplying Russia.
Ireland offering a welcome home for Ukrainian refugees whilst one of it’s biggest brands – Jameson – is on sale in Russia just doesn’t sit well with me.
I’ll be boycotting Pernod products while they continue this ludicrous decision.
Meanwhile in the Baltic countries there was a bit of a backlash.
A Finnish hotel chain is boycotting Pernod while Swedish Absolut Vodka is not allowing it’s product to go to Russia.
In recognition of that move I thought a long overdue look at Absolut was in order.
I’m not particularly a fan of vodka myself. Generally a fuller flavoured spirit is what excites my palate. Preferably without additional additives other than those provided by the raw ingredients, production methods & barrel ageing regime employed by the manufacturers or blenders.
Vodka is the antithesis of this. Usually distilled to a clear, colourless & almost flavourless spirit thereby making it an ideal mixing base for cocktails – in which vodka excels.
Absolut Vodka does have the feel of new make spirit to my palate however. There’s a bit of oiliness, hints of fresh spirit & a touch of alcoholic warmth about – but very little else.
Nothing much for me here.
Absolut Lime at least provided a welcome flavour – although the citrusy freshness did come across a tad artificial to me, even when Absolut states natural ingredients are used.
I still preferred Absolut Lime as a better drinking experience though.
Both these bottles were acquired for my WSET L2 Spirits Award – Wine & Spirit Education Trust – a few years ago.
The Award gave me a broader look, appreciation & understanding of the various spirit categories out there – many of which I’d never previously tried.
It also honed down which categories I actually enjoyed & gave an explanation as to why.
Vodka isn’t a category I’d gravitate to – but it’s interesting to explore.
I also admire Absolut’s anger at Pernod Ricard’s decision to resupply Russia & support the fuss they made in halting their product being supplied there against their multinational owners wishes.
If only Jameson would do the same.
Sláinte
Sweden backlash against resupplying Russia article here.
Baltic boycott reverses Pernod Ricard decision on resupplying Russia Absolut Vodka here.
WSET website here.
#BoycottPernodRicard on twitter here.
Image sources are credited & linked under the photos.
All bottle shots authors own.
WestmeathWhiskeyWorld 