You've likely tasted a variety of vodkas, but have you ever tried one made from whey? I hadn't until now. Thanks to my PR friend representing Broken Shed Vodka, I had the chance to experience something completely new and exciting. This unique spirit hails from the pristine landscapes of New Zealand and is a pretty unique product in the vodka market. It's not just the creamy texture and subtle sweetness that'll intrigue you, but also the fact that it comes from the southern hemisphere, evoking a different story than the vast majority of American and European vodkas available right now. Having a sip of this vodka is like experiencing a piece of New Zealand's natural beauty - crisp, clean, pure, but with a unique twist that takes a moment to figure out exactly what's going on.
A Dairy-based Vodka?
As most of you guys know, vodka production typically involves fermenting and distilling sugars derived from grains like corn, wheat, rye, or even potatoes. I'd heard of whey - mostly from the classic nursery rhyme and it's use in protein supplements. What I didn't realize is that the liquid whey that is a byproduct of cheesemaking, also contains a significant amount of lactose / milk sugars along with the protein.
Broken Shed Vodka uses this process for its sugars, which the yeast converts into alcohol. In this process, lactose in the whey is fermented using specialized yeast strains that can break down milk sugars. The fermented whey is then distilled multiple times to create a clean and pure vodka.
Using whey instead of traditional grains offers unique benefits and qualities. Whey-based vodka is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. The lactose fermentation also produces a subtle sweetness and a creamy mouthfeel, setting it apart from grain-based vodkas that can sometimes have a spicy mouthfeel.
Additionally, by utilizing whey, a distillery can promote sustainability by repurposing a dairy byproduct that might otherwise go to waste.
What to Know About Whey-Based Vodka: Ultimate Talking Points
Need a little bit of help so you can impress your friends on the next guys night out? Here's the TLDR for whey-based vodka production ...
- Unique Ingredient: It's made from fermented whey, a dairy byproduct, instead of traditional grains or potatoes.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally free from gluten, ideal for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
- Sustainable Production: Repurposes whey, reducing waste and promoting environmentally friendly practices.
- Distinct Flavor Profile: Offers a subtle sweetness and creamy texture not found in grain-based vodkas.
- Pure Water Source: Often combined with pristine water sources—in Broken Shed's case, pure New Zealand spring water—for a clean finish.
About Broken Shed Whey Vodka
Broken Shed Vodka, crafted in the scenic surroundings of Lake Wanaka in New Zealand, embodies a unique approach to vodka production. This premium spirit stands out due to its use of whey, a by-product of cheese-making, combined with pure spring waters from the Southern Alps and the North Island. Launched in 2010 by a team of two New Yorkers and a local New Zealander, Broken Shed has quickly gained a reputation for its purity and smoothness. The bottle itself exudes a feeling of simplicity and refinement, with an image of a broken shed set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Southern Alps, enhancing the experience before you even open it.
Tasting Notes
When enjoyed neat and chilled, Broken Shed Vodka reveals a delightful complexity. Soft hints of fresh mint, anise, and vanilla greet the palate, while subtle notes of almond and a gentle sweetness create a smooth, warm finish. This vodka’s clean and crisp taste carries a refreshing purity reminiscent of the New Zealand landscape. While excellent on its own, it also shines in cocktails, adding a pure, natural kick without overpowering the other ingredients. Whether sipped straight or mixed, Broken Shed is a versatile and exceptional vodka.
Fresh Mint and Herbal Undertones
Broken Shed Vodka opens with soft, fresh mint notes that immediately evoke a sense of clean, crisp freshness. These herbal undertones provide a delicate lift to the overall profile, making the vodka feel light and invigorating on the palate. This subtle mintiness complements the spirit’s smooth texture, giving it a refreshing quality that lingers after each sip.
Vanilla and Almond Sweetness
As the initial freshness gives way, a gentle sweetness emerges, characterized by light vanilla and almond flavors. These flavors are soft and balanced, adding a smooth richness to the vodka without overwhelming its clean nature. The almond notes, in particular, bring a faint nuttiness that contributes to the spirit’s warm and comforting finish.
Smooth and Warm Finish
The finish of Broken Shed Vodka is where its craftsmanship truly shines. The subtle hints of sweetness from the vanilla and almond evolve into a beautifully smooth, warm sensation that leaves a lasting impression. It’s this well-rounded, gentle warmth that makes Broken Shed such an enjoyable sipping vodka, elevating it beyond the typical spirit experience.
This Is A Vodka For Conossiours!
So there you have it, folks. Broken Shed Whey Vodka is a game changer, blending creamy sweetness with a sustainability ethos. Its unique whey base delivers a silky texture and a subtle, unforgettable flavor. It's not your ordinary vodka - it's better. Perfect for cocktails or a quiet sip, it's a tribute to New Zealand's natural beauty.
While this spirit will certainly serve well alongside your more well known brands to make a martini or vodka cranberry, I feel like it's best use is to sip and enjoy neat. In the past, vodka was simply a mixer but with the changing sophistication of the spirits market, products like this beg to be enjoyed with the same level of respect that we pay to a fine whiskey or mezcal.
While I can certainly understand that some fans of vodka may not like this ... it is a different experience that will be disruptive for folks who identify brands like "Titos" as their top-shelf choice. For others, like myself who enjoy exploring the nuances of spirits produced with different methods and traditions, this product is a privilege that deserves to be enjoyed with friends. You could even set up a vodka tasting flight as part of your next guys trip and hide the bottle but ask your buddies to do a blind taste test.
Broken Shed has national distribution so you can find it in major retailers like Binny's, Total Wine, and through Drizley as well. Priced at $35.99, it is certainly going to be something that folks expecting a cheap spirit may pause at (for instance, Titos, Belevedere, and Grey Goose are all below $30 for a 750ml bottle). Don't let that stop you though, the experience of trying something new is worth it.
