Starka
Starka is a traditionally spiced grain vodka from Poland , Belarus and Lithuania .
production
Starka is made from unrectified rye spirit that is matured in old barrique barrels with small amounts of linden or apple leaves. The manufacturing process is similar to that of whiskey . Many types of Starka are sold, differing mainly in the length of time they mature, which can last from 5 to 50 years. The only Starka manufacturer in Poland was Polmos Szczecin until production was discontinued in 2010 as part of the bankruptcy proceedings . The oldest Starka in his range is over 50 years old and the youngest is 10 years old. Each Starka contains 50% alcohol (exception: Starka matured for 10 years, 40% alcohol) and tastes somewhat hot and spicy with an intense aroma. The older it is, the more intense the color.
history
Starka has been known in Poland and Lithuania since at least the 15th century and has been one of the favorite drinks of the Szlachta (Polish nobility) and an integral part of Sarmatian culture since the 17th century . Traditionally, when his child was born, the landlord filled a huge amount of vodka into a barrique , sealed it with beeswax and buried it until the child was married. Due to the process of aging, this vodka was a particularly tasty one, which was called Starka (the old man).
In the late 19th century, various production companies simplified the manufacturing process somewhat and adapted it to the needs of mass production in the JA Baczewski Company . After the end of the First World War and the re-establishment of Poland and Lithuania, the Starka remained one of the most popular spirits in both countries.
After the Second World War, Starka production in Lithuania was continued by the Vilniaus degtinė and Stumbras factories in Kaunas. In Poland, all spirits manufacturers were nationalized after the war and the only Starka manufacturer remained until production was discontinued in 2010 as part of insolvency proceedings, while Polmos Szczecin , which mostly sold the Starka as an expensive export good.
In various countries (e.g. Lithuania, Bulgaria , Kazakhstan , Russia and Latvia), vodka is now produced using a similar recipe, mostly made from a mixture of agricultural alcohol and a herbal tincture .