What is the legal requirement for a spirit to be labeled 'vodka' in the US?

To be labeled as 'vodka' in the US, a spirit must be distilled to at least 190 proof. This high proof indicates that the spirit is distilled to a level that minimizes impurities and allows for a clean, neutral character typical of vodka. Vodka is characterized by its lack of distinct flavor, aroma, or color, which is achieved through this high-proof distillation process.

The requirement for a minimum distillation proof helps ensure that vodka maintains its identity as a neutral spirit and does not present strong flavors attributable to lower-quality distillation methods. While vodka can have flavor additives, such as fruit or spices, those are not necessary for it to meet the legal definition, and aging in wooden barrels is not a requirement for vodka; in fact, it is typically not aged at all. Therefore, the distillation proof is a fundamental characteristic that aligns with the definition of vodka in regulatory terms.