Finland Loses Out in Vodka Dispute
Image: YLE
The European Parliament has voted on the definition of vodka. According to the ruling, vodka can be distilled from any agricultural raw material provided the country of origin is mentioned on the label. A more traditional definition, favoured also by Finland, failed to gain support.
The approved ruling affects strong spirits and the definition of vodka in particular.
Vodka has been a keen issue of debate for a long time within the EU. The traditional vodka countries of Northern and Eastern Europe have wanted to protect their traditional potato and grain recipes. Countries in the south of Europe want to use grapes, which would make the process cheaper.
Now the compromise decision, backed by EU agricultural ministers, means vodka can be produced from other than traditional recipes if they are clearly labelled.
YLE