Chubrovka

Chubrovka, also known as Żubrówka, is a dry, herb-flavored vodka distilled from rye and traditionally flavored with bison grass (Hierochloe odorata). The grass imparts a distinctive flavor and aroma, often described as having notes of vanilla, coconut, almond, and hay. The name "Żubrówka" derives from the Polish word "żubr," meaning bison, as bison are known to graze on the grass used to flavor the vodka.

The vodka is typically bottled with a single blade of bison grass inside, which serves as a visual identifier of authenticity and further enhances the flavor infusion. It is traditionally produced in Poland and Belarus, although it is now produced and marketed in other countries as well.

Chubrovka is commonly consumed neat, chilled, or mixed in cocktails. A popular mixed drink is Tatanka (also known as a Szarlotka), which combines Żubrówka with apple juice. The spirit has a long history and a distinctive cultural association, particularly in Eastern Europe. Different producers may use slightly varying production methods and bison grass sources, leading to subtle variations in flavor profiles. It is often considered a distinct category of flavored vodka, recognized for its unique taste and connection to its regional origins and the bison grass herb.