Standard Stateside Vodka vs. Flavored Products
It is critical to differentiate between Stateside's pure, unflavored vodka and its line of ready-to-drink (RTD) products, such as the Stateside Vodka Soda. While the Urbancraft Vodka is meticulously distilled to a point of zero sugar, the flavored products incorporate additional ingredients. For example, the Stateside Vodka Sodas are made with real fruit juice, which contributes a small amount of sugar. This distinction is crucial for consumers monitoring their sugar intake, whether for dietary restrictions, health reasons, or personal preferences.
The Distillation and Filtration Process
Stateside Urbancraft Vodka is crafted in Philadelphia and undergoes a rigorous production process to achieve its renowned purity and smooth finish.
- Distillation: The vodka is distilled seven times from 100% US corn in a custom copper pot still. This multi-stage distillation process is designed to remove impurities and refine the alcohol, contributing to its clean taste. The repeated distillation ensures that any sugars from the original corn base are fermented and separated from the final spirit.
- Filtration: Following distillation, Stateside uses a proprietary, ultra-cold filtration system. This process chills the vodka to sub-zero temperatures to remove any remaining impurities and further enhance its smooth character. Some traditional vodkas rely solely on activated carbon, but Stateside's advanced filtration contributes to a distinctive polish.
- Proofing Water: Stateside uses a unique proofing water formula, developed over two years, that includes electrolytes. This mineral-enhanced water contributes to the vodka's specific flavor profile and smooth mouthfeel, and is a key part of their unique process.
A Closer Look at Stateside's Product Line
To avoid confusion, here is a breakdown of the nutritional content across different Stateside products. The critical factor for sugar content is whether the product is a pure, unflavored spirit or a pre-mixed cocktail. Stateside ensures that its canned beverages, even with added fruit juice, contain no added sugar beyond what is naturally present in the juice.
Comparison Table: Stateside Urbancraft Vodka vs. Vodka Sodas
| Feature | Stateside Urbancraft Vodka | Stateside Vodka Soda (e.g., Black Cherry) |
|---|---|---|
| Sugar Content | 0 grams | 2 grams (from real fruit juice) |
| Carbohydrates | 0 grams | 2 grams |
| Calories | 94 calories per 1.5 fl oz | 95 calories per 12 oz can |
| Gluten-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Kosher Certified | Yes | Yes |
| Base | Distilled from 100% US corn | Stateside Vodka, real fruit juice, and sparkling water |
The Ketogenic Diet and Stateside Vodka
For individuals following a ketogenic diet, the zero-sugar, zero-carb nature of the standard Stateside Urbancraft Vodka makes it a suitable alcoholic beverage option. Since vodka's calories come solely from the alcohol itself, it does not interfere with the low-carb requirements of a keto diet. However, it is essential to use a sugar-free mixer, such as soda water or diet tonic, to maintain a strict ketogenic lifestyle. Any of Stateside's flavored products, including the Vodka Sodas, would not be compliant with a strict keto diet due to their carbohydrate and sugar content, however minimal.
Conclusion
In summary, the answer to the question, "Does Stateside Vodka have sugar?" depends entirely on the product in question. The flagship Stateside Urbancraft Vodka, like other properly distilled unflavored vodkas, contains no sugar, no carbohydrates, and is gluten-free. The fermentation and distillation process purifies the spirit to the extent that it contains only alcohol and water. However, the company's line of pre-mixed Stateside Vodka Sodas and other flavored beverages contain sugar and carbs from real fruit juice. Consumers should always check the label, especially with flavored spirits, to verify sugar content and make an informed choice based on their dietary needs.
Can you provide a list of sugar-free mixers suitable for pairing with Stateside Urbancraft Vodka?
Absolutely. For a zero-sugar cocktail, you can mix Stateside Urbancraft Vodka with a variety of options, including soda water, diet tonic water, diet cranberry juice, zero-sugar energy drinks, or a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice. This allows for a customized drink without adding unnecessary sugar or calories. You can also explore low-calorie flavored sparkling waters to add a hint of flavor without sugar.
