Understanding the White Claw Vodka Production
To fully appreciate the craftsmanship behind White Claw Premium Vodka, it's essential to understand its production process. The answer to how many times is White Claw vodka distilled is a straightforward five times. However, the journey to becoming a "smooovest" spirit involves much more than just the number of distillations. The Mark Anthony Group, which owns the White Claw brand, has invested nearly a decade into developing a unique vodka-making process.
The Double-Barrel Process: Distillation and Filtration
The creation of White Claw's premium spirit is a two-pronged approach that focuses on both distillation and a patented filtration method. First, the spirit begins with 100% American grain, selected for quality. It is then distilled five times in column stills, which use copper plates to aid in the purification process. This repeated distillation is a crucial step in removing impurities, resulting in a cleaner and purer spirit.
Following the distillation, the spirit undergoes a proprietary "Triple Wave Filtration" process. This method, named for the immense pressure involved (equal to three 30-foot waves), is designed to smooth the vodka's texture. Finally, the liquid is filtered through activated carbon, derived from charred coconut shells, to remove unwanted aromas and further polish its character before bottling.
Comparing White Claw Vodka and Hard Seltzer
Many consumers know White Claw primarily for its hard seltzers, which is a different product entirely. The alcohol base of the seltzer is derived from fermented sugars, not distilled grain. Understanding this distinction is key to appreciating the premium nature of the vodka. The table below outlines the key differences between the two products.
| Feature | White Claw Premium Vodka | White Claw Hard Seltzer |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol Base | Distilled from 100% American Grain | Fermented sugars and malted grains |
| Production Method | Distilled five times; Triple Wave Filtered | Fermentation, clarification, and filtration |
| Flavor Profile | Subtly complex, smooth, notes of citrus and grain | Flavored with fruit essences, light and crisp |
| ABV (Alcohol by Volume) | 40% (80 proof) | 5% (US market) |
| Product Type | Distilled Spirit | Flavored Malt Beverage (FMB) |
The Importance of Distillation and Filtration
In the world of vodka, the number of distillations is a frequent point of marketing. However, the quality of the raw ingredients and the effectiveness of the filtration are arguably more significant for the final product. With White Claw Premium Vodka, the five-times distillation process is combined with the novel Triple Wave Filtration, using activated carbon from charred coconut shells, to achieve its specific character.
This intricate process is what allows White Claw to claim a high level of smoothness while still retaining a minimal but complex flavor profile, with subtle notes of citrus and grain. A vodka's smoothness and mouthfeel are directly influenced by the number of times it is distilled and the type of filtration used, as these steps remove impurities that can cause a harsh burn. For a more detailed look at the general art of vodka production, you can explore resources like the Wine & Spirit Education Trust's blog post on the topic.
The Final Product: A Smooth, Clean Spirit
The entire process culminates in a spirit designed to be exceptionally smooth and clean. The five-times distillation ensures a high degree of purity, while the Triple Wave Filtration refines the vodka at a molecular level. This makes it versatile for cocktails but also pleasant enough to be sipped neat or on the rocks. The emphasis on smoothness is what the brand hopes will define its new entrant into the premium spirits market.
Conclusion
In summary, White Claw Premium Vodka is distilled five times from 100% American grain. This is a critical detail that distinguishes it from the malt-based White Claw hard seltzers. The spirit's production is further refined by a unique Triple Wave Filtration and activated carbon filtering using coconut shells, which work in tandem to create a remarkably smooth and clean finish. By focusing on both multiple distillations and innovative filtration techniques, White Claw has created a premium vodka that offers a distinct and elevated drinking experience.
