The whole process
How is vodka made?
Vodka is made from fermentable starch or sugar, usually grain or potatoes. A mash is fermented, distilled multiple times, and usually filtered, until what remains is pure, almost flavorless alcohol, which is finally diluted to drinking strength.
From raw material to mash
At the start is a raw material that provides starch or sugar. In Eastern Europe this is usually rye, wheat, or potatoes, in France sometimes grape residues, in the USA often corn. Some smaller distilleries also use sugar beets or whey, as long as enough fermentable sugar or starch is present. The EU Spirit Drinks Regulation (EU) 2019/787 allows almost any agricultural raw material for vodka, but requires labeling if it doesn't come from grain or potatoes.