Which spirit is known for being clear and often neutral in flavor?

Vodka is known for being clear and often neutral in flavor, which is one of its defining characteristics. The production process of vodka typically involves the distillation of fermented materials such as grains, potatoes, or even fruits, leading to a spirit that is distilled multiple times. This distillation process strips away many of the original flavors, resulting in a clean-tasting spirit that can be enjoyed straight or used as a base in various cocktails.

This neutrality allows vodka to blend well with a range of mixers and flavors, making it a versatile choice in the spirits category. While other spirits can also be clear, they tend to have more pronounced flavors—such as gin, which is characterized by its botanical notes and distinctive taste derived from juniper berries and other herbs and spices. Similarly, tequila has a clear variety but is inherently flavored by the blue agave from which it is made, and schnapps often features added flavors, making them less neutral compared to vodka.