VodkaVodka - Bison grass

Bison Grass Vodka

Bison grass vodka is historically rooted in the Białowieża Forest of eastern Poland and Belarus, where the European bison (Żubr) grazes on sweet grass (Hierochloe odorata) containing the compound coumarin, which was traditionally infused into local grain vodka as a folk preparation. Żubrówka, first documented commercially in the 16th century, was banned in the United States from the 1950s until 2010 because coumarin—in concentrated form—was classified as a food additive hazard; the American version substituted artificial flavoring until the ban was lifted. The blade of bison grass in every bottle of Żubrówka is the most iconic piece of in-bottle spirit marketing in the world.

Flavor Profile

Bison grass vodka is defined by the delicate, hay-like sweetness of coumarin, which registers on the palate as freshly cut grass, vanilla, almond, and a faint coconut note. The grain base—typically rye—contributes a gentle spice that complements the botanical without overwhelming it. The finish is softly sweet and herbal, markedly different from unflavored vodka and closer to a light botanical spirit than a neutral base.

Key Producers

other

Żubrówka

Grasovka

Bak's

There is no formal EU geographic indication for bison grass vodka as a category; it is produced and sold as a flavored vodka under standard EU vodka regulations (minimum 37.5% ABV). The Żubrówka trademark is held by CEDC International and its production is tied to Poland, though the bison grass designation is not legally protected as an exclusive appellation.