Spirytus Starodawny is a Polish rectified spirit with an ABV of 95%, bottled in a 0.5-litre format by CEDC International. Spirytus Starodawny contains 95% alcohol, is made from the finest grains and is rectified four times. This is one of the highest concentration levels attainable in a potable spirit.
The brand belongs to the portfolio of the group behind Spirytus Staropolski, and the producer is CEDC International, headquartered in Oborniki, with its Polmos Białystok division. The product is based on a neutral grain rectified spirit of agricultural origin. Rectified spirit is a potable spirit usually bottled at 95% ABV, being the direct product of rectification, i.e. the purification process. Multiple rectification – in this case fourfold – removes most of the volatile compounds and by-product fractions, leaving an alcohol of high chemical purity.
The sensory profile is neutral by design, dominated by the sharpness of the ethanol itself at such a high concentration. Despite the multiple purification and the enormous alcohol concentration, its grainy aroma remains perceptible once diluted with water. This is a feature that distinguishes grain rectified spirit from spirits made from other raw materials.
Due to its strength, the product is not intended for consumption in undiluted form. It is frequently used as a base for liqueurs and other infusions, and it is recommended never to drink it neat – this is a high-strength product that should be diluted or served with a mixer. In home use it serves above all as an intermediate for preparing cordials and liqueurs, as well as for culinary applications, where the high concentration aids the extraction of aromas from fruits and herbs.