The European Parliament has to contend with the strong tradition of vodka in Poland if they want to keep vodka's definition broad.
For Poland and Russia, vodka's history began in the Middle Ages. That centuries-old tradition of vodka production has been encroached upon by countries that do not have vodka traditions, like the UK or Spain, who use ingredients that, some say, mean their products should not be called vodka. While the EU will decide ultimately what products can be given a vodka label, Poland stands firm that only grain- or potato-based spirits are authentic vodka products.
Vodka purists may agree. Eastern Europe is the origin of vodka and the national drink of both Poland and Russia. Many palate-pleasing brands come from that niche of Eastern Europe - Chopin and Russian Standard (both available in the US), just to name a couple. These brands are best drunk neat, frozen, and with zakuzki, or typical Eastern European snacks, like pickled vegetables, caviar, and black bread. Two or three close friends, or a handful of acquaintances, can lend a poetic note to a vodka-tempered evening - or at least you'll think you sound more like Pushkin or Gogol as the evening progresses.
