Zubrowka

Żubrówka is one of the world’s most distinctive vodkas, instantly recognisable for the single blade of bison grass resting in every bottle and its unique, lightly herbal flavour. Originating from Poland and with roots stretching back over 500 years, Żubrówka takes its name from the Polish word żubr, meaning European bison, a species that roams the primeval Białowieża Forest, one of Europe’s last remaining ancient woodlands and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The story of Żubrówka begins with the tradition of infusing vodka with bison grass (Hierochloë odorata), a fragrant plant that grows only in certain meadows of the Białowieża Forest. For centuries, locals harvested the grass, dried it, and steeped it in vodka to produce a spirit believed to aid digestion and offer health benefits, as well as a distinctive flavour and pale golden hue. Over time, this rustic regional drink became a cultural symbol, tied to Poland’s natural heritage and hospitality.

Today, Żubrówka is produced under strict quality control using a blend of premium rye-based vodka and a carefully prepared bison grass extract. The rye spirit is distilled multiple times for purity, then blended with the natural infusion to achieve the brand’s signature flavour, a combination of soft vanilla, almond, coconut, and subtle herbal and floral notes, underpinned by a gentle sweetness. Each bottle still contains a decorative blade of the grass, hand-selected from the forest and carefully dried, both as a visual hallmark and as a nod to its origins.

Flavour-wise, Żubrówka Bison Grass offers a gentle, rounded profile. On the nose, expect soft hay, fresh-cut grass, and hints of citrus and vanilla. The palate is smooth and lightly sweet, with herbal and floral undertones, leading to a clean, slightly dry finish. Its balance makes it equally enjoyable sipped neat and chilled or used in cocktails.

One of the most famous serves is the Szarlotka (Polish for “apple pie”): Żubrówka Bison Grass mixed with cloudy apple juice and a squeeze of fresh lemon, often garnished with a cinnamon stick. The combination brings out the spirit’s vanilla and herbal notes while adding fruity freshness, a perfect example of its versatility.

Żubrówka holds a special place in Polish culture, often associated with celebrations, toasts, and traditional hospitality. Its international popularity has grown steadily, with its distinctive flavour appealing to vodka drinkers looking for something beyond neutral spirits.

Our Żubrówka selection includes the classic Bison Grass vodka alongside clear and flavoured variations, offering everything from traditional neat serves to creative cocktail possibilities. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or returning to a timeless favourite, Żubrówka delivers a taste that is unmistakably tied to the wild beauty and heritage of Poland’s Białowieża Forest.