Why you must stop calling lambanog a vodka

Next time you talk or write about lambanog, don't call it the Philippine vodka or palm vodka because it never was. Lambanog is an "arrack".

What is an arrack?

Dictionary.com defined arrack as spirituous liquors distilled from the fermented sap of toddy palms.

arrack or ar·ak [ar-uhk, uh-rak] noun -  any of various spirituous liquors distilled in the East Indies and other parts of the East and Middle East from the fermented sap of toddy palms, or from fermented molasses, rice, or other materials.

  (Copyright 2013 by EBP of The Food Facts Police - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED)   

IN PHOTO: Lambanog of many flavors - Tiaong Diversion Road, Tiaong, Quezon.

Lambanog is often marketed internationally as "Philippine vodka" or "coconut vodka" simply by referring to its high alcohol content and clear appearance. This misconception and mislabeling of lambanog oversimplifies and misrepresents lambanog's true identity.

Calling lambanog a vodka might help it sell abroad, but culturally and historically, lambanog deserves to be recognized as its own unique spirit.