Poles Pipped to the Post In Vodka Showdown

Much to the ire of Polish and Russian vodka distilleries, an Englishman has walked away with the top prize at the 2010 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Farmer Will Chase originally hit upon the idea of making vodka in 2004, after wondering what to do with all his excess potatoes that were too small to be made into potato crisps (Chase founded the famed Tyrell's brand in 2004 ).

With the backing of his crisps business (now sold), Chase was able to invest 2 million pounds in getting the machinery up and running. The first bottles appeared in 2008. Now he's beaten the Poles at their own game.

"I was really chuffed to have it endorsed as the world’s best vodka," said Chase of his blockbusting brew.

A 70 cl bottle of Chase vodka can be enjoyed from £32.95 a pop.