Although originating from Sweden, Poland, and Russia, vodka has made its mark across the whole world in a short time. Most people find it pretty simple to choose which vodka to buy, and they don’t always think about the type. But finding the best vodka can make all the difference, helping to appreciate the different flavors and even origins of the drink even more.
In 2020, the United States actually changed what can be defined as vodka. The new way to define it makes things more detailed. “’Vodka’ is neutral spirits which may be treated with up to two grams per liter of sugar and up to one gram per liter of citric acid,” Food and Wine explains. “Products to be labeled as vodka may not be aged or stored in wood barrels at any time except when stored in paraffin-lined wood barrels and labeled as bottled in bond… Vodka treated and filtered with not less than one ounce of activated carbon or activated charcoal per 100 wine gallons of spirits may be labeled as ‘charcoal filtered.’”
These changes, in the grand scheme of things, don’t really alter change things too much. In fact, most probably didn’t even notice. It’s still a neutral alcohol that can be used in a variety of ways, but the changes do allow it to have a bit more exclusivity within its neutral nature. Not everyone appreciates the neutrality of it, though. “Vodka sometimes gets a bad rap among cocktail connaisseurs for its neutral flavor, considered a “why bother?” spirit compared with gin and its herbaceous botanicals or mezcal’s vegetal smokiness. But we like to view it as a blank canvas, helping to enhance the flavors of the ingredients it’s used alongside,” explains Liquor.
Additionally, the plain nature of vodka may be the right choice for those looking for a drink with less sugar. Without mixers, juices, sodas, etc, vodka could be beneficial for those looking to have a nice time without excess sugar or carbohydrates. A recent study found that drinking alcohol could even aid of healthy weight loss. People who opt for healthier foods at the bars that are higher in protein and less in fried fats, sugars, and carbs, may have more of a benefit than people who don’t drink at all.
In order to help you appreciate vodka just a bit more and see what’s out there other than what you may typically find, StudyFinds set out to find the best bottles. For our research, we visited 10 leading expert websites to see which vodkas were rated the best. Our list is ranked based on the most-recommended bourbons across these sites.
The List: Best Vodka, According To The Experts
1. Absolut Elyx
Absolut may not be the first brand to come to mind, but sure enough, reviewers agree that Absolut Elyx is an excellent choice! Made in a small Swedish town in the southernmost part of the country, it’s nothing short of special and the “luxury” creation by Absolut. The grains are sourced from just one estate and its manually distilled in vintage copper still to create its smooth mouthfeel.
“It’s a beautiful, velvety liquid when it gets to that temperature, then it reveals itself as it warms up…cuts through caviar like a knife; it goes with pickled herring, stinky cheese, charcuterie, foie gras, gravlax—anything cured,” said Tony Abou-Ganim, star bartender and author of “Vodka Distilled” to Liquor.
This is considered one of the best-tasting vodkas, and it doesn’t break the bank! Usually around $40, this vodka is great for sipping on its own or mixing into martinis. It also goes well with cured meats commonly found on charcuterie boards, as well as different cheeses.
GearMoose says Absolut Elyx is “known for its soft flavors of buttery caramel, nutty sweetness, vanilla, and spicy, peppery rye.”
Meanwhile, Parade describes it as an “exceptionally refined vodka that’s crafted entirely at the hand of the Master Distiller—without the use of computers. A very rare vodka-making feat these days.
2. Belvedere
Though the roots of vodka trace back to Sweden, Russia, and Poland, there’s an ongoing debate on if Russia or Poland were truly the pioneers.
This vodka uses very minimal ingredients and sources its rye from only eight farming partners.
“It’s void of sugar, additives and gluten, and is considered to be the first super-premium vodka in the world. Upon first sip you might detect notes of vanilla, white pepper and spices—or perhaps clotted cream,” Parade writes.
3. Grey Goose
Originating from the world-renowned Cognac region of France, this vodka was one of the first super-premium varieties to ever be on the market. “With its toasty notes and hints of spice combine with a creamy finish, it’s easy to see why it remains a classic,” Town and Country writes.
It has a clean, balanced flavor that keeps people running back to it.
“Made from the finest French ingredients – soft winter wheat and Gensac spring water filtered through Grande Champagne limestone – it’s exceptionally well-balanced with a fresh, herbaceous flavour and a hint of rye,” Esquire writes.
“This French vodka is known for its notes of vanilla, nutty sweetness, and peppery rye. It’s sweet, spicy, and well-suited for slow sipping.” adds GearMoose.
4. Hangar 1
The United States makes some pretty good stuff, too. Distilled in California, Hangar 1 is a unique vodka that’s crafted from wine.
“Distilled from grains and grapes, the aromas of this American vodka instantly recall pear drops. Further bursts of orchard fruit and citrus emerge on the palate, making this an ideal candidate for elevated Lemon Drops,” Vine Pair writes.
The vodka gets its name from its humble origins. First developed in 2002 in an airport hangar, this vodka is still produced at the old Naval Air Station Alameda on San Francisco Bay, though in a newer distillery.
“Hangar 1 is a vodka that will please everyone at the party, from newbies wanting a slightly fruity touch to their Cosmopolitans to seasoned imbibers looking for a rounded floral perfume in their Gibson,” Liquor writes.
5. Chopin
This vodka is considered one of the most classic and traditionally-made kinds since it’s mainly made of potato. Though simply distilled, the flavor remains complex in one of the best ways.
“Instead of something you throw into a cocktail with more flavorful ingredients, Chopin vodka is all about bold flavor for true vodka lovers. You can get three different single-ingredient vodkas from the brand—potato, rye, and wheat. The potato is a favorite for its uniquely creamy, full-flavor profile,” Delish writes.
The company is all about distilling with care, setting this bottle apart and making it a thoughtful choice for your freezer.
“Made using young potatoes grown on the Chopin distillery estate, the spirit rests for two years in 50-year-old Polish oak barrels before being bottled by hand. While it shows no color nor influence of wood, the profile is notably harmonious with hints of fruit emerging on the nose and an intense palate that sets up an exceedingly lengthy finish,” Vine Pair writes.
Editor’s Choice: Tito’s Handmade Vodka
“All of the vodkas in this list are fine selections, but Tito’s has long been a go-to for me,” says StudyFinds Editor-in-Chief Steve Fink. “The Austin, Texas-based vodka is smooth, flavorful, and most importantly, since I’m not a huge vodka drinker, I don’t cringe the slightest bit if I’m sipping it straight. Perhaps the best part? It’s not nearly as expensive as some of the ‘designer’ names out there, including some on this list. I guess it’s no surprise that Tito wound up making the perfect vodka: the guy’s last name is ‘Beveridge,’ after all! You can’t make this stuff up!”
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Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.
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