Liquor Laboratory

The Bottle Bliss: Best Flavored Vodka to Drink Straight

three glasses of vodka cocktails

Last Updated on November 26, 2023 by Lydia Martin

Flavored vodkas hold the key to a world of extraordinary taste and unrivaled sipping experiences. 

When it comes to the Best Flavored Vodka to Drink Straight, the options are as diverse as they are captivating. 

From luscious berry infusions to zesty citrus delights and enticing herbal or spiced varieties, these vodkas offer a delightful journey for the senses. 

Get ready to elevate your sipping game as we uncover the top picks that promise pure enjoyment with every sip!

Introduction

What is flavored vodka?

Flavored vodka refers to vodka that has been infused or flavored with various natural or artificial flavors. These flavors can range from fruits and herbs to spices and even chocolate or coffee

The infusion of flavors adds a distinct taste profile to the vodka, making it more enjoyable and versatile for consumption.

What are the factors to consider when selecting flavored vodka to drink straight?

Quality

Opt for high-quality vodka brands using premium ingredients and proper production methods. This ensures a smoother and more refined drinking experience.

Flavor Authenticity

Look for flavored vodkas that authentically represent the flavor they claim. A well-balanced and natural flavor profile enhances overall enjoyment.

Smoothness

Consider vodkas that have a smooth and clean finish. This indicates a well-distilled vodka that goes down easily and doesn’t have a harsh or burning sensation.

Versatility

Choose flavored vodkas that can be enjoyed straight but also work well in various cocktails. Versatile vodkas allow for creative mixing options and expand the range of drink possibilities.

Personal Preference

Ultimately, the choice of flavored vodka comes down to personal taste preferences. Consider the flavors that appeal to you the most: fruity, herbal, spiced, or unique.

Price

Take into account your budget and the average price range of the flavored vodkas available. While higher-priced options often reflect premium quality, there are also reasonably priced vodkas that offer great taste and value.

glasses of vodka paired with olives

Best Flavored Vodka to Drink Straight

Berry Flavored Vodkas

Absolut Raspberri

Absolut Raspberri is made from Swedish winter wheat and is infused with natural raspberry flavors. [1]

  • ABV: 40%
  • Average Price: $20-25
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: Absolut
  • Distillery: The Absolut Company
  • Production Methods: Continuous distillation and flavor infusion.
  • Flavor Profile: Sweet and vibrant raspberry flavor.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Fresh raspberry aroma.
    • Palate: Smooth and fruity with a hint of sweetness.
    • Smoothness: Very smooth.
    • Finish: Clean and refreshing finish.
  • Food Pairings: Chocolate desserts, mixed berry salads, or lemon-based desserts.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Absolut Raspberri offers a well-balanced and authentic raspberry flavor that is enjoyable to drink straight.

Stolichnaya Blueberi

Stolichnaya Blueberi is a vodka infused with natural blueberry flavors.

  • ABV: 37.5%
  • Average Price: $20-25
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: Stolichnaya
  • Distillery: Latvijas Balzams, Riga, Latvia
  • Production Methods: Distilled from grain and filtered through quartz sand and charcoal.
  • Flavor Profile: Bold and authentic blueberry taste.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Intense blueberry aroma.
    • Palate: Rich blueberry flavor with a touch of sweetness.
    • Smoothness: Smooth and well-rounded.
    • Finish: Clean and lingering finish.
  • Food Pairings: Blueberry-based desserts, citrus salads, or creamy cheeses.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Stolichnaya Blueberi delivers a pronounced blueberry flavor that is both enjoyable and versatile.

Three Olives Wild Berry

Three Olives Wild Berry is a vodka infused with wild berry flavors.

  • ABV: 35%
  • Average Price: $15-20
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: Three Olives
  • Distillery: Three Olives Company, United Kingdom
  • Production Methods: Quadruple-distilled and filtered through charcoal and oxidized copper.
  • Flavor Profile: A blend of ripe berries with a slightly tart undertone.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Aromatic mix of berry scents.
    • Palate: Juicy and fruity with a balanced sweetness.
    • Smoothness: Smooth and easy to drink.
    • Finish: Clean and lingering finish.
  • Food Pairings: Mixed berry desserts, tropical fruit salads, or spicy appetizers.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Three Olives Wild Berry offers a delightful combination of various berry flavors, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.

Citrus Flavored Vodkas

Ketel One Citroen

Ketel One Citroen is a vodka infused with natural lemon and lime flavors.

  • ABV: 40%
  • Average Price: $25-30
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: Ketel One
  • Distillery: Nolet Distillery, Netherlands
  • Production Methods: Pot-distilled from wheat and column-distilled for purity.
  • Flavor Profile: Zesty citrus with a crisp and refreshing character.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Fresh lemon and lime aromas.
    • Palate: Bright and citrusy with a subtle sweetness.
    • Smoothness: Exceptionally smooth.
    • Finish: Clean and invigorating finish.
  • Food Pairings: Seafood dishes, citrus salads, or light and fresh appetizers.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Ketel One Citroen offers a true-to-nature citrus experience, perfect for those who enjoy the bright and uplifting flavors of lemon and lime.

Grey Goose L’Orange

Grey Goose L’Orange is a vodka infused with succulent orange flavors.

  • ABV: 40%
  • Average Price: $30-35
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: Grey Goose
  • Distillery: Le Logis, France
  • Production Methods: Distilled from French wheat and spring water using a continuous column distillation process.
  • Flavor Profile: Vibrant and natural orange taste.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Aromas of fresh oranges.
    • Palate: Smooth and silky with a sweet and juicy orange essence.
    • Smoothness: Silky and velvety.
    • Finish: Lingering and pleasantly warm finish.
  • Food Pairings: Orange-infused desserts, grilled poultry, or fruity cocktails.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Grey Goose L’Orange provides an elegant and genuine orange flavor crafted with high-quality ingredients and a refined distillation process.

Skyy Infusions Citrus

Skyy Infusions Citrus is a vodka infused with real citrus fruits, including lime, lemon, and orange.

  • ABV: 35%
  • Average Price: $15-20
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: Skyy Vodka
  • Distillery: Skyy Spirits, United States
  • Production Methods: Quadruple-distilled and triple-filtered for smoothness.
  • Flavor Profile: Bright and tangy citrus medley.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: A burst of zesty citrus aromas.
    • Palate: Refreshing and lively with a balanced citrus profile.
    • Smoothness: Smooth and clean on the palate.
    • Finish: Crisp and satisfying finish.
  • Food Pairings: Citrus-based desserts, seafood ceviche, or light salads.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Skyy Infusions Citrus delivers a delightful combination of citrus flavors, making it a versatile and affordable option for enjoying vodka straight or in cocktails.

vodka cocktail in red

Herbal Flavored Vodkas

Pinnacle Cucumber Watermelon

Pinnacle Cucumber Watermelon is a vodka infused with the crispness of cucumber and the sweetness of watermelon.

  • ABV: 35%
  • Average Price: $15-20
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: Pinnacle Vodka
  • Distillery: Beam Suntory, United States
  • Production Methods: Distilled five times and filtered to ensure smoothness.
  • Flavor Profile: Refreshing and subtly sweet with a hint of herbal notes.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Invigorating cucumber and watermelon scents.
    • Palate: Cool and refreshing with a balanced blend of cucumber and watermelon flavors.
    • Smoothness: Smooth and easy-drinking.
    • Finish: Clean and slightly sweet finish.
  • Food Pairings: Light salads, grilled fish, or cucumber-based cocktails.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Pinnacle Cucumber Watermelon offers a unique combination of refreshing and enjoyable flavors, particularly during warmer seasons.

Belvedere Lemon Tea

Belvedere Lemon Tea is a vodka infused with real tea leaves and the zesty essence of lemons.

  • ABV: 40%
  • Average Price: $30-35
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: Belvedere Vodka
  • Distillery: Polmos Żyrardów Distillery, Poland
  • Production Methods: Distilled from Polish rye and purified water.
  • Flavor Profile: Balanced and invigorating combination of tea and lemon flavors.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Aromatic blend of tea and lemon zest.
    • Palate: Smooth and sophisticated with distinct tea and lemon notes.
    • Smoothness: Silky and refined.
    • Finish: Clean and subtly bitter finish.
  • Food Pairings: Light pastries, grilled vegetables, or citrus-infused desserts.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Belvedere Lemon Tea offers a unique twist on vodka with its tea and lemon infusion, providing a harmonious balance of flavors and a touch of sophistication.

Effen Cucumber

Effen Cucumber is a vodka infused with cucumbers’ fresh and crisp essence.

  • ABV: 37.5%
  • Average Price: $25-30
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: Effen Vodka
  • Distillery: Hooghoudt Distillery, Netherlands
  • Production Methods: Distilled from Dutch wheat and filtered through charcoal and ceramic.
  • Flavor Profile: Clean and natural cucumber taste.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Aromatic cucumber aroma with a hint of floral notes.
    • Palate: Refreshing and cool with a distinct cucumber flavor.
    • Smoothness: Smooth and silky on the palate.
    • Finish: Clean and crisp finish.
  • Food Pairings: Light salads, seafood dishes, or cucumber-based cocktails.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Effen Cucumber provides an authentic and refreshing cucumber experience, perfect for those who enjoy the subtle and invigorating flavors of cucumbers in their vodka.

Spiced Flavored Vodkas

Smirnoff Spicy Tamarind

Smirnoff Spicy Tamarind is a vodka infused with the bold and tangy flavors of tamarind and spices.

  • ABV: 35%
  • Average Price: $15-20
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: Smirnoff
  • Distillery: Diageo, United Kingdom
  • Production Methods: Triple-distilled and ten times filtered for purity.
  • Flavor Profile: Spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet with a hint of heat.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Aromatic blend of tamarind and spices.
    • Palate: Zesty and fiery with a distinct tamarind flavor.
    • Smoothness: Smooth with a warm kick.
    • Finish: Spicy and lingering finish.
  • Food Pairings: Spicy Asian cuisine, tropical fruit salsas, or Mexican-inspired dishes.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Smirnoff Spicy Tamarind offers a unique flavor profile, combining the tanginess of tamarind with a spicy twist, making it an exciting and adventurous choice for those who enjoy bolder flavors.

Absolut Peppar

Absolut Peppar is a vodka infused with bold and spicy flavors, primarily influenced by green bell peppers and chili peppers.

  • ABV: 40%
  • Average Price: $20-25
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: Absolut
  • Distillery: The Absolut Company
  • Production Methods: Continuous distillation and flavor infusion.
  • Flavor Profile: Intensely spicy with a savory and peppery character.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Aromatic blend of peppers and spices.
    • Palate: Fiery and bold with a distinct pepper taste.
    • Smoothness: Smooth and well-balanced.
    • Finishing: Spicy and lingering finish.
  • Food Pairings: Spicy Bloody Mary cocktails, grilled meats, or spicy Mexican dishes.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Absolut Peppar offers a robust and spicy flavor profile, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate the heat and complexity that peppers bring to their vodka.

Van Gogh Double Espresso

Van Gogh Double Espresso is a vodka infused with the rich and aromatic flavors of double espresso coffee.

  • ABV: 35%
  • Average Price: $30-35
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: Van Gogh Vodka
  • Distillery: Royal Dirkzwager Distilleries, Netherlands
  • Production Methods: Distilled from grain and filtered through activated charcoal.
  • Flavor Profile: Bold and robust with intense coffee flavors.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Rich coffee aroma with hints of dark chocolate.
    • Palate: Deep and velvety with an authentic espresso taste.
    • Smoothness: Smooth and velvety texture.
    • Finish: Lingering and pleasantly bitter finish.
  • Food Pairings: Chocolate desserts, creamy tiramisu, or espresso-infused cocktails.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Van Gogh Double Espresso offers a distinct coffee experience, capturing the essence of espresso with its deep and robust flavors, making it an ideal choice for coffee lovers and vodka enthusiasts alike.

Chocolate and Coffee Flavored Vodkas

360 Double Chocolate Vodka

360 Double Chocolate Vodka is a vodka infused with rich and indulgent chocolate flavors. [2]

  • ABV: 35%
  • Average Price: $20-25
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: 360 Vodka
  • Distillery: Earth Friendly Distilling Co., United States
  • Production Methods: Quadruple-distilled and filtered through activated charcoal for purity.
  • Flavor Profile: Decadent and creamy chocolate with a hint of sweetness.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Aromas of cocoa and chocolate.
    • Palate: Smooth and velvety with a rich and genuine chocolate taste.
    • Smoothness: Silky and luxurious.
    • Finish: Lingering and satisfying finish.
  • Food Pairings: Chocolate desserts, vanilla ice cream, or espresso martinis.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: 360 Double Chocolate Vodka provides an authentic chocolate experience, delivering a velvety and indulgent flavor that is perfect for dessert-inspired cocktails or savoring on its own.

vodka cocktail garnished with lemon, lime and some green leaves

Kahlua Coffee Liqueur

Kahlua Coffee Liqueur is a classic spirit infused with Arabica coffee and rum flavors.

  • ABV: 20%
  • Average Price: $20-25
  • Type: Coffee Liqueur (contains vodka)
  • Brand: Kahlua
  • Distillery: Pernod Ricard, Mexico
  • Production Methods: Made with roasted coffee beans, rum, sugar, and vanilla.
  • Flavor Profile: Rich and smooth with a pronounced coffee taste and hints of sweetness.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Aromatic coffee aroma with notes of caramel.
    • Palate: Smooth and mellow with a balanced blend of coffee and sweetness.
    • Smoothness: Velvety and satisfying.
    • Finish: Long-lasting and warm finish.
  • Food Pairings: Coffee-based desserts, creamy cocktails, or enjoyed over ice.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Kahlua Coffee Liqueur is a beloved and versatile choice for coffee lovers, offering a rich and robust coffee flavor that compliments various cocktails and desserts.

Godiva Chocolate Infused Vodka

Godiva Chocolate Infused Vodka is a vodka infused with the essence of Belgian chocolate.

  • ABV: 30%
  • Average Price: $30-35
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: Godiva Vodka
  • Distillery: United States Distilled Products Co., United States
  • Production Methods: Made with real Godiva chocolate and infused into vodka.
  • Flavor Profile: Smooth and luxurious chocolate with a delicate sweetness.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Intense aroma of rich and creamy chocolate.
    • Palate: Silky and indulgent with an authentic chocolate taste.
    • Smoothness: Silky smooth with a luxurious texture.
    • Finish: Lingering and satisfying finish.
  • Food Pairings: Chocolate truffles, rich desserts, or creamy cocktails.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Godiva Chocolate Infused Vodka offers a premium and sophisticated chocolate experience, providing a smooth and luscious taste that is perfect for chocolate enthusiasts and cocktail connoisseurs.

Other Unique Flavored Vodkas

Hangar 1 Makrut Lime

Hangar 1 Makrut Lime is a vodka infused with the aromatic and citrusy flavors of Makrut lime.

  • ABV: 40%
  • Average Price: $35-40
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: Hangar 1 Vodka
  • Distillery: Hangar 1 Distillery, United States
  • Production Methods: Distilled from a blend of Viognier grapes and wheat infused with Makrut lime leaves.
  • Flavor Profile: Zesty and fragrant with distinctive lime notes.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Aromatic and citrusy with hints of herbal undertones.
    • Palate: Bright and tangy with the unique flavor of Makrut lime.
    • Smoothness: Smooth and well-balanced.
    • Finish: Clean and refreshing finish.
  • Food Pairings: Thai dishes, citrus-based salads, or tangy ceviche.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Hangar 1 Makrut Lime offers a distinctive and aromatic lime flavor, perfect for those seeking a citrusy and exotic vodka experience.

Pinnacle Whipped Cream

Pinnacle Whipped Cream is a vodka infused with the creamy and sweet flavors of whipped cream.

  • ABV: 35%
  • Average Price: $15-20
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: Pinnacle Vodka
  • Distillery: Beam Suntory, United States
  • Production Methods: Distilled five times and filtered to ensure smoothness.
  • Flavor Profile: Smooth and sweet with a rich whipped cream taste.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Sweet and creamy aroma reminiscent of whipped cream.
    • Palate: Smooth and velvety with a delicate sweetness.
    • Smoothness: Silky and easy-drinking.
    • Finish: Soft and creamy finish.
  • Food Pairings: Dessert cocktails, creamy desserts, or enjoyed as a dessert on its own.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Pinnacle Whipped Cream offers a fun and indulgent flavor profile, capturing the essence of whipped cream and making it an enjoyable choice for dessert-inspired cocktails or sipping on its own.

Ciroc Red Berry

Ciroc Red Berry is a vodka infused with a blend of raspberries and strawberries.

  • ABV: 37.5%
  • Average Price: $30-35
  • Type: Flavored Vodka
  • Brand: Ciroc
  • Distillery: Diageo, United Kingdom
  • Production Methods: Made from French grapes and distilled five times.
  • Flavor Profile: Vibrant and fruity with pronounced red berry flavors.
  • Tasting Notes:
    • Nose: Aromas of ripe raspberries and strawberries.
    • Palate: Juicy and luscious with a balanced blend of red berry flavors.
    • Smoothness: Smooth and luxurious.
    • Finish: Clean and refreshing finish.
  • Food Pairings: Mixed berry desserts, fruit salads, or enjoyed in fruity cocktails.
  • Why it’s a Good Choice: Ciroc Red Berry offers a delicious fusion of raspberry and strawberry flavors, delivering a vibrant and fruity taste that is perfect for those who enjoy berry-infused vodka and vibrant cocktails.

FAQs

Is it good to drink vodka straight?

Drinking vodka straight is not inherently good or bad. Generally, drinking vodka straight allows ethanol to quickly enter your bloodstream, liver, and other body tissues without any other ingredients that might affect alcohol absorption. 

As a result, the consumption of pure vodka can lead to a flourish in blood alcohol levels. At the end of the day, it is a personal choice and can be done responsibly by individuals of legal drinking age who understand the potential risks and effects of alcohol consumption.

References

  1. https://www.absolut.com/en/products/absolut-raspberri/
  2. https://vodka360.com/360-double-chocolate/
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