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10 Best Vanilla Vodka Brands Reviewed (2023 Updated)

best vanilla vodka

Last Updated on February 16, 2024 by Lydia Martin

The increase in sales of other spirits like whiskey and tequila resulted in a decrease in vodka sales. Additionally, the continuous expansion of new refreshing flavored beverages makes it harder for a neutral spirit like vodka to recover. Vodka companies eventually started to create varieties like vanilla-flavored vodkas.

We have listed the best vanilla vodka brands that we often mix with our favorite cocktails.

Top 10 Vanilla Vodkas You Should Try

1. Smirnoff Vanilla

Smirnoff Vanilla on desk with glass

Smirnoff is the first on our list of best vanilla vodka brands and probably the most recognizable vodka product since the 19th century. The base vodka used for Smirnoff Vanilla came from triple distilled corn and was ten times filtered to ensure the drink’s purity. 

After infusing the flavorless vodka with natural flavors of sweet vanilla, it results in a creamy aroma like a marshmallow. Smirnoff Vanilla has a balanced sweetness and spiciness on the palate, with lingering black pepper in its smooth finish.

2. Absolut Vanilia

Absolut Vanilia on table with vodka shots

In 1979, Absolut vodka entered the United States market in a pharmacy bottle that aimed to symbolize the drink’s purity [1]. Their plain vodka will undergo continuous distillation of winter wheat before infusing the vanilla flavor and creating the Absolut Vanilia vodka. It has no added sugar and is one of the first vanilla vodka products available.

Absolut Vanilia has a complex and unique vanilla flavor, where the first sip is a combination of bitter dark chocolate, butterscotch, and peppery spice. It finishes drily with an aftertaste of sweet white chocolate.

3. Veil Vanilla Vodka

Veil Vanilla on table with vodka shots

Veil Vanilla has a base vodka that went through a distillation process for five-time and charcoal-filtered to achieve its incredibly smooth and rich sweet taste. The company strategically presented this vodka in a bottle that presents an image of vanilla ice cream, hinting to the consumer of the liquor’s flavor profile.

It tastes like a sweet syrup that is delicious to take straight or with a mix of citrus and beer. The vanilla flavor of this vodka gives an exciting twist to the vanilla martini, chocolate, lemon, or any fruit-based cocktails.

4. Stolichnaya Vanilla

Stolichnaya Vanilla on desk with cocktail

Stolichnaya Vanilla only uses natural flavoring from vanilla bean products of Indonesia and Madagascar, adding no sugar in the whole process. Its base vodka went through three distillations and four filtrations before adding artesian water to tone down the alcohol.

This vodka is probably the most common bottle among bartenders. It has an underlying aroma of white pepper and a creamy sweet vanilla flavor. It tastes like cocoa powder and spicy black pepper in the middle but leaves no unpleasant taste in the finish.

5. Burnett’s Vanilla Vodka

Burnett’s Vanilla Vodka on table with cocktail

Burnett’s vodkas have superior smoothness that resulted from the process of quadruple distillations and triple charcoal filtrations. It is under the company of Heaven Hills, the largest family-owned local distillery located in Kentucky. It has a well-balanced natural flavor of sweet vanilla with a mild and creamy texture.

Like most of the vodkas that undergo natural infusions, it is gluten-free. It blends well with any cocktail, or it can substitute whipped cream vodka for lesser sweetness in the flavor. 

6. Starr Blu Vodka Vanilla

Starr Blu Vodka Vanilla on desk with cocktail

Available at a very affordable price of around $10, this liquor has all the sweet flavors of naturally-infused vanilla vodka. This product used a base vodka made from the finest grains that went through five distillation processes in Minnesota.

It is very smooth and has a crisp flavor, with hints of vanilla ice cream on the palate. It works well with mixed drinks because of its well-balanced sweetness. Dr. Pepper or coke makes a perfect choice to create a sweet, bubbly cocktail with this vodka.

7. Grey Goose Le Vanille

Grey Goose Le Vanille on table with cocktail and jelly candies

Grey Goose Vanilla came from a premium vodka brand in France. The company is famous for the five-time distillation of French winter wheat and sourcing limestone-filtered water below their main facility. The resulting vodka is the base of Grey Goose Vanilla, making it one of the smoothest vodkas worldwide.

It has a sweeter flavor than most vanilla vodkas, with a light taste of toffee, white chocolate, and licorice. This vodka has the smell of fresh vanilla ice cream that can be an easy booze treat to your favorite mixed drink.

8. Ciroc French Vanilla 

Ciroc French Vanilla on desk with cocktail

This product is the eighth flavored vodka from Ciroc, a brand under the multi-national company of Diageo. Before the official launching of Ciroc French Vanilla in 2017, the makers pledged to donate roughly $1 for every bottle of this expression. This move supports ending extreme poverty in Africa and different parts of the world [2].

The makers naturally flavored their plain vodka with vanilla beans sourced from multiple places like Madagascar. It has an aroma of vanilla ice cream and white pepper, with strong sweet vanilla at first sip and mild cacao in the middle. The drink balances its profile with a pepper finish.

9. Heritage Vanilla Vodka

Heritage Vanilla Vodka on table with cocktail and mini pretzels

This vanilla vodka is one of more than twenty flavored drinks released by Heritage Distilling Company in 2014. The company carefully crafted this vanilla flavor variety using a base vodka of distilled grapes with no artificial sweeteners or flavors.

The combination of grapes and vanilla into a single flavored drink results in a sweet palate with a hint of tart in the middle. Due to its low alcohol content of 30% ABV, the vanilla essence dominates the drink from the first sip to the gentle warm finish.

The American Distilling Institute awarded a silver medal to Heritage Vanilla vodka in 2017, making it another award-winning product from the company.

10. Triple Eight Vanilla Vodka

Triple Eight Vanilla Vodka on desk with steak tartare

The last of our vanilla vodkas came from the Triple Eight Distillery located on the island of Nantucket. Its remote location makes it hardly available to the market, with the company concentrating on the locals and visitors of the island for their sale.

Using corn from Holland that went through three distillation processes, they will tone down the alcohol concentration of the base vodka using water from well number 888. The distillery used natural ingredients like real fruit for their vanilla-flavored vodkas. 

It features vanilla beans from New Guinea and Madagascar, creating a creamy and bittersweet spirit with a little biting finish.

Also Read:

Popular Vanilla Vodka Cocktail Recipes

Popular Vanilla Vodka Cocktail Recipes

Boozy Vanilla Latte 

Prep Time: 3 minutes

Total Time:  3 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 ounce of vodka (preferably Absolut Vanilla)
  • 3 ounces chilled coffee
  • 2 ounces cream liqueur or heavy cream

Instructions:

Prepare a highball glass filled with ice cubes. Pour the Absolut Vanilla vodka, coffee, and cream liqueur into the glass. Stir well and enjoy.

Serving: 1

Strawberry Vanilla Sangria

Strawberry Vanilla Sangria in a Pitcher

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 750ml bottle of wine
  • 325ml bottle of vodka
  • 250ml of triple sec
  • 250ml of soda water
  • ten sliced strawberries

Instructions:

Prepare a punch bowl or pitcher for large servings. Combine all the ingredients into the punch bowl except for the soda water and stir. Wait for fifteen minutes for all the ingredients to blend properly. Add the soda water or any carbonated drinks just before serving.

Serving: 8

Vanilla Latte Cocktail

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 ounces of vanilla vodka
  • 1-ounce cold brew coffee
  • 1-ounce Kahlúa
  • milk or cream(optional)

Instructions:

Mix the vodka with the rest of the ingredients in a cocktail glass. Put in some ice cubes and stir. Adding cream or milk will add sweetness to the taste, but it can be optional. Serve and enjoy.

Serving: 1

Vanilla Orange Creamsicle 

Vanilla Orange Creamsicle

Prep Time: 4 minutes

Total Time: 8 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 ounces of vanilla vodka
  • 1-ounce orange curacao
  • 1-ounce simple syrup
  • 4 ounces of orange juice
  • whipped cream
  • carbonated drink(optional)

Instructions:

Pour the vodka on a highball glass, followed by orange curacao or triple sec. Put in the rest of the ingredients with the ice, then stir. Adding a carbonated drink is optional, but the cocktail can be more refreshing. Top it up with whipped cream, then serve.

Serving: 1

Skyy Vanilla White Russian

Prep Time: 3 minutes

Total Time: 3 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 ounces of vanilla vodka
  • 1 ounce Kahlúa
  • 1-ounce heavy cream
  • Grated nutmeg (optional)
  • Ice 

Instructions:

Chill a cocktail glass in the freezer ahead of time. Next, pour vodka, Kahlúa, and ice into another glass for mixing. Strain the liquor into the chilled cocktail glass. Put on another ice cube before layering the heavy cream on top. Garnish the cocktail with grated nutmeg for a twist.

Serving: 1

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the smoothest vanilla vodka?

The smoothest vanilla vodka is Grey Goose Le Vanille. It is a premium vodka from France, meticulously crafted from the finest wheat in Europe and mineral-rich Gensac water [3].

How much do vanilla vodkas usually cost?

The standard vanilla vodka usually costs around $9 to $20. Grey Goose and Triple Eight are among the most expensive vanilla vodka brands, priced around $35 to $50.

Which vodka makes the best vanilla?

The choice of vodka for making vanilla extract is subjective, and various brands can be used depending on personal preference.

Some popular choices for making vanilla extract include neutral and high-proof vodkas that allow the vanilla beans to impart their flavors. Brands like Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Grey Goose, or Absolut are often favored for their clean and neutral profiles, letting the vanilla flavor shine through.

Ultimately, the best vodka for making vanilla extract depends on individual taste preferences and the desired outcome.

Does vanilla vodka taste good?

Vanilla vodka is known for its sweet and smooth flavor profile, offering a pleasant infusion of vanilla into the spirit.

The taste can vary between brands, and some may have a more pronounced or artificial vanilla flavor compared to others.

Generally, vanilla vodka is appreciated for its versatility in cocktails, where its sweet and aromatic qualities can enhance a wide range of drinks. It is often used in dessert-style cocktails or mixed with various juices and sodas to create flavorful beverages.

What is the #1 ranked vodka?

Determining the “#1 ranked vodka” can be subjective, as rankings may vary based on individual preferences, expert opinions, and the criteria used for evaluation.

As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, popular and well-regarded vodka brands include Belvedere, Grey Goose, and Absolut. These brands often feature prominently in various rankings and competitions.

However, the perception of the “#1 ranked vodka” can change over time, so it’s advisable to check recent reviews and industry rankings for the most up-to-date information.

Is Absolut vanilla vodka sweet?

Yes, Absolut Vanilla vodka has a sweet and rich flavor profile. It is infused with natural vanilla flavor, which imparts sweetness and a distinct vanilla aroma to the vodka.

The sweetness of Absolut Vanilla makes it suitable for a variety of cocktails, especially those with dessert-like or creamy elements.

It is important to note that the level of sweetness may vary between different vanilla vodka brands, and individual taste preferences play a significant role in determining what is considered sweet.

Is Absolut vanilla strong?

The strength of Absolut Vanilla vodka refers to its alcohol content, which is typically around 40% alcohol by volume (ABV), consistent with standard vodka. In terms of flavor intensity, Absolut Vanilla has a distinct but not overpowering vanilla taste.

The strength of the vanilla flavor may be perceived as strong or subtle based on individual preferences. As with any flavored vodka, the balance between the base spirit and the infused flavor is carefully crafted to provide a harmonious and enjoyable taste experience.

Is Smirnoff Vanilla vodka good?

The taste and quality of Smirnoff Vanilla vodka are subjective and depend on individual preferences. Smirnoff is a well-known and widely available vodka brand, and its Vanilla vodka variant is appreciated by some for its smoothness and vanilla infusion.

Smirnoff Vanilla is often used in cocktails, and its versatility allows it to be mixed with various ingredients to create flavorful drinks.

Whether it is considered “good” depends on personal taste preferences, as some may enjoy its sweetness and vanilla notes, while others may prefer a different brand or flavor profile.

What do you mix vanilla vodka with?

Vanilla vodka is a versatile spirit that can be mixed with various ingredients to create flavorful cocktails. Some popular mixers for vanilla vodka include:

Fruit Juices: Orange juice, pineapple juice, or cranberry juice can complement the sweet and aromatic qualities of vanilla vodka.

Sodas: Lemon-lime soda, ginger ale, or tonic water can add effervescence and a refreshing twist to vanilla vodka.

Creamy Mixers: Vanilla vodka pairs well with creamy mixers like coconut cream, cream soda, or even a splash of milk, creating dessert-like cocktails.

Coffee or Espresso: Adding vanilla vodka to coffee or espresso can create a delightful twist on classic coffee drinks.

Flavored Syrups: Vanilla vodka can be mixed with flavored syrups like hazelnut or caramel for added complexity.

Liqueurs: Combining vanilla vodka with complementary liqueurs such as amaretto or orange liqueur can result in unique and delicious cocktails.

Experimenting with different mixers allows you to discover your preferred combinations and create custom cocktails tailored to your taste.

What does Absolut vanilla vodka taste like?

Absolut Vanilla vodka has a sweet and rich flavor profile with a prominent vanilla character. The vodka is infused with natural vanilla flavor, providing a smooth and aromatic taste experience.

Absolut Vanilla is known for its balanced sweetness, making it suitable for a variety of cocktails, especially those with dessert-like or creamy elements.

The vanilla flavor is generally well-integrated into the vodka, offering a pleasant and versatile spirit for mixing.

Should vanilla vodka be refrigerated?

While vodka, including flavored varieties like vanilla vodka, does not require refrigeration for preservation, some people prefer to store it in the refrigerator for personal preferences.

Refrigeration may slightly enhance the viscosity and mouthfeel of the vodka, providing a different drinking experience.

However, storing vanilla vodka at room temperature is perfectly acceptable, and it will not spoil or lose its flavor. Keep in mind that extreme temperature fluctuations should be avoided to maintain the quality of the spirit.

Does better vodka make better vanilla?

The quality of the vodka used for making vanilla extract can influence the final product, but the term “better” is subjective.

Generally, a neutral and high-proof vodka is recommended for making vanilla extract, as it allows the vanilla beans to impart their flavors without interference from strong vodka notes.

Brands like Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Grey Goose, or Absolut are often chosen for their clean and neutral profiles. Ultimately, the choice of vodka depends on personal preference, and experimenting with different brands can help determine the desired outcome.

Can I use any vodka for vanilla extract?

While it is possible to use any vodka for making vanilla extract, it is recommended to choose a neutral and high-proof vodka.

A vodka with at least 40% alcohol by volume (ABV) is preferable, as the higher alcohol content helps extract and preserve the flavors from the vanilla beans.

It’s advisable to avoid flavored or lower-proof vodkas to ensure a pure and unadulterated vanilla extract. The choice of vodka can impact the overall quality and flavor of the vanilla extract.

What is considered the best vanilla?

The term “best vanilla” can refer to different products depending on context. In the context of making vanilla extract, the best vanilla refers to the vanilla beans themselves.

Madagascar Bourbon vanilla beans are often considered among the best for making vanilla extract due to their rich and creamy flavor profile. Tahitian vanilla beans are another popular choice, offering a floral and fruity character.

The best vanilla extract is often homemade, using high-quality vanilla beans and a neutral, high-proof vodka. Some well-regarded commercial vanilla extracts also use these premium vanilla varieties.

The Best Vanilla Vodka

Many enthusiasts consider vodka the most versatile spirit for making refreshing and vibrant cocktails. However, the food and other ingredients can barely mask ethanol’s biting and harsh taste in the drink. Instead of strong and plain vodka, flavored varieties like vanilla have become an alternative.

The vanilla flavor most commonly comes from plants grown in Madagascar, with a high concentration of vanillin that produces the sweet, warm and creamy palate. You can create different cocktails with this flavor though you have to be mindful of the nutrition information of the food ingredients you will have in the mix.

References:

  1. https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/trends/lifestyle-trends/the-tippling-point-the-absolut-joy-of-swedish-vodka-7535921.html
  2. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sean-diddy-combs-french-montana-and-the-makers-of-ciroc-ultra-premium-vodka-deliver-a-new-indulgent-experience-with-the-launch-of-ciroc-french-vanilla-300537183.html
  3. https://www.forbes.com/sites/katiebell/2015/02/03/the-secret-to-grey-goose-and-making-the-worlds-best-vodka/
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