10 Best Vodka Brands

Searching For The Best Vodka Brands

Since kid and teen drinking can lead to a ton of health and social issues, it’s important to stick to the laws of your country.

• USA: 21 years old
• UK: 18 years old
• Canada: 19 years old

Vodka goes with anything—a sunny day, an exotic juice, a solo dance party…when the mood for something strong strikes, vodka is an easy, reliable go-to. Loved for its simple, clean taste, good vodka is smooth, crisp, versatile, and can be sipped on the rocks. Not all meet the mark, but the best vodka brands do.

A classic mix of approachable and luxury names, we’ve sorted through the sea of vodka brands and picked our top 10 faves. Grab your favorite glass and recipe, and remember to drink responsibly.

10 Best Vodka Brands

1. Absolut

One of the most recognized names on this list of best vodka brands, Absolut is chosen for its affordable price yet smooth and clean taste. It’s made in southern Sweden and is part of a group called Pernod Ricard located in France.

Absolut was founded in 1979 in Sweden, making its vodka from Swedish winter wheat. It’s column distilled to give it a neutral flavor. What does that mean? That its vodka is incredibly versatile and mixes well with just about anything.

An easy pick when you’re in a rush at the liquor store, Absolut also comes in fruity flavors like Citrus and Vanilla. The brand even makes a peppery infusion for cocktails that need a little kick.

Recently launching its Juice line, creative cocktail lovers will delight in flavors like Pear Elderflower. Enjoy a bottle of the classic spirit for $21.

Highlights

• Offers flavors, juices, spritzes, and classic
• Swedish winter wheat
• Column distilled
• Affordable
• Made in Sweden

2. Grey Goose

A premium brand chosen by the elite, Grey Goose has a reputation for being the perfect vodka—whether that’s enjoyed straight or added to orange juice. Incredibly mixable, it’s made from French wheat and uses five-column distillation. The result? A slightly sweet, versatile vodka loved by the in-crowd.

The iconic company was founded in 1997 by Sidney Grand and Francois Thibault. Bacardi bought it back in 2004, but Thibault’s distillation process still gives the vodka a distinct difference from others and one that brings out the natural flavors of its ingredients.

Grey Goose makes a handful of flavored vodkas as well, including Le Citron, L’Orange, and La Poire (pear). Its more recent release includes Essences, a collection of botanically-infused vodkas that bring together sweet fruits and aromatic herbs.

Enjoy a 750 ml bottle of its classic vodka for $36.

Highlights

• Classic and flavored vodkas
• Made from French wheat
• 5-column distillation
• Sweet, clean flavor

3. SVEDKA

For SVEDKA, it’s all about freshness. There’s something vibrant and light about this vodka brand that carries through from its colorful imagery to its crisp vodka that mixes well with your favorites.

You’ll discover both flavored vodkas and Tropic Tea Spritzes in its collection of products, though its classic unflavored vodka is enjoyed for its versatility and lightness. Founded in 1998 by Guillaume Cuvelier in Sweden, SVEDKA is a super popular vodka brand in the US, loved for its carefree attitude.

Made from winter wheat and crystalline water that brings softness and lightness, SVEDKA is made with a continuous distillation process that keeps the ingredients moving. Live in the moment with a 750 ml bottle of SVEDKA vodka for $15.

Highlights

• Variety of flavors and spritzes
• Made in the USA
• Smooth tasting
• Continuous distillation
• Very affordable

4. SKYY

A San-Franciscan brand, SKYY embodies a free-spirited approach to living. Smooth and classy, the blue bottled favorite has had luxury appeal since its launch in 1992. It all started with a quest to make the best martini possible—one that didn’t cause hangovers.

After totally nailing that goal thanks to a chemist and an innovative distillation process, the brand went on to launch its four times distilled and three times filtered vodka to the masses. SKYY is loved for its classic unflavored vodka, but it also makes tasty flavor infusions like blood orange, watermelon, and pineapple.

Offered for an incredibly affordable price despite being such a high-end product, it was a no-brainer for this list of best vodka brands. Grab a 750 ml bottle for $18.

Highlights

• Offers infusion flavors and classic unflavored
• Innovative distillation process
• Made with Pacific minerals
• Helps reduce hangovers
• Affordable

5. Belvedere

Known as one of the smoothest vodkas out there, Belvedere was launched in 1996 and has made a name for itself as a top-shelf pick despite being so affordable. Just ask James Bond—it was the official vodka for the 24th 007 movie, Spectre.

What gives it such a smooth character? Made in Poland, its unique taste comes from Dankowskie Gold Rye which lends a softness, while Polish water and a 4-column distillation process deliver a spirited taste. After distilling, Belvedere vodka is filtered through charcoal to keep things pure.

A vodka that’s truly a joy to drink without mixers, it’s said to be an aromatic choice with notes of lemon zest and black pepper. You’ll also find unique naturally infused varieties in its collection, such as Blackberry & Lemongrass.

Enjoy a 750 ml bottle for $35.

Highlights

• Classic and naturally infused vodka options
• Incredibly smooth
• 4-column distillation
• Charcoal filtration
• Aromatic
• High value

6. CÎROC

CÎROC is unlike any other name on this list of vodka brands. Why? Because instead of being made from wheat, corn, or potatoes, it’s actually made from grapes. But not just any grapes—ugni blanc and mauzac blanc grapes that are grown in the Gaillac region of France.

Distilled five times (the last time in a custom-made copper pot), its vodka is then filtered through charcoal to give it purity and an inherently unique flavor. The brand’s unflavored vodka is a top choice among rock-sippers, but its range of delicious flavored vodkas (think: toasted marshmallow, peach, and white grape) work well with anything you mix them with.

So who’s the face behind the brand? Rapper and record producer Sean Combs—the 30+ crowd will always know him as Puff Daddy. But though he’s the name associated with CÎROC, it was actually founded by Jean-Sébastien Robicquet, so the whole french grape thing kind of makes sense. A 750 ml bottle is about $35.

Highlights

• Range of tasty flavors (and classic)
• Made from French grapes
• Distilled 5 times
• Charcoal filtered
• Unique taste

7. Tito’s Vodka

Founded back in 1997, Tito’s started with Bert “Tito” Beveridge making his vodka in pot stills he built himself, hence, the name. Perhaps one of the more popular vodkas of today, it’s made from corn in small batches so it’s totally gluten-free.

With a clean, smooth, and crisp taste, this Texas-based vodka is an affordable pick that always delivers. Today, Tito’s still distills its vodka in a pot, filtering it through activated charcoal. They say that using a pot still requires a ton of added work, so this labor of love may be why people notice a difference in taste.

With just the one vodka in its collection, Tito’s manages to win the hearts of vodka drinkers around the world. Get a 750 ml bottle for $21.

Highlights

• High quality, low price
• Handmade in a pot still
• Clean, smooth, and crisp
• Gluten-free

8. Crystal Head

Crystal Head vodka may be chosen by those who love the cool look of its skull-shaped bottle, but it’s known for an intriguing sweetness said to taste like cake frosting. Founded in 2008 by actor Dan Aykroyd, Globefill Inc is now the proud owner of the brand.

Made in Canada with Newfoundland glacial water and peaches and cream corn, even though the vodka has notes of vanilla, peach, and black pepper, it’s technically an unflavored vodka. After distilling, the vodka is filtered through quartz crystals. It’s no wonder this brand has won numerous awards in Canada and Russia.

You’ll find a total of three varieties within the brand’s collection, including Onyx, made from Blue Weber agave, and Aurora, made from English wheat.

Bottled in the company’s classic skull shape, Crystal Head has launched several artistic varieties of the bottle, like the rainbow classic for Pride and a hand-decorated art bottle by John Alexander. Grab a 750 ml classic bottle for your next special event for $59.

Highlights

• Three types of unflavored vodka
• Sweet, smooth taste
• Artistic bottles
• Award-winning
• Filtered through crystal quartz
• Made in Canada

9. Smirnoff

This wouldn’t be a list of best vodka brands without Smirnoff. Perhaps the most iconic name on this list, it has roots that trace back to the 1800s when Pyotr Arsenievich Smirnov started distilling vodka in his stills in Russia. Today, it’s sold in over 130 countries.

Smirnoff may be loved by 20-somethings for its sweet coolers, but it’s an easy go-to for any entry-level vodka lover. Smirnoff No. 21 is an award-winning vodka, grabbing double gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2009.

Said to have a big flavor, a dry finish, and premium smoothness, Smirnoff vodka is triple distilled before it’s filtered 10 times. Ideal for on-the-rocks sipping and mixing, it’s also certified Kosher and gluten-free. You can get a 750 ml classic bottle for $18.

Highlights

• Range of flavored vodkas
• Classic vodka
• Award-winning
• Triple distilled
• Filtered 10x
• Affordable

10. Stillhouse Classic

The all-American vodka in a can, you can’t get any more rugged than Stillhouse Classic. It’s not just any can though, if you’ve ever tried this all-natural vodka, then you know it comes in a retro-style stainless steel can with a screw top that gives it a curiously attractive edge.

The brand makes whisky and bourbon alongside its gluten-free, adventure-friendly vodka. Made from 100% estate-grown corn and limestone water in the USA, Stillhouse filters its vodka through sugar maple charcoal to give it a distinct taste.

Though Stillhouse looks like a brand that’s been around since the ‘50s, it’s actually one of the newer names on this list, founded in 2016 by Brad Beckerman and rapper G-Eazy aka Gerald Gillum. The cost of a 750 ml can hovers around $30.

Highlights

• Just one classic vodka
• Stainless steel can (beach and nature-safe!)
• Chills quickly
• Sugar maple charcoal-filtered
• Gluten-free, all-natural
• Made in the USA

How To Shop For The Best Vodka

You came in search of the best vodka brands, and we answered. But our job isn’t over just yet. You’ve learned who the top 10 names in spirits are, but unless you plan on trying them all, you may want to put a little more thought into your decision.

Below, we’ll take you through a list of what to consider while you shop through the best vodka brands.

Brand

Some people see a bottle and immediately vibe off of how it looks. Others go off of brand credibility. Making their selection, they’re either pleasantly surprised to find it’s just what they want or they hate it.

Buying based on packaging or name is part of identifying with brand ethos, but more so, you may want to read up on its backstory. Vodka is all about ingredients, filtration, distillation, and location.

If you’re dead set on buying American-made vodka, then that will knock quite a few options off your list. If you’d prefer to stick to gluten-free and organic ingredients, that list will be dwindled down further. Knowing what you like and want is an easy way to find exactly what you need.

Flavor

Almost all of the best vodka brands offer flavored options, but not all of them. If you prefer a little fruitiness with your liquor, then it’d be a good idea to search for one that makes flavors you like. If you prefer simple, classic vodka, refer to the other points here to help narrow down your options.

Occasion

Perusing the best vodka brands for something special? Then you may want to look into top-shelf names. Though all of the names on this list are popular, some are made with organic ingredients, have special artistic bottles, and cost a little more. These make great gifts.

If you’re just searching for affordable weekend liquor, you may be willing to lower your gaze. The reputation of the brand may not be one of luxury, but you’ll still end up with a solid, reliable vodka that does the trick.

Alcohol content

Every vodka on this list has a 40% ABV and that’s because the US made it mandatory that all vodka products make that number their minimum alcohol content. In the EU, it’s 37.5%. While you won’t find any with an ABV higher than 40% (80 proof) on this list of best vodka brands, they do exist.

Mixing

So here’s the thing about great vodka: it’s designed to be enjoyed by itself. If you’re gagging at the mere thought of sipping the clear astringent liquid on its own, it’s probably because you’ve never had a premium vodka.

But while great vodka can be enjoyed on the rocks, the liquor is renowned for being one of the easiest, if not the easiest, options to mix with literally anything. You’ll find a few of the best vodka brands make spritzers and juicy mixes, but if you’re planning to play mixologist, look for one with a neutral flavor that stands up against other flavors.

Budget

One of the cool things about vodka is that it doesn’t have to be expensive to taste great. It’s one of the most affordable liquors, so you’ll have quite a range to pick from when it comes to selecting your favorite brand.

You’ll notice that the best vodka brands are mostly divided between the $10-$20 and $30-$60 range. Keep occasions and brand ethos in mind, then pick something that resonates with you from within your preferred price range.

FAQ

Which vodka is the smoothest?

Vodka has long been associated with a rough afterburn and isopropyl alcohol taste—but that’s not all vodkas. Just like wine, the taste, mouthfeel, and smoothness of vodka vary from brand to brand.

We combed the web to answer this question, and the consensus appears to be Belvedere Vodka. Described as velvety smooth with a top-shelf flavor, this brand is chosen by many who enjoy their vodka straight. It’s not too expensive either.

Is vodka good for your health?

To an extent, yes, vodka is good for your health. But hear us out. Just like most things in life, it’s all about moderation, and even too much of a good thing can become a bad thing.

In general, vodka has been said to promote blood flow and circulation which may help protect you against coronary heart diseases. Studies have shown that those who drink a low to moderate amount of alcohol have a lower risk of heart disease and a reduced risk of stroke.

Vodka is also lower in calories than other alcohol is, clocking in at 64 calories per fl oz. For comparison, whisky has 70 per fl oz while Amaretto has 78. Though the difference is slight, it all adds up.

How do you drink vodka?

Just turned 21? You’re probably thinking the answer to this question is to chug it. We don’t recommend that. Vodka is about enjoying the moment, and to us, that means being mindful, responsible, and making memories.

To get the most out of your vodka drinking experience, enjoy the smooth, clean liquor in any of these five ways:

1. Enjoy it straight: Again, no, not by downing it. Since we’re recommending the best vodka brands, these products are designed to be savored. Enjoy it at room temperature to truly experience the full mouthfeel and complexity of the spirit.
2. Make a cocktail: The most popular way to enjoy vodka, cocktail options are endless. The liquor goes just as well with orange juice as it does with iced tea.
3. Sip it on the rocks: Pouring vodka over ice gives it a thicker consistency. Enjoying it this way also takes away the burn normally associated with the spirit.
4. Knock back a glass Russian style: In Russia, vodka is sipped with appetizers that accent the drink’s flavors and vice versa. The same principle as wine, drinking your vodka alongside recommended pairings brings out the best of both worlds.
5. Get creative: You can buy flavored vodkas, or you can make your own. Add herbs, fruits, and extracts to create new and exciting flavor blends.

When can you drink vodka?

Depending on where you live, when you can drink vodka depends on how old you are. The legal age to drink alcohol is different in many countries, and it’s set in place for very important reasons.

• China: 18 years old
• Russia: 18 years old for most liquor, 21 years old for vodka

Final Thoughts

Since you’ve reached the end of this list of best vodka brands, you can pretty much consider yourself a vodka buff now.

I hope you’re leaving with a few new names to discover, as well as some insight into the world of drinking vodka. No matter where or when your next drink happens, savor every sip and always drink responsibly.

How We Chose The Best Vodka Brands

Before choosing any brand, we scour the web and all the biggest e-tailers to ensure we know all the available options on the market. We look at customer reviews, star ratings, brand ethos, processes, materials, accessibility, and so much more. We weigh the pros and cons, so you don’t have to, helping you make informed shopping decisions.

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