British vodka is very often overlooked by the British public. Instead, we seem to be much more allured by the glitz and promise of Russian, Scandinavian or even French brands. But, as big a shame as this is, premium British vodkas are slowly debunking this habit. Trouncing prestigious awards left, right and centre over the past several years, it appears Britain is much better at crafting the “clear stuff” than we are given credit for. From the crystal-laden to the whole-milk-based, Dan Cooper has scoured the country to bring you six of the best British vodkas available
Quintessentially Vodka
With a stylish bottle design from Quintessentially Spirits and a flawless taste from distillers G&J Greenall, this exceptional collaboration has all the hallmarks that an outstanding vodka demands. If you frequent some of London’s ritziest watering holes, expect to spot this bastion of luxury behind the bar. 70cl / 42% ABV / £45 harveynichols.co.uk
Notes: Exceptionally pure and dry on the palate, with quite the punchy aftertaste. The finish is airy and reminiscent of cracked black pepper.
Adnams Longshore Finest Cut Vodka
Making storms at last year’s International Wine & Spirit Competition, this exceptional British vodka prevailed over the reams of Russian and Polish front-runners, claiming the prize of World’s Best Vodka for 2014. Crafted using their unique three-grain wash, this Adnams release definitely pulled rank this year as a truly seminal spirit. 70cl / 48% ABV / £40 amazon.co.uk
Notes: Quite sweet and ridiculously smooth for its strength. A hint of creamy fudge informs the palate with a subtle finish.
Sipsmith Sipping Vodka
For those seeking a more refined vodka-drinking experience, co-founder of Sipsmith, Sam Galsworthy, describes their recent artisanal vodka as “sippability personified”. Distilled in copper with the best British barley, Sipsmith’s Sipping Vodka is a drink worth quaffing for those elegant winter soirées. 70cl / 40% ABV / £28.95 sipsmith.co.uk
Notes: Very bright notes resonate on the palate after an initially malleable taste. A truly immaculate and concerted drinking experience.
The Poshmakers AKA Vodka
You may have heard mention of AKA Vodka in the form of its full title – The Secret British Vodka also known as AKA Vodka. You may have not, granted it is meant to be a secret. But, all pomp and grandeur aside, the taste of this enigmatic release from London brand The Poshmakers is a magnificent one. Harkening back to a glorious age of decadence and 1960s “pop”, here is a vodka a little less ordinary. 70cl / 40% ABV / £35.99 amazon.co.uk
Notes: Beautifully rounded and full on the palate, with that distinctive British creaminess. The finish is fairly long (maybe not as long as its full title), but charmingly satisfying.
Black Cow Vodka
From the luscious pastures of Dorset, Black Cow is the world’s first vodka to be made from pure whole milk. If you’re obsessed with your cocktails and martinis, this Black Cow vodka possesses the flexibility, simplicity and ardour for an infinite amount of combinations. We highly recommend going for the Old-Fashioned with cranberry juice and bitters. 70cl / 40% / £32 blackcow.co.uk
Notes: Sweet and succinct, soon developing into overtones of rich vanilla. Extremely silky and smooth to the taste.
Diva Premium Vodka
Diva has recently championed the most expensive British vodka in the world amongst their catalogue. For more than £700,000, you can buy their most luxurious release: a triple-distilled vodka diamond-sand-filtered through an array of precious stones. The Scottish brand also offer a roster of less costly varieties, starting from £50 through to £3,000, each edition with varying tastes and crystals. 70cl / 40% ABV / £50-£700,000 divavodka.co.uk
Main image credit: Sipsmith Independent Distillers
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