Absolut Vanilla

Nose: Butterscotch! Palate: A sweet introduction with vanilla and butterscotch flavors barely masking the ethanol base. It has a creamy texture. Finish: Brief. Faint caramel in the aftertaste. Wow! That was unexpected. After tasting Absolut Lime and Citron flavored vodkas, I anticipated this one would be pure vanilla essence, but it's nothing like that. Why didn't they just call it Butterscotch Vodka, because that's definitively what it is. Big, warm, substantial, and slightly floral, but the toffee notes are much more dominant. I suppose there's a similarity to the vanilla flavor found in Vanilla Coke, but this is truly something distinct and entirely its own. It's so artificial and peculiar that it's strangely captivating, yet unlike the Lime and Citron Absoluts (which are wonderfully smooth and incredibly easy to drink), this has some alcohol heat. It's adequate, and I'm sure there are numerous ways to enjoy it. Like all the Absoluts I've sampled so far, it has no significant flaws, but while the citrus versions pair well with tonic as gin substitutes, I don't see this working in that capacity. It might be good with coffee, and it could be excellent as the vodka in an espresso martini! I'm likely the least qualified person to evaluate this. I can only judge it based on my preferences, and this is a spirit I probably wouldn't use much. However, if you're seeking an interesting new mixer or something fun and distinctive for a party, you might rate it much more favorably. Tasted from a 50ml retail sample. “Above Average”: 80/100 (3 stars)

On its own, it's unremarkable, but when used in a Hunk martini, the vanilla flavor truly stands out. Recipe for Hunk Martini: 60 ml Vanilla Vodka 53 ml Pineapple Juice 15 ml Lime Juice 8 ml Sugar Syrup Combine all ingredients with ice, shake well, and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a Maraschino cherry.

A smooth vodka with a subtle grain aftertaste. The vanilla flavor is mellow and sweet, with just enough alcohol to give the drink character. Highly recommended, enjoyable on its own or in mixed drinks.

As anticipated, it's all vanilla in both aroma and flavor. However, it's not as sweet as I expected and comes across as somewhat harsh.

Good, has a kick but does taste like vanilla ice cream. I think it's best when mixed.

Pleasant vanilla flavor, quite mellow.