Ketel One Botanical Cucumber & Mint

As a whiskey drinker (whatever that signifies) and someone who smugly dismisses vodka enthusiasts, I was surprised by what I tasted when the ambassador at a whiskey event offered samples of the new Ketel One botanicals. The aroma is predominantly cucumber with a hint of mint (unexpectedly). The palate offers much of the same. You might wonder why I purchased this. For our beach house trips, I thought it would be an ideal light and refreshing drink served over ice, and it is indeed just that: light, crisp, and refreshing.

Scents of fresh cucumber, uncrushed mint leaves, and broken twigs. Also a bit of black pepper and grain. The cucumber is less prominent in the initial taste, and the mint reappears on the finish and aftertaste. The flavor that takes the place of the cucumber is similar to watercress.

A well-rounded, flavored Vodka from the Netherlands, crafted from wheat and triple distilled in copper pot stills. It's then infused with cucumber and mint, leaving a delicate finish of medium duration. Sampled March / August 2020.

An ideal warm-weather beverage! I only wish it had a slightly higher alcohol content. I mix it with tonic, a small dash of St. Germaine, and plenty of lime. Perfect for hot days!!

Sampled neat and with club soda. The cucumber flavor seems past its prime and overpowers the mint. The ethanol burn is very mild, but the flavors are too intense for my preference.

Excellent cucumber flavor and scent, complemented by non-intrusive mint notes. Pairs wonderfully with club soda.