Svedka Vodka (Sweden)

While going through many of my 50ml sample bottles, I discovered this imported vodka, which is certainly one of the less objectionable starting points given the other selections. I've never been fond of vodka, primarily because a grain neutral spirit made entirely from a single grain doesn't offer enough desirable flavor on its own. Consequently, I've associated drinking vodka with the sole desire to get intoxicated without taste, and few distilleries have managed to alter that perception with their vodka. Considering this is the imported Swedish version, the winter wheat might contribute to a noticeably smoother body, but I doubt it will impart much overall flavor. The aroma is indeed very neutral, with only a faint trace of red fruit and a rather strong ethanol presence. I just finished cleaning the toilets about an hour ago, and even though I aired out the house, this vodka carries that same aggressive nasal burn and cleaning chemical hint that the bleach did, as vodkas unfortunately often do. The flavor begins both soft and hot simultaneously, allowing the lower proof to carry the flavors, which turn out to be slightly oily baking spice, with an emphasis on spicy cinnamon. The finish is slightly dry and does have a faint fruitiness, but the spice still dominates overall. Strangely, repeated sips refine the finish into a dry maltiness rather than the expected softer, fruity, nutty winter wheat. Ultimately, this vodka is as neutral as most others on the market, offering nothing outstanding or unique to warrant reaching for it if cheaper alternatives are available. That said, the flavor was significantly spicier and more aggressive than anticipated, leading me to wonder about its performance in the flavored variants and at what proof those are bottled.

Among the superior cheap vodkas available. I favor it over Absolut, Skyy, or Smirnoff. While I won't often drink it neat, it's suitable for Bloody Marys, Salty Dogs, Moscow Mules, or White Russians. The burn isn't overpowering, and it possesses a slightly oily quality.

Nothing remarkably special, but also nothing particularly off-putting. It's hot, as expected even from the finest vodkas. Just fairly smooth and neutral. I suspect this would perform much better in a blind tasting.

This is brought out of the freezer by the mother-in-law for sipping. I question how many tastebuds remain after so much time doing this. The spirit is bitter and stings like undiluted alcohol.

Clear, with a lemon scent. The taste is peppery and full of spices with a hint of lemon. It would pair well with lemon or orange.

A pure, gluten-free vodka from Sweden, made with winter wheat and triple distilled for a clean finish. January 2023.