Slushi's Select: Vodka

Working at the LCBO has given me the opportunity to learn about all varieties of wine, beer and spirits. There is alot that is involved in the process of creating a quality product. To know which is a quality vodka is based on many things including what ingredients are used to create it and how many times it is distilled. As a customer service representative it's my job to recommend product based on the customers personal taste, price, popularity and personal opinion. The past 3 years has allowed me to sample a variety of alcoholic beverages ranging from bargain brand to top shelf and personally price isn't always a factor when you are looking for quality.

Vodka is a traditional spirit created from starchy/sugary ingredients such as:

• Potatoes
• Corn
• Wheat/Barley
• Fruits

Depending on what it's made from can determine the subtle tastes involved with unflavoured vodka. Although you can't really taste vodka, it can influence the mix and the strength of regret from the hangover the next morning. 

Distillation is also important when determining a smooth, quality vodka. Distillation is the process of converting the water and starch into alcohol. The higher number of times the vodka is distilled, the smoother and crisper the shot will be. Smoother vodka also blends mix beverages more discretely and will prevent the rubbing alcohol taste some cheaper vodka's may have. 

                                                         

                                                              *cough* Smirnoff *cough*

As a student, knowing that you've spent your money wisely on a decent quality spirit is important. The following list are just a few of my favourites based on personal experience, price and quality. 

1. Tito's Handmade Vodka 

Quality: 9/10

Price: $34.85

# Of Distillations: 6 

Alcohol/Vol: 40.0%

Ingredient: Corn Based

Country: Texas, USA

Tito's Handmade Vodka is one of my personal recommendations based smoothness and price. To compare it to a more popular brand such as Grey Goose or Belvedere, both are only distilled only 4 times and cost $50 each. With a smooth finish and reasonable price, I strongly recommend this vodka and it's my personal favourite. 

2. Purity Vodka

Quality: 10/10

Price: $49.40

# Of Distillations: 34

Alcohol/Vol: 40.0%

Ingredient: Wheat & Barley

Country: Sweden

Purity vodka's is the vodka you bring out for special occasions and celebrations. Costing the same as Grey Goose, this vodka blows it out of the water when it comes to quality and smoothness. Distilled 34 times this vodka is incredibly smooth and should be enjoyed straight. This vodka is not always available all year long so if you happen to see a bottle in an LCBO, I suggest saving it. 

3.  Presidential Standard Vodka

Quality: ?/10

Price: $25.75

# Of Distillations: 8

Alcohol/Vol: 40.0%

Ingredient: Grains

Country: Ukraine

Presidential Standard Vodka is a new to the LCBO and was released January 24, 2015. I personally have not had the opportunity to sample this vodka but, I welcome anyone who wants to enjoy it with me. I saw this at work and was astonished that a vodka distilled 8 times is cheaper than Smirnoff which is only distilled 3 times. Hopefully this product will not be delisted from the LCBO and it will be available all year. 

Slushi Suggestion:

 Freeze your vodka and shot glasses for smooth vodka that goes down like water.

Vodka is a versatile spirit and creates a party from any drink it's mixed into without distorting the taste. Here are a few beverages I've discovered that I suggest trying.

Vodka/Ginger Ale/Aloe Vera Juice

1. Put ice into an empty glass and pour 1-2 shots of vodka.
2. Fill 1/4 cup with ginger ale. 
3. Mix 1/4 cup of aloe vera pulp. (regular,pomegranate,coconut,mango)

[This drink is great for keeping hydrated and preventing crippling hangovers] 

Vodka/Cranberry/Lime

1. Put ice into empty glass and pour 1-2 shots of vodka.
2. Fill 3/4 with cranberry juice.
3. Cut lime into wedges and crush into drink.

[Simple and sophisticated drink]

Screwdriver (Orange Juice)

1. Put  ice into empty glass and pour 1-2 shots of vodka.
2. Fill 3/4 cup with orange juice.

[The orange juice eliminates most of the burn from vodka so this drink can be deceptive]

As an advertising/marketing student I've learned alot about what's involved with selling a product. This program has taught me to not always go for the most popular or expensive product, but to do research to make sure I'm getting a quality product for a cheap price. I hope my advice helps people make wise purchasing decisions the next time they are looking to celebrate with a nice, smooth shot of vodka. 

-Thanks-

Slushi