The bloody mary, with its savory and spicy flavors, is the quintessential companion for an epic brunch. It’s a vibrant concoction that explodes with flavor — the tang of tomato juice, the zing of citrus, and the kick of horseradish.
However, amid this medley of flavors lies a crucial element, often overlooked: Vodka. It’s the unsung hero that binds all the elements together.
Selecting the appropriate vodka can enhance the taste of your bloody mary from good to excellent, making it a harmonious mixture of flavors that invigorate your taste buds. Whether you prefer a smooth and subtle vodka or one with a touch of personality, there’s a perfect option out there.
Join us as we unveil the best vodka for bloody mary. From smooth and neutral to peppery and complex, we’ll explore a diverse range of vodkas, each offering its unique nuance to your favorite brunch-time cocktail.
What You Need to Know About Vodka
Before we delve into the vodka vault and unearth the perfect spirit for your bloody mary, let’s take a moment to appreciate this versatile spirit at its core.
Unlike its flamboyant tequila or cognac counterparts, vodka has no dramatic history or complex flavor profile. Instead, its beauty lies in its clean canvas, subtle neutrality, and ability to harmonize with other ingredients.
Vodka: An Overview
The exact origin story of vodka is a bit like a well-shaken mystery. Both Poland and Russia lay claim to its invention. The first mentions of “wódka” in Poland date back to the late 14th century, referring to alcohol-based medicines and cosmetics made from frozen wine.
Meanwhile, in Russia, a similar spirit called “aqua vitae” (Latin for “water of life”) emerged around the same time, though it was likely more akin to a grain-based brandy than the vodka we know today.
Over the centuries, both Polish and Russian iterations of vodka evolved. Initially used for medicinal purposes, they gradually transitioned into a beverage of recreation, particularly among the nobility. By the 16th century, vodka production became more widespread in both countries, with families even crafting their own variations at home.
By the 18th and 19th centuries, vodka had become a popular drink across Eastern Europe, eventually spreading its wings to other parts of the world. Its clean taste and neutrality made it a versatile spirit, readily adapting to diverse cocktails and culinary uses.
Fast forward to the 1920s, and the world witnessed the birth of a legendary partnership. In a New York bar, bartender Fernand Petiot invented the bloody mary, combining vodka with tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. With vodka as its base, this iconic cocktail instantly captured hearts (and stomachs) and cemented vodka’s place as a cocktail superstar.
Today, the neutral yet nimble spirit remains a top-shelf staple, the perfect clear canvas for countless cocktails, from martinis to mules. Yet, its most iconic role is in the beloved bloody mary.
How to Choose the Best Vodka for Bloody Mary?
Finding the ideal vodka for your bloody mary is like selecting the perfect dance partner. You want someone who complements your style and enhances the experience without stealing the spotlight.
Here are three essential things to keep in mind:
- Smoothness is vital: Vodka isn’t the lead actor in a bloody mary. Its role is to act as a smooth and neutral canvas, allowing other flavors to shine without being drowned out by its own personality.
- Consider your spice level: A neutral vodka is a good choice if you prefer the tomato and spices take center stage in your bloody mary. Alternatively, consider vodkas with a hint of spice, like pepper or fennel, if you enjoy a bit of extra oomph.
- Review texture and mouthfeel: Pay attention to the texture and mouthfeel of the vodka as you taste it neat or in a cocktail. You want something with minimal burn or harshness on the finish for a great experience.
In addition to the above, quality matters when it comes to vodka. Look for brands that use high-quality ingredients and employ meticulous distillation processes. Investing in a mid-range or premium vodka can make a noticeable difference in the overall taste and smoothness of your bloody mary, so you don’t necessarily need to splurge on the most expensive bottle.
Most importantly, try different vodkas to discover your perfect match. Ask your local liquor store for recommendations or utilize online resources to explore diverse options.
What Does Vodka Cost?
One of vodka’s main appeals lies in its accessibility and affordability compared to darker spirits like whiskey or rum. Still, prices range widely based on brand, source ingredients, and production methods.
For a basic 750ml bottle, you can expect to pay between $10 to $35 for lower-tier and mid-range vodkas made from grain or potatoes. More premium brands crafted from grapes or uncommon grains like quinoa or honey can cost $40 to $75.
Top-shelf vodkas explicitly designed for bloody marys — often sold in gift sets with savory seasoning blends — land in the $75 to $100 range. These include brands like Star Trek Spirits’ Romulan Ale Vodka or Reyka’s Iceland Limited Edition.
When dining out, expect to pay a premium for a bloody mary compared to making it at home. The price can range from $8 to $15 or even higher, depending on the establishment, the specific vodka selection used, and the drink’s complexity.
Truth be told, vodka was and is one of the most affordable and accessible bases for DIY bloody marys and a wide range of other cocktails.
Where Can You Buy Vodka?
Local liquor stores, supermarkets, and specialty beverage retailers typically carry a wide selection of vodka brands, ranging from well-known favorites to artisanal and craft options.
Additionally, many bars and restaurants feature vodka prominently on their drink menus, offering patrons the opportunity to enjoy their favorite cocktails or try new creations crafted with premium spirits.
If you prefer convenience, you can skip the legwork and shop top-rated vodka brands online from the comfort of your fuzzy slippers. Spirits delivery services like Speakeasy Co allow you to browse a curated selection of vodka brands, place your order, and have your favorite spirits delivered directly to your doorstep – with just a few clicks.
The Best Vodkas for Bloody Mary
SKYY Vodka
Image sourced from: https://flaviar.com/products/skyy-vodka-750
MSRP: $16.99
Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Tasting Notes: Smooth, Clean, Minerals
Our Rating: 5/5
The best thing about a Bloody Mary cocktail is that the ingredients you mix in it do the heavy-lifting. This means that you can opt for a non-flavored, budget-friendly vodka to serve as the base for your cocktail, which is where SKYY Vodka comes into play. For its low price, it's hard to find a better-quality vodka that you can drink straight, use for shots, or mix into your next Bloody Mary.
While we love this vodka for its price, that doesn't mean it's not quality. It's distilled four times and triple-filtered through California limestone, which is where its smooth and inoffensive flavor come from.
Pros:
- Quadruple distilled and filtered three times.
- Filtered through California limestone.
- Competitive pricing makes it an excellent choice for DIY cocktails.
Cons:
- Some may find the finish slightly harsh.
Ketel One Vodka
MSRP: $26.99
Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Tasting Notes: Citrus, Herbs, Spices.
Our Rating: 4.5/5
Ketel One Oranje Vodka, made from 100% European, non-GMO winter wheat, is renowned for its soft and smooth taste, versatility in cocktails, and crowd-pleasing qualities. Created using column and pot stills, this vodka stands out for its use of wheat, leading to a softer, smoother taste that appeals to those who enjoy a velvety mouthfeel.
While Ketel One produces a lot of clear vodka with no additives, we love this orange spin on the vodka for your next bloody Mary. In fact, the flavors of bright orange crispiness and zest can elevate your cocktail.
Pros:
- Soft and smooth taste.
- Crafted by professionals with extensive experience.
- Affordable price point.
- Subtle and balanced flavor profile.
- Its clean and balanced profile makes it an excellent choice for various cocktails.
Cons:
- The orange flavor isn't for everyone
- The soft texture may not appeal to people who prefer drinking leaner vodka.
Vdka 6100
Image sourced from: https://flaviar.com/products/vdka-6100-750
MSRP: $28.99
Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Tasting Notes: Bright, Clean, Lemon, Vanilla.
Our Rating: 4.5/5
Looking for a more premium options to mix in your next Bloody Mary? Well, you can't go wrong with Vdka 6100. This well-made vodka is smooth and a little zesty with lemon and citrus flavor notes, which gives it the perfect kick for your next Bloody Mary cocktail.
You'll find that Vdka 6100 gets its smooth flavor from the New Zealand and the whey from cows; only a handful of vodka distillers in the world use whey. The result is a uniquely smooth vodka that's affordable, tastes premium, and fits well in Bloody Marys or even when you drink it straight.
Pros:
- Smooth and clean flavor profile.
- Versatile and approachable.
- Competitive pricing.
- Made with New Zealand spring water and whey.
Cons:
- This clear vodka might seem one-dimensional to some palates seeking a more complex sipping experience.
Castle & Key Sacred Spring Vodka
MSRP: $30.00
Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Tasting Notes: Citrus, Vanilla Bean, Buttered Toast.
Our Rating: 4/5
The Sacred Spring Vodka from Castle & Key is another compelling option for those seeking a distinctive and well-crafted spirit. Its unique mash bill, smooth character, and association with a renowned distillery make it a worthy addition to any home bar.
The vodka delivers a light and sweet aroma with hints of citrus and cashew. Its clean citrus notes, followed by vanilla bean and a hint of buttered toast, give it a distinct character, a lingering sweetness, and a rich and silky finish. It’s an excellent addition for sipping and mixing cocktails like bloody mary.
Pros:
- The unique mash bill contributes to a slightly sweet and complex flavor profile that sets it apart.
- Meticulous distillation process.
- Smooth and easy-to-drink spirit.
- Suitable for sipping neat and in cocktails.
- Distilled using water sourced from the historic Castle & Key distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky.
Cons:
- The delicate flavor profile might not appeal to those who prefer a more robust or intense flavor profile.
- Limited availability outside of select markets and regions.
Smirnoff No. 21 Vodka
image sourced from: https://flaviar.com/products/smirnoff-no-21-vodka-750
MSRP: $14.99
Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Tasting Notes: Soft and Sweet
Our Rating: 4/5
Smirnoff has been around since the late 19th century, and it shows based on how smooth, consistent, and delicious their vodka can be. That said, Smirnoff No. 21 Vodka takes this to the next level; it's made with non-GMO corn, distilled three times, and 10-times filtered. What's more, it's one of the company's flagship vodka products so you don't have to worry about availability as much.
Smirnoff No. 21 Vodka is also a renowned vodka. It won Gold at the 2019 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Double Gold at the 2019 Las Vegas Global Spirit Awards.
Pros:
- Made with non-GMO corn.
- Triple-distilled and 10-times filtered.
- Award-winning spirit.
- Perfect for both neat sipping and cocktails.
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- Flavor is neutral, so it doesn't add too much flavor to your Bloody Mary.
Vodka Is the Perfect Base for a “Bloody” Brilliant Time
Whether your taste tends toward peppery and complex or super smooth, remember, the ideal choice ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. Experiment with different options, explore the diverse flavor profiles we’ve discussed, and be bold and creative. In fact, you can even change up the flavor of a traditional Bloody Mary by opting for the best gin instead of vodka.
The beauty of the Bloody Mary lies in its versatility, allowing you to tailor the drink to your unique palate. So, grab your favorite shaker, unleash your inner mixologist, and embark on a journey of discovery and delicious possibilities. Here’s to unforgettable brunches, lively conversations, and the perfect bloody mary.
