Vodka Surprise

[rider4life]

I'm not a big fan of many vodkas, mainly because the flavour of them is harsh. To me the harshness reminds me of cheap alcohol and it's not pleasant. When I do drink vodka it's typically Belvedere and in small quantities and it's a bit expensive up here. On the weekend I was introduced to EFFIN Vodka. I was shocked by the smoothness and flavour (or lack thereof). This to me is the perfect vodka - something that has no harsh smell or taste, and no burn at all. Mixed up great with a few tests (my own maple martini recipe, basic screwdriver and fuzzy naval) and even as a shot it was good. I'm impressed!

One thing I noticed was that this vodka is a wheat vodka. Typically vodka is made with potatoes so I'm curious if that's why there's such an improvement (to me) in the quality of the drink. Anyone else tried Effin out yet?

Cheers,

M.

 

[intotheforge]

I haven't tried Effin. I would guess that the good quality has more to do with process than ingredient. In my experience, potato vodka is usually better than wheat or rye vodka. So, Effin must be doing something a little different. Anyhow, congrats on finding one you like. I have two that I like which are also a bit pricey. I'll look for Effin soon. Was the price reasonable?

 

[Mick]

One thing I noticed was that this vodka is a wheat vodka. Typically vodka is made with potatoes so I'm curious if that's why there's such an improvement (to me) in the quality of the drink. Anyone else tried Effin out yet?

Cheers,

M.

Here is a list of vodkas and what they are made from if you want to look for more that are similar

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_vodkas

 

[rider4life]

I haven't tried Effin. I would guess that the good quality has more to do with process than ingredient. In my experience, potato vodka is usually better than wheat or rye vodka. So, Effin must be doing something a little different. Anyhow, congrats on finding one you like. I have two that I like which are also a bit pricey. I'll look for Effin soon. Was the price reasonable?

Cost for the bottle was a similar price to Smirinoff (like swill...) up here so very cheap. Paid $35 for a 750mL bottle I believe? Also note that I spelled it wrong, it's EFFEN, not EFFIN.

Cheers,

M.

 

[rider4life]

Here is a list of vodkas and what they are made from if you want to look for more that are similar

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_vodkas

Thanks for the tip! Problem is that EFFEN isn't listed. I'm going to go through and see what's similar to Belvedere though, maybe see if anything else tastes similar and is available up here for cheaper.

Cheers,

M.

 

[Kazeryu]

One thing I noticed was that this vodka is a wheat vodka. Typically vodka is made with potatoes so I'm curious if that's why there's such an improvement (to me) in the quality of the drink.

This is a common misconception. As someone else has already pointed out with that wikipedia list, potato-based vodka is in the minority and can actually be quite difficult to find.

 

[blary54]

If you get a chance to try Reyka vodka(from Iceland)...its fantastic. Sometimes Ill just pour it neat with a slice of lemon. Titos and Reyka are my two favorite.

 

[Antares600]

I've had Effen before. Yes it is very smooth over traditional vodkas.

 

[BlackBard]

Thanks for the tip! Problem is that EFFEN isn't listed. I'm going to go through and see what's similar to Belvedere though, maybe see if anything else tastes similar and is available up here for cheaper.

Cheers,

M.

According to Effen's web site, their vodka is made from wheat.

It is priced at $19.99 for 750 ml at my local Bevmo.

 

[rider4life]

It is priced at $19.99 for 750 ml at my local Bevmo.

Ya...that's why I love going to the US for an overnight stay. Liquor is SO MUCH cheaper! Ours has a ton of taxes built into the prices. Mind you, the taxes in this case are actually put to good use - they go towards anti-drinking and driving ads, rehab and medical expenses for alcoholics/drunks that do stupid crap. Oh and the people they (potentially) hurt.

Cheers,

M.