Vodka is one of the world's most favorite mixers. From martinis to Bloody Marys, Moscow mules and even the classic vodka and soda, when it comes to cocktails everyone has a go-to vodka.
One of the reasons we love vodka so much as a cocktail base is because, by definition, vodka has traditionally been identified as a 'neutral' spirit. According to the TTB, "Neutral spirits [are] distilled or treated after distillation with charcoal or other materials so as to be without distinctive character, aroma, taste, or color." Translation: Vodkas are basically tasteless. But a high proof means they've become essential to livening up pretty much any drink, without changing the flavor.
Yet a new definition has emerged, which means there are now new ways to really shake things up (or stir, if you prefer). The definition now defines vodka as a neutral spirit that may be treated with up to two grams per liter of sugar and up to one gram per liter of citric acid, which can add new levels of character to the previously widely-considered basic booze.
"When trying out a new vodka, the first thing I always look for is the smoothness of spirit," said Michael Johannesen, head mixologist at Watermark, a cocktail lounge and social club in Asbury Park, New Jersey that has been one of the trailblazers in redefining the scene in the beachside town. "Some vodkas can be extremely harsh to the taste and some are even brutal on the nose. The ones I tend to gravitate towards are the vodkas that go down easier or act as a great starting point for my mixtures."
Johannesen said if you can sit the spirit at room temperature and if it has its own character and base, then it's a quality product.
"In general," added Kara Newman, spirits editor for Wine Enthusiasts magazine and author of several cocktail books, "I think the best vodkas are about the texture, whether that means silky, velvety, or crisp and clean, rather than flavor, which tends to range from absolutely neutral to nuanced."
Mixologists and spirits experts have noted the subtitles of vodka for years. But now, with this new definition, perhaps it's high time we begin paying attention to the vodkas we're mixing into our own drinks.
Here are 11 of the best vodkas to reach for when serving up your favorite cocktails.