Absolute Vodka…the name says it all really. If you’re a vodka drinker then I have no doubt you’ll have had drop or two of this at least once and if you’re not then you’re missing out on a supreme drink.
Brewed originally in Ahus, Sweden by a Mr L.O.Smith in 1879 the brand is now sold worldwide and even has a large share of the Russian market!
Vodka is more traditionally associated with the Russian steppes but in fact it’s been distilled (to be precise) in Sweden and Finland for almost as long as it has been drunk in Russia.
Made using Swedish Winter Wheat (a hardier version of the wheat we grow here) and mountain spring water the drink produced is very clear (as a good vodka should be) but also very smooth. Far smoother than the supermarket’s own brands and even Smirnoff Blue label doesn’t compare to my palette.
You can't fail to notice the bottle either. While it looks like any other bottle, it doesn't really. The shape is very subtley different from standard bottles and while it looks much heavier that's just the effect of the very clear glass and the very clear vodka. With it's unusally shaped silver lid this one will sit on the shelf and not have to scream to get your attention.
Beware though; its 40% proof by volume and so has a kick to it as well. This is not a drink to be alone with – it’s far better appreciated with good company.
As a brand Absolut is now made in 6 distinct flavours –
Absolut Vodka (Original)
Absolut Mandarin – with a hint of mandarin oranges
Absolut Vanilla – made with added vanilla
Absolut Citron – subtle taste of lemons and oranges negates the needs for mixers
Absolut Kurant – with blackcurrant flavours
Absolut Peppar – Hot and spicy flavourings with Peppers!
Most off licences will carry the original flavour and at least one of the others, supermarkets will try and carry as many as space allows – especially at this time of year.
Absolut Vodka is more expensive then most other brands of vodka at about £16.25 for a litre (Note: in Tesco’s they only stock the 70cl bottle most of the year at £11.37) with the flavoured varieties going for about £19 a litre (70cl - £13.87 in Tesco’s). Comparing this with say Smirnoff Red Label at £15 a litre and Tesco’s own Imperial Vodka at £10 a litre you’ll see why this is a special occasion Vodka and not to be wasted on getting wasted…..lol Which is why it still gets an Excellent from for VFM
Personally I mix my Vodka with lemonade – but only R-Whites of course! Or at a pinch Coca-Cola but Absolut is nearly gentle enough to drink neat. It also goes great in just about any cocktail you can think of and there are some great recopies on the website – www.absolut.com
Talking of the website, it’s a strange one worth a visit if you have time. The layout is extremely modern and eye-catching – go for it even if you’re teetotal.
No doubts in my mind about giving this product a 5-star rating, while expensive you’ll understand why when you’ve had a glass and it’s well worth every penny.
Thanks for reading this op….Phil
16.02.2004 15:54
Just got a 1.75litre bottle duty free....nice
09.11.2003 20:27
Not being a big Vodka fan I'll give it a miss but the opinion was great anyway so thanks. - Phil
05.11.2003 12:16
excellent op, I love the Citron version, it's great with bitter lemon as an apperatife :) xx E.