Believe it or not, theres actually a textbook definition of vodka.

The ATF declared vodka to be a neutral spirit.

It is without notable character, color, aroma, or taste.

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via titosvodka.com

Behind that rather clinical definition is the allusion that all vodkas are going to taste the same.

Say that to any of our Russian sisters or brothers and theyll happily tell you(aka bullshit.)

Instead of grandiose flavor structures, vodka has different aftertastes and textures.

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Different burning levels, smoothness, and scent.

These dissimilarities come from the distillation process, as well as the materials being used.

Which is why its important to know that these spirits are the 12 best vodkas out there.

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Titos Handmade

Made out of corn,Titosis a rarity in the market.

Its spicy and thick, which sounds dreadful but tastes glorious.

Try it alongside some chowder, cream sauce, or black bread.

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Its a sweet, clean delight that never overstays its welcome.

Absolut

The biggest vodka brands often get that way by being neutral, rather than good.

Theres a limited aftertaste, and no harsh alcohol hit like you get with many cheaper vodkas.

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The outcome is a harmless, one-size-fits-most, smooth-sipper with an attractive price.

Akvinta

Akvintasdistillation process sounds delicious and refreshing, even if it werent talking about vodka.

Instead, it is a wholly organic, kosher liquor that smells of rose petals when opened.

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Smooth drinking with a tiny citrus zest give it a personality begging for the most refined screwdriverever mixed.

Perhaps not the best alone, its a goer that adds depth and body to any cocktail.

Wed say its a crime to mix this, except doing so adds golden fields into your drink.

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Which is, as the kids say, good.

Purity

Make note of the name Thomas Kuuttanen who is the manbehind Purity.

We cant fault his passion, as his invention is precisely what the name claims.

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Unlike the migrating bird brand,Belvedere Intensecan actually impress.

Caramel, spice, with pulled taffy dancing at the rim, were almost sorry its 100 proof.

Thatchers Organic Small-Batch

Anyone who is hoping to see Ketel One on this list, wont.

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The reason being, the cloying, spoiled fruit aftertastes ruins it.

Should you have never noticed the sticky flavor clinging to your mouth after drinking Ketel, you will now.

The good news is, theres inexpensive salvation in the form ofThatchers.

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It has the same light, sweet flavor, but leaves your palate clean and ready when its gone.

Its smoky, slick, and refined to the point that its almost,almosttrying too hard.

Since you may fall into the former camp and love it, feel free to waste your money.

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Tito’s Handmade - vodka

Luksusowa - vodka

Belvedere Intense - vodka

Armadale - vodka

Adnams Longshore - vodka

Chopin - vodka

Absolut - vodka

Thatcher’s Organic Small-Batch - vodka

Purity - vodka

Grey Goose - vodka

Akvinta 117

Cîroc - vodka