Rating: 19/23 I hear that this is a good vodka with some interesting character. I've had a couple of stinkers lately, so I'm hoping that this will be a bit of a relief. N: Mild alcohol lets some grain, a bit of lemon, and some restrained earthiness through. This isn't enjoyable all on its own, but it does bode well for the palate. P: Smooth and sweet, with some earthiness and spice that just barely avoids being harsh. It's a tad full. It's an easy-drinking vodka with some bit of nuance. Definitely works as a sipper. I do wish that the spice were a bit reduced though because the more I sip, the more it gets a little harsh. F: Yeah, there's not much of a finish here. It's tasty, but quickly forgettable. It's kind of sweet and watery with bits of earth and grain. Nice, but on the subtle side. - Conclusion - Honestly, I would have guessed that this was wheat, potato, or some sort of grain blend (the last being the most likely). Rye was far from my mind. This is a fascinating one. I really didn't expect this from a rye vodka, but I love it. Wheatley (14/23) is much harsher with a more bitter, funky, and less enjoyable flavor. There's definitely at least a 2 point gap between these two. This isn't blowing my mind, but it sure is a really nice vodka. Chopin Wheat (17/23) shows more grain, but also more bitterness. It still has some nice, clean, watery sweetness. The two are fairly close, but this tastes a bit more balanced and lacks that slightly off-putting bitterness. I think that the winner is clearly this, by a 1-2 point margin. Possibly even 3 points. If I had to choose now, I'd go with a 19. Yeah, I'm going with that. What a delightful vodka!
About this bottle
First announced in fall 2017, this single-estate vodka gets all of its rye from a farm on the lakeside village of Lake Bartężek in northeastern Poland. Diamond Dankowskie rye is grown and harvested here for Belvedere. This vodka is intended to explore the idea of terroir and joins their other single-estate rye, Smogóry Forest, in this endeavor. Expected release for both vodkas to occur in early 2018.
How it tastes
Measured across 14 flavor axes. Tap a note to find other bottles that lead with it.
Reviews
Showing the most detailed of 5 parsed reviews.
Very nice flavor to it, with a punch due to the rye. Not as smooth as original Belvedere (though I don’t think it should be, just a warning for those expecting the usual Belvedere neutral taste)
Taste is well above average. Nose is a bit heavy for 80 prooff. Super easy to sip neat and enjoy, but my preference is 1:1 with topo chico with a shaved lemon rind and ice.
Very smooth and fresh, clean with a delicate aromatic character.
Incredibly smooth
Tastes like this
Closest flavor profiles across the whole catalog.