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Vodka • 11 min • 10.08.2023
Belvedere Vodka Review: A Smooth and Silky Experience
Belvedere Vodka has typically been known as 'the party bottle' as it is one of the few spirits that comes in multiple bottle formats, with matching party themes. But is it really just another 'party gimmick'?
Let's look past the sparklers and the dancing girls and take a closer look at this premium vodka in our Belvedere Vodka review.
The Origin Story
Crafted at the Polmos Żyrardów distillery established in 1910, the first bottles of Belvedere rolled off the shelves in 1994, quickly gaining popularity in Poland. Eventually catching the attention of American businessman Edward Jay Phillips, Belvedere was marketed as a vodka even more premium than the existing Absolut series. Exploding onto the US market in 1996, Belvedere has established itself as an exceptional vodka for the discerning drinker, not just another fancy bottle.
Key Features
- Spirit Type
Super-premium Polska Wódka (Polish Vodka)
- Origin
Żyrardów, Poland
- Water source
Polmos Żyrardów distillery's natural well
- Filtration method
Two-step process that includes reverse osmosis
- ABV
40%
The Process of Creation
There are stringent regulations the distillery must follow to qualify as super-premium. The official label of Polish Vodka requires the vodka must be produced on Polish grounds, using specific Polish grains or potatoes and Polish water, and that no artificial additives be added.
Belvedere Vodka uses Dankowskie rye harvested from several nearby farms. These grains are simmered to form a mash which is then fermented and distilled at an agricultural distillery to about 93% ABV. This raw rye spirit is then shipped to Polmos Żyrardów where it is diluted to 45% ABV and distilled an additional three times to remove impurities in the spirit.
This pure spirit is rested for a few days before artesian water from the distillery is added to bring the spirit to bottling strength. Finally, the vodka undergoes a filtration process involving active charcoal and cellulose particle filters. This entire process produces a vodka that is clean tasting and still retains the key characteristics of Dankowskie rye.
Find out more about how vodka is made
The Eye, Nose, and Palate
Now that we've gotten the technicalities out of the way, let's dive into the experience of drinking Belvedere Vodka.
- The Appearance
After rigorous filtration and purifying, the final product is crystal clear in appearance. This represents the clean quality of the super-premium creation process, created over 600 years of traditional Polish vodka-making.
- The Smell
The aroma of Belvedere is light and offers an air of sophistication without the harsh edge of other spirits. You can enjoy subdued notes of rye, with gentle and inviting hints of vanilla and cream.
- The Taste
A sip of Belvedere is like a full yet gentle bubble of silky flavours and rich texture. With almost no bite to it, there are hints of vanilla and black pepper finishes, which gently pull you between sweet and savoury.
Belvedere Vodka Variants
Great things come in groups. In addition to the classic with its smooth notes of vanilla and rye, there are plenty of premium or flavoured variants of Belvedere Vodka.
Belvedere Red
This special edition supports global AIDS awareness and is part of Belvedere's commitment to social responsibility. It maintains the smoothness of the classic Belvedere but comes in a striking patterned bottle designed in cooperation with Esther Mahlangu, a celebrated artist from South Africa. It's decorated in the colourful style of her Ndebele tribal art, and it symbolizes the four values of the Belvedere Red campaign, Security, Change, Support, and Unity. A portion of the proceeds goes to AIDS-related causes, making it a purchase with a purpose.
Belvedere Intense Vodka
For those who prefer a bolder taste, Belvedere Intense Vodka offers a richer and more robust flavor profile. With a higher ABV, it has a more pronounced rye character and a fuller texture. It's an excellent choice for those looking to elevate their cocktails with a more intense flavor.
Belvedere Pink Grapefruit
Infused with real fruit, Belvedere Pink Grapefruit offers a refreshing citrus twist. The natural flavors of grapefruit, combined with a hint of ginger and lemon, create a vibrant and zesty vodka that's perfect for summer cocktails or adding a splash of brightness to any drink.
Belvedere Unfiltered Rare Diamond Rye Vodka
Crafted from rare diamond rye, this unfiltered variant offers a fuller, more textured experience. The unfiltered process retains the character of the rye, resulting in a vodka with rich, robust flavors and a slightly creamy finish. It's a unique offering for those looking to explore a more complex taste.
Belvedere Single Estate Rye Bartezek Lake
This single-estate vodka is made from rye cultivated at Bartezek Lake in Poland. The unique terroir imparts a distinct flavor profile, with crisp, clean notes and a hint of minerality. It's a nuanced and elegant vodka that showcases the art of terroir-driven distillation.
Belvedere Citrus Vodka
Belvedere Citrus Vodka is a delightful infusion that brings together the vibrant flavors of citrus peels, Italian and Argentine lemons, and Mexican limes. By soaking fresh fruit directly in the vodka, Belvedere ensures a refreshing, bright, and natural lemon and lime taste. The result is a complex and well-balanced vodka that's crisp, clean, and inviting. With no artificial flavors or added sugar, it offers a fresh and aromatic experience with notes of baked key lime. Perfect for cocktails like the "Grinch," this flavored vodka adds a lively acidity to any drink.
Belvedere Ginger Zest Vodka
Belvedere Ginger Zest Vodka is a unique infusion crafted with all-natural ingredients, including Polish rye, ginger, primafiori lemon, and grapefruit. The combination of these flavors creates a clean, fresh, and superior taste compared to other flavored vodkas. The ginger adds a warm and invigorating zest, while the citrus elements bring a bright and lively touch. Perfect for those looking to add a spicy twist to their cocktails, Belvedere Ginger Zest offers an exciting and flavorful experience.
Belvedere Mango Passion Vodka
Belvedere Mango Passion Vodka is a tropical delight distilled with five ingredients, including mandarin, tangerine, and lime. This unique blend captures the essence of mango and passion fruit, creating a vibrant and fruity flavor profile. It's the perfect drink to elevate any occasion, offering a taste of the exotic that's delicious paired with tonic water or ginger ale. Add a slice of lemon or a squeeze of lime to enhance the refreshing citrus notes. Whether enjoyed in a cocktail or sipped on its own, Belvedere Mango Passion brings a touch of the tropics to your glass.
Belvedere 007 Limited Edition Vodkaa
Belvedere 007 Limited Edition Vodka is a must-have item for all James Bond fans. This special edition bottle features the iconic gun barrel and 007 gun logo, celebrating the classic tastemaker status of James Bond. As the world's first premium vodka to come from Poland, Belvedere has a reputation for quality and sophistication. This limited edition release combines that heritage with the allure of the world's most famous spy, making it a unique and collectible addition to any bar. Whether you're a Bond enthusiast or simply appreciate fine vodka, this edition offers a touch of cinematic glamour to your drinking experience.
- The Pricing
The cost of Belvedere Vodka ranges from $75.90 to $145, depending on the selection and retailer. But you can visit Paneco's website for a special member-only price of $67.58 for the 700ml or $97.95 for the 1L.
Final Verdict: Is Belvedere Vodka Worth the Money?
Belvedere Vodka is worth every cent you spend on it. This ultra-distilled and dynamic vodka pleases the palate on its own with a few rocks and a lemon peel or can be the star of an elegant martini. There are very few occasions you won't be able to enjoy Belvedere Vodka, as long as you keep the bottle clear of direct sunlight and high temperatures for extended periods. Even if you're not actively drinking it, the bottle makes an outstanding display piece on any shelf and pays tribute to the rich history of the brand.
FAQ
- What Is the Best Way to Drink Belvedere Vodka?
Belvedere Vodka is versatile and can be savoured neat or on the rocks to fully appreciate its smooth and delicate flavours. For those who prefer mixed drinks, Belvedere serves as an excellent base for a wide range of cocktails. Experiment with classic concoctions like the Belvedere Martini or explore creative combinations to suit your personal taste.
- What Food Goes With Belvedere Vodka?
One tasty yet crazy combination I've tried is flaming Belvedere over raw oysters. The flavours intensify while lightly cooking the oyster, resulting in a perfect mix of sweet and umami from the sea. Belvedere also works well with fried foods if you combine it with a lime soda or serve it cold with sashimi dishes.
- What Mixes Well With Belvedere Vodka?
Belvedere's innate sweetness makes it an ideal base for an espresso martini, especially if you don't want to add additional sugar. Otherwise, it goes really well with cranberry juice or lime soda.
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