Review: Ketel One Vodka (2014)
The Netherlands-distilled Ketel One was one of the brands that drove vodka’s rise to super-premium status, and it’s been 6 years since we took a look at this iconic, venerable brand.
Recipes and production methods change, over time. So how has Ketel One fared in the last half-decade as its found itself attacked by competitors? We took a fresh look at a recent-vintage bottle.
I tasted Ketel One before reading my prior review. The vodka is cleaner than I remember, with distinct lemon notes on the nose backing up some hefty hospital character. The body is crisp and sharp with classic medicinal character, and also mildly lemony with a slight backbone of vanilla. Lovely balance on the whole, making it easy to enjoy straight or in any number of cocktails. A clear go-to that deserves its spot on the back bar.
I didn’t catch the menthol notes this time around, but more importantly that ashy charcoal character was wholly lacking in this 2014 bottle. All in all, Ketel One remains a top choice for a high-end vodka, and in fact may even be getting better.
80 proof.
A / $20 [BUY IT NOW FROM DRIZLY]
Ketel One Vodka (2014)
$20
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Good to know that it’s still a decent vodka. I haven’t tried any in quite a few years myself. May have to pick up a bottle, thanks for the recommendation.
I didn’t catch the menthol notes this time around, but more importantly that ashy charcoal character was wholly lacking in this 2014 bottle. All in all, Ketel One remains a top choice for a high-end vodka, and in fact may even be getting better.
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If it changes taste it is not a great Vodka.
I thought it tasted too much like charcoal and it left my throat feeling all dried out. I hate this Vodka.
Everything changes. (By that I mean the vodka has changed from bottle to bottle, not within the same bottle from year to year… I hope that was clear.)