How much is a bottle of vodka? What brands are more or less expensive? How much should I spend on a bottle for mixing cocktails?
If you’ve ever found yourself asking these questions, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re wondering which brand of vodka to try, planning and budgeting a party, or just curious what it might cost to stock a home bar, this guide will help you!
Here I’ll give average costs per brand and also help you pick reasonably priced, quality brands for when you’re just getting started. We’ll also answer one of the most asked booze questions with regard to specific brands – how much does it cost?
Before we dive in, remember that the prices will differ from state to state due to the varying taxation rates and other factors. Below I’ll provide an overview of some average prices to give you a good idea of how much you’ll be looking to spend. If you’re looking to try something new or stocking up your home bar, it’s always helpful to know pricing ahead of time.
What is vodka?
Vodka is a clear and colorless distilled spirit that is known for its neutrality and versatility. It is typically made through the distillation of fermented grains or potatoes, although other base ingredients such as grapes, corn, or wheat can also be used.
Vodka originated in Eastern Europe, particularly in countries like Russia and Poland, where it has a long-standing cultural and historical significance.
Need some vodka cocktail recipe inspiration? Check out my Guide to Easy Vodka Cocktails
How much is a “fifth” of vodka?
A fifth is a standard-sized bottle (750ml or 25.36 ounces).
At the low end of the price spectrum, you can find budget-friendly vodkas that are still suitable for mixed drinks and cocktails. These are produced using more affordable ingredients and production methods.
A word of advice: if you want to go with a cheap bottle, consider choosing one that’s packaged in glass rather than plastic. In my experience, the economy-sized, plastic jugs of alcohol are just not worth the potential raging headache. Less expensive liquors will obviously be lesser in quality, which can also mean they’re higher in questionable additives.
As you move up the price range, you’ll encounter premium and super-premium vodkas, which carry much higher price tags. These vodkas may be distilled from higher-quality ingredients, undergo additional filtration or aging processes, and are typically associated with more established or artisanal brands. Let’s dive into some specific brands below!
Average cost of a 750ml bottle of quality vodka: $20
How much does a small bottle of vodka cost? A small, 350ml bottle of vodka will run you about $10. How much does the average handle (1.75 liters or 59.2 ounces) cost? Expect to pay roughly $35 on a handle of vodka. Ok, now let’s break things down by brand!
Absolut Vodka
Absolut Vodka is a Swedish brand of vodka that’s gained international recognition since its introduction in 1979. It is produced using a continuous distillation process and is made from winter wheat sourced from the Åhus region of Sweden. Here’s an overview of Absolut Vodka’s flavor profile:
Smoothness: Absolut Vodka is known for its smooth and clean taste. It undergoes multiple distillations and filtration processes to achieve its characteristic smoothness, making it an approachable choice for both sipping and mixing in cocktails.
Neutrality: Absolut Vodka possesses a neutral flavor profile, which means it does not have strong distinct flavors or aromas. It is often described as having a “pure” or “crisp” character. This neutrality allows the vodka to adapt well to a wide range of cocktails and mixers, letting other flavors take the forefront.
Subtle Sweetness: While Absolut Vodka is primarily neutral, it does carry a subtle underlying sweetness. The sweetness is derived from the high-quality winter wheat used in its production and adds a pleasant touch to the overall flavor profile. It is not sugary but provides a mild hint of sweetness.
Creaminess: Absolut Vodka has a velvety texture and mouthfeel, further enhancing its smoothness. The creamy quality adds to the overall drinking experience and makes it enjoyable when consumed neat or on the rocks.
Cost of 750ml bottle of Absolut Vodka: $25
Ciroc Vodka
Ciroc Vodka is a premium vodka brand known for its distinctive production process and emphasis on using grapes as the base ingredient. Unlike most vodkas that are made from grains or potatoes, Ciroc is crafted using French grapes, which are fermented and distilled in a process similar to winemaking. Here’s an overview of Ciroc Vodka and its flavor profile:
Grape-Based: Ciroc Vodka stands out from other vodkas due to its unique grape-based production. The use of grapes, particularly Mauzac Blanc and Ugni Blanc varietals, gives Ciroc a distinct flavor profile and a hint of fruity notes.
Smoothness: Ciroc is often praised for its exceptionally smooth and refined character. The grapes used in its production contribute to its smoothness, creating a velvety mouthfeel and a clean finish.
Subtle Sweetness: Ciroc Vodka carries a gentle sweetness that comes from the natural sugars present in the grapes. This subtle sweetness adds depth and complexity to the vodka.
Crisp and Clean: Ciroc is recognized for its crisp and clean taste. The grape base and the distillation process lends a pure and refreshing flavor profile. It is often described as light-tasting.
Versatility: The fruity undertones and smoothness allow it to complement a wide range of mixers and flavors, making it really versatile for cocktail-making.
Cost of 750ml bottle of Ciroc Vodka: $30
Crystal Head Vodka
Crystal Head Vodka is a premium vodka brand known for its unique skull-shaped bottle and its commitment to purity and quality. Created by actor Dan Aykroyd and artist John Alexander, Crystal Head Vodka is crafted using high-quality ingredients and undergoes a multi-step distillation and filtration process. Here’s an overview of Crystal Head Vodka and its flavor profile:
Crystal Head Vodka is known for its smooth and clean taste. It is made from locally sourced Canadian corn and undergoes multiple distillations to ensure purity and clarity. The precise distillation process contributes to its smoothness, making it suitable for sipping or mixing in cocktails.
Neutral Flavor: Crystal Head Vodka is intentionally crafted to have a very neutral flavor profile. It aims to be a blank canvas that allows the flavors of other ingredients or mixers to shine through. It does not have strong distinct flavors or aromas, making it versatile for a wide range of cocktail creations.
Crisp and Clean Finish: Crystal Head Vodka is known for its crisp and clean finish. It leaves behind no lingering harshness or burn, contributing to its overall smooth character.
Cost of 750ml bottle of Crystal Head Vodka: $47
Effen Vodka
Effen Vodka is a premium vodka brand that originated in the Netherlands. The word “Effen” comes from the Dutch word for “smooth,” reflecting the brand’s focus on producing a vodka with a velvety and refined taste. Here’s an overview of Effen Vodka and its flavor profile:
Smoothness: Effen Vodka is known for its exceptionally smooth and polished character. The brand emphasizes its commitment to using continuous distillation and filtration techniques to achieve a silky texture and a clean finish.
Crisp and Balanced: Effen Vodka is often described as having a crisp and balanced taste. It offers a refined and harmonious flavor experience, with no sharp or harsh edges.
Mellow Finish: Effen Vodka leaves behind a mellow and smooth finish, contributing to its overall enjoyable drinking experience. It is designed to be sipped neat or mixed in cocktails, allowing the flavors to integrate seamlessly.
Cost of 750ml bottle of Effen Vodka: $22
Grey Goose
Grey Goose is a highly regarded vodka brand that has gained a strong reputation for its quality and craftsmanship. Here are some reasons why Grey Goose is often considered a great vodka and what sets it apart from others:
High-Quality Ingredients: Grey Goose is crafted using high-quality French ingredients. The vodka is made from soft winter wheat sourced from Picardy, a region known for its excellent wheat-growing conditions. The use of high-quality ingredients contributes to the vodka’s smoothness and refined flavor.
Distillation Process: Grey Goose undergoes a meticulous distillation process to ensure exceptional purity and smoothness. It is distilled using a five-step process that includes continuous column distillation and multiple filtrations. This careful distillation process helps to remove impurities and create a clean, crisp taste.
Attention to Detail: Grey Goose is known for its attention to detail and commitment to quality. The production process involves precise control over every aspect, from the selection of ingredients to the distillation and bottling. This meticulous approach ensures consistency and excellence in each bottle.
Smooth and Refined Flavor: Grey Goose is celebrated for its smooth and refined flavor profile. It is often described as having a creamy and velvety texture with subtle hints of sweetness. The vodka is known for its balance and elegance, offering a sophisticated drinking experience.
Brand Legacy: Grey Goose has established a strong brand legacy and has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. Its reputation for quality and its association with luxury and elegance have contributed to its popularity among vodka enthusiasts.
While taste preferences can vary, Grey Goose’s commitment to quality, use of high-quality ingredients, meticulous production process, and refined flavor profile are some of the factors that have positioned it as a great vodka choice.
Cost of 750ml bottle of Grey Goose Vodka: $35
Ketel One
Ketel One Vodka is a premium vodka brand that originated in the Netherlands. It has gained recognition for its commitment to traditional craftsmanship and quality. Here’s an overview of Ketel One Vodka and what makes it unique:
Family Distillation: Ketel One is a family-owned vodka brand that has been in operation for over 300 years. It is produced by the Nolet family, who have maintained their commitment to traditional distillation methods throughout generations. This legacy and dedication to craftsmanship contribute to Ketel One’s unique character.
Distillation Process: Ketel One is distilled in small batches using traditional copper pot stills. The vodka undergoes a meticulous distillation process, including multiple distillations and meticulous filtration to ensure exceptional purity and smoothness. This careful distillation process helps to capture the essence of the wheat and create a clean and refined taste.
Use of Wheat: Ketel One Vodka is made from 100% wheat sourced from the Netherlands. The wheat used is specifically chosen for its quality and character, contributing to the vodka’s smoothness and subtle flavors. The use of wheat, as opposed to other grains or potatoes, sets Ketel One apart and lends a unique touch to its flavor profile.
Smooth and Crisp Flavor: Ketel One is renowned for its smooth and crisp flavor profile. It is often described as having a clean and gentle character with subtle citrus and floral notes. The vodka’s texture is velvety and its finish is long-lasting, leaving behind a pleasant and refined taste.
Commitment to Quality: Ketel One maintains a strong commitment to quality throughout the production process. The brand is known for its attention to detail, from the selection of the finest ingredients to the craftsmanship that goes into every bottle. This dedication to quality sets Ketel One apart and contributes to its reputation as a premium vodka brand.
Cost of 750ml bottle of Ketel One Vodka: $20
Kirkland Vodka
Kirkland Vodka is a private label vodka brand available at Costco warehouse stores. It is produced and bottled for Costco by various distilleries, which may vary depending on the location. The specific distilleries that produce Kirkland Vodka are not disclosed by Costco, but it is believed that they source their vodka from established and reputable producers.
In terms of taste, Kirkland Vodka is often described as a smooth and clean vodka with a neutral flavor profile. Its taste is generally comparable to more premium vodkas on the market. However, it’s important to note that taste preferences can vary between individuals, and there may be subtle differences in flavor profiles among different batches or production runs of Kirkland Vodka.
One factor that sets Kirkland Vodka apart is its value proposition. As a private label brand sold at warehouse stores, Kirkland Vodka is typically offered at a lower price point compared to well-known premium vodka brands. This makes it an attractive option for those looking for a reasonably priced vodka without compromising on quality.
Cost of 750ml bottle of Kirkland Vodka: $17
Pinnacle Vodka
Pinnacle Vodka is a brand of vodka that originated in France and is now produced in the United States. It is known for its extensive range of flavored vodkas, offering a variety of unique and creative flavor options alongside their classic unflavored vodka. Here’s an overview of Pinnacle Vodka and its taste profile:
Smoothness: Pinnacle Vodka is generally regarded as a smooth vodka, offering a clean and easy-drinking experience. The vodka undergoes multiple distillations and filtration processes to achieve a smooth and polished character.
Versatility: Pinnacle Vodka’s versatility lies in its expansive range of flavors. Alongside their unflavored vodka, they offer a diverse selection of flavored vodkas that incorporate various fruit, dessert, and confectionery-inspired flavors. Some popular flavors include whipped cream, cake, citrus, berry, and tropical fruit varieties.
Flavorful and Approachable: Pinnacle’s flavored vodkas are designed to deliver distinct and enjoyable flavor experiences. While the flavors can be pronounced, they are typically balanced and not overly artificial or overpowering. The goal is to provide a range of options that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or used as a base in creative cocktails.
Mixability: Pinnacle Vodka is well-suited for mixing and creating cocktails due to its smoothness and the wide array of available flavors. The flavors can enhance cocktails, offering a convenient way to incorporate specific tastes into your drink creations.
Cost of 750ml bottle of Pinnacle Vodka: $10
Skyy Vodka
Skyy Vodka is a popular vodka brand that was first introduced in the United States in 1992. It is known for its smooth and clean taste, as well as its commitment to quality and innovation. Here’s an overview of Skyy Vodka and its flavor profile:
Distillation Process: Skyy Vodka is produced using a four-column distillation process, which helps to achieve a high level of purity and smoothness. This process involves multiple distillations and filtration to remove impurities and create a clean-tasting vodka.
Smooth and Clean: Skyy Vodka is often described as having a smooth and clean flavor profile. It is known for its approachable and easy-drinking nature. The vodka is crafted to be versatile, suitable for both sipping neat or mixed in a variety of cocktails.
Neutral Taste: Skyy Vodka has a neutral flavor profile, allowing it to serve as a versatile base for cocktails. It is designed to have a clean and crisp taste, allowing the flavors of mixers and ingredients to come through.
Subtle Sweetness: While Skyy Vodka is primarily neutral, it carries a subtle underlying sweetness. This gentle sweetness adds depth and complexity to the vodka without being overly pronounced.
Mixability: Skyy Vodka is known for its mixability and is frequently used in a variety of cocktails. Its smoothness and neutral flavor make it a suitable choice for mixing with a range of mixers, juices, and other ingredients, allowing for creative cocktail creations.
Cost of 750ml bottle of Skyy Vodka: $15
Smirnoff Vodka
Smirnoff Vodka is a well-known and widely recognized vodka brand that has been around for over 150 years. It has established a strong presence in the global vodka market. Here’s an overview of Smirnoff Vodka and what makes it different from other vodkas:
Heritage and Legacy: Smirnoff has a long history dating back to its origins in Russia in the 19th century. It was founded by Pyotr Arsenievich Smirnov and later expanded to become a renowned vodka brand. The brand’s heritage and legacy contribute to its widespread recognition and popularity.
Triple Distillation: Smirnoff Vodka is known for its triple distillation process. This production method involves passing the vodka through three distillations, resulting in a smooth and refined taste. The triple distillation process helps to remove impurities and create a clean and high-quality vodka.
Variety of Flavors: Smirnoff offers an extensive range of flavored vodkas, providing a wide variety of taste options for consumers. These flavors include fruit-infused options like citrus, berry, and tropical fruit, as well as dessert-inspired flavors like whipped cream and caramel. The availability of diverse flavor options sets Smirnoff apart and allows for more versatility in cocktail creations.
Mixability: Smirnoff Vodka is highly regarded for its mixability and is often used as a base in countless cocktails. Its neutral flavor profile allows it to blend well with a variety of mixers, juices, and other ingredients, making it a popular choice for both professional bartenders and home mixologists.
Accessibility and Affordability: Smirnoff Vodka’s availability and affordability contribute to its wide appeal. It is widely distributed and can be found in many liquor stores, bars, and restaurants. Its competitive pricing makes it accessible to a broad range of consumers.
Cost of 750ml bottle of Smirnoff Vodka: $15
Tito’s Vodka
Tito’s Vodka has gained significant popularity in recent years and has become one of the best-selling vodka brands in the United States. Here are some reasons why Tito’s Vodka has achieved its popularity and what makes it unique:
Craftsmanship and Small-Batch Production: Tito’s Vodka is produced in Austin, Texas, at the distillery owned by Tito Beveridge, the brand’s founder. Tito’s prides itself on its handcrafted approach and small-batch production methods. Each batch is carefully crafted and distilled in copper pot stills, which allows for greater control over the quality and flavor.
Distillation Process: Tito’s Vodka undergoes a process of distillation that involves running the vodka through a pot still six times. This multiple distillation process helps to achieve a smooth and clean taste while removing impurities and creating a high-quality vodka.
Gluten-Free and Corn-Based: Tito’s Vodka is made from 100% corn, which gives it a unique flavor profile. It is also certified gluten-free, making it a suitable choice for individuals with gluten sensitivities or those following a gluten-free diet.
Smooth and Approachable: Tito’s Vodka is often praised for its smooth and approachable taste. It is known for its clean, crisp, and slightly sweet flavor profile. The vodka’s smoothness makes it enjoyable to sip on its own or to use as a base for a variety of cocktails.
Brand Story and Authenticity: Tito’s Vodka has built its reputation on its founder’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to producing a high-quality product. The brand’s story of starting small and growing organically resonates with consumers seeking authenticity and supporting independent craft producers.
Community Engagement: Tito’s Vodka has also gained recognition for its philanthropic efforts and community engagement. The brand has been involved in various charitable initiatives and has supported causes such as disaster relief, veterans’ organizations, and animal welfare.
The combination of Tito’s Vodka’s craftsmanship, small-batch production, gluten-free nature, smooth flavor, and brand authenticity has contributed to its popularity and unique position in the vodka market. The brand’s commitment to quality and its ability to connect with consumers on a personal level have helped establish a loyal following and contributed to its continued success.
Cost of 750ml bottle of Tito’s Handmade Vodka: $22
UV vodka
UV Vodka is a brand of vodka that is known for its wide range of flavored vodka options. It is produced by Phillips Distilling Company, based in Minnesota, USA. UV Vodka gained popularity for its vibrant and creative flavor offerings, which are designed to cater to various taste preferences and cocktail creations.
Here’s why UV Vodka might be worth trying:
Flavor Variety: UV Vodka offers an extensive selection of flavored vodkas that go beyond traditional options. Their flavor range includes fruit-infused options like blueberry, raspberry, and citrus, as well as more unique and innovative flavors like cake, whipped cream, and salted caramel.
Mixability: The array of flavors provided by UV Vodka makes it well-suited for mixing in cocktails. The unique flavors can add interesting dimensions to your personal drink creations.
Experimentation: If you enjoy trying new and adventurous flavors, UV Vodka’s creative offerings might provide an opportunity to experiment with different taste combinations and develop your own signature cocktails.
Fun and Festive: UV Vodka’s flavors often have a fun and festive quality, making them suitable for celebratory occasions or themed parties. Their unique flavors can add a playful element to your drinks.
Affordability: UV Vodka is typically priced at an affordable range, making it accessible for consumers who are looking for quality flavored vodkas without breaking the bank.
Cost of 750ml bottle of UV Vodka: $12