11 BEST VODKAS IN THE WORLD WORTH TRYING
Originating in Eastern Europe, Vodka is one of the world’s most beloved spirits, featuring in some of the most popular cocktails. The name vodka stems from the Russian word ‘voda’, meaning water or, as the Polish would say, ‘woda’. Vodka has come a long way since its inception by the Russians in the 8th century. Today, there are several quality brands and flavours to choose from, including citrus, peach, green apple, orange, vanilla...the list goes on! Vodka is so versatile it can be used in all manner of cocktails (shaken AND stirred), mocktails, shots, mixed with ice or simply tonic water, or even used in cooking.
If you love entertaining and making cocktails for your loved ones, vodka is the spirit for you. However, because there are so many styles, flavours and brands, it can be tricky choosing, simply as there’s such an array of options at hand. But never fear; we’re here to help. Learn more here about the 11 best vodkas that are perfect for your next cocktail hour, gathering, or that will make the ideal gift for the vodka-lovers in your life.
Our Top 11 Must-Try Vodkas
With so many styles, flavours and vodka brands available, we’ve extensively researched the options–so you don’t have to! Check out the 11 must-try vodkas we know you’ll love.
1. Smirnoff Red Label Vodka
- Brand - Smirnoff
- Country of Origin - Russia
- Award Winner - Yes
- ABV - 37%
The ultimate triple-distilled vodka, Smirnoff Red Label, is perfect for sipping on the rocks or as a delicious base to elevate a cocktail. The multi-award-winning vodka has a bold flavour, dry taste and chic smooth finish. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser, Red label Smirnoff is a must-have for any vodka fan.
2. Absolut Vodka
- Brand - Absolut
- Country of Origin - Sweden
- Award Winner - Yes
- ABV - 40%
Produced near Åhus, in southern Sweden and crafted from pristine natural ingredients, Absolut is one of the most popular vodka brands the world over. With their eye-catching bottle, bold seasonal limited edition releases, and extremely smooth flavours, this is one vodka that Absolut(ly) stands out from the crowd.
3. Grey Goose Original Vodka
- Brand - Grey Goose
- Country of Origin - France
- Award Winner - No
- ABV - 40%
The result of pure determination to create a French spirit unlike any other, Grey Goose is top of mind when talking quality vodkas. Made from the best ingredients from France, Grey Goose is distilled using wheat from the La Beauce region, and made with water from limestone-filtered Gensac. Enjoy it straight with a mixer, in a Spritz, espresso or classic Martini.
4. Belvedere Vodka
- Brand - Belvedere
- Country of Origin - Poland
- Award Winner - Yes
- ABV - 40%
Polish vodka Belvedere is passion, tradition and excellence–bottled. Established in 1910 and produced in Poland’s longest-operating vodka distillery, Belvedere Vodka is made from organic Dankowskie Gold Rye, artfully crafted to perfection with zero additives. With its distinct taste and character, Belvedere is a top-shelf vodka made to impress even the pickiest fan.
5. Ruskov Vodka
- Brand - Ruskov
- Country of Origin - France
- Award Winner - No
- ABV - 37%
Made in France from sugar beet, Ruskov has a unique taste ideal for mixing with soda and lime or as the perfect cocktail base. Ruskov is perfect for mixing a classic Cosmopolitan, Bloody Mary or a Moscow Mule for that extra flavourful oomph. A delicious addition to your liquor collection, Ruskov vodka is an excellent base for those one-of-a-kind style cocktails sure to impress your mates.
6. Russian Standard St Petersburg Vodka
- Brand - Russian Standard
- Country of Origin - Russia
- Award Winner - Yes
- ABV - 38%
Hailing from Russia and inspired by the work of their famous scientist, Dmitri Mendeleev, this is one superbly smooth and pure-tasting spirit. Russian Standard St Petersburg Vodka is made from the finest Russian wheat grains and pure glacial waters from Lake Ladoga. Best enjoyed with great food and great company.
7. Suntory HAKU Vodka
- Brand - Suntory
- Country of Origin - Japan
- Award Winner - No
- ABV - 40%
Suntory HAKU Vodka is a premium Japanese vodka with a subtle, slightly sweet taste. Made with 100% Japanese white rice and filtered through bamboo charcoal for a well-rounded flavour, HAKU is a clean, clear, classic Vodka made for making new memories and sipping with mates.
8. Rivka Vodka
- Brand - Rivka
- Country of Origin - Germany
- Award Winner - No
- ABV - 37%
Crafted using only the finest grain and inspired by 300 year old traditional distilling methods, Rivka is a smooth, premium vodka. Made with potato, corn, and wheat, Rivka has a subtle sweet taste perfect for mixing up your favourite cocktails, or over ice topped with soda and a wedge of fresh lime.
9. Finlandia Vodka
- Brand - Finlandia
- Country of Origin - Finland
- Award Winner - Yes
- ABV - 37.5%
Famous for its clean, smooth taste and quality ingredients, Finlandia is made from only the finest six-row barley and pure spring water. The first designer vodka imported to the United States, Finlandia quickly set the standard for premium vodka the world over. Synonymous with exceptional flavour and top-tier taste, this is elegance, bottled.
10. Poliakov Vodka
- Brand - Poliakov
- Country of Origin - France
- Award Winner - Yes
- ABV - 37.5%
Triple-distilled and made using traditional Russian methods, Poliakov Vodka is a must-try for vodka lovers. A flawless blend of purity and freshness with alluring subtle aromas, Poliakov is the perfect base for any vodka cocktail. Best drunk with a drop or 2 of water, this versatile beauty is sleek, understated, and screaming for a soirée.
11. Vodka O Vodka
- Brand - Vodka O
- Country of Origin - Australia
- Award Winner - Yes
- ABV - 37.5%
Award-winning Vodka O is a classic go-to spirit for any occasion. Crafted from whey, pure Australian water and triple distilled undergoing charcoal filtering, the result is an exquisite, pristine clean tasting vodka, free from impurities. Super-smooth Vodka O is a delight over ice with lime and soda or mixed with your favourite cocktail ingredients.
Where to Buy the 11 Best Vodkas in Australia?
You can purchase any of these delicious vodka brands at Dan Murphy’s in-store or check out our website or mobile app and have them delivered straight to your door. So what are you waiting for? Grab your favourite vodka today and get mixing. Cheers!
