Pinnacle Vodka is a distinguished brand of vodka that has gained popularity over the years for its smooth taste and array of delightful flavors. Owned by Beam Suntory, the spirit is produced in France, where it undergoes a meticulous distillation process using French wheat. From there, it is exported to the United States, where it is flavored and bottled for distribution. Launched in 2002 by the White Rock Distillery in Maine, Pinnacle has continuously expanded its product line and is now available in around 30 flavors.
Renowned for its short, smooth finish, and clean aroma, Pinnacle Vodka is distilled five times for exceptional quality. This commitment to crafting the finest vodka has earned the brand a dedicated following and consistently positive reviews from enthusiasts and critics alike. Among its many offerings are best-selling flavors such as whipped cream, cake, and pumpkin pie.
Whether enjoyed on its own or used as a base for timeless cocktails, Pinnacle Vodka has something for every taste. The brand's commitment to creating high-quality spirits at an affordable price point makes it an excellent choice for those looking to indulge in luxury without breaking the bank. With its range of delicious flavors and prestigious origins, Pinnacle Vodka is poised to remain a favorite among consumers for years to come.
History and Origin of Pinnacle Vodka
French Wheat and Distillation Process
Pinnacle Vodka's journey begins in France, where it is distilled using French wheat. The whole grain winter wheat used in Pinnacle's production is grown in Brie, Northern France, providing a high-quality base ingredient. After distillation in France, it is then exported to the United States, where the vodka is flavored and bottled for distribution.
White Rock Distillery
It was White Rock Distilleries, an American-based company established in 1857, that originally launched Pinnacle Vodka in 2002. Located in Lewiston, Maine, White Rock Distilleries was acquired by Beam Inc. in April 2012. The company's dedication to creating unique, high-quality spirits played a significant role in Pinnacle Vodka's rise to fame, especially with the introduction of its Pinnacle Whipped flavor.
Beam Suntory
With the acquisition of White Rock Distilleries, Beam Inc. became the owner of Pinnacle Vodka. In 2014, Beam Inc. merged with Suntory, a Japanese company, to form Beam Suntory. Under this new ownership, the Pinnacle brand continues to thrive, maintaining its smooth and creamy taste and offering a wide range of flavors for consumers to enjoy.
Varieties and Flavors of Pinnacle Vodka
Pinnacle Original and Flavored Vodkas
Pinnacle Vodka offers a wide range of products, including its Pinnacle Original and a variety of flavored vodkas. Pinnacle Original is a classic vodka option, with an ABV of 40%, distilled five times for a smooth and crisp taste. In addition to the original, Pinnacle provides a collection of flavored options to suit every palate.
The flavored vodka range can be categorized into four main groups: Treat, Fruit, Dessert, and Whipped flavors.
Some of the flavored varieties include:
- Pinnacle Citrus
- Pinnacle Kiwi Strawberry
- Pinnacle Cake
- Pinnacle Coconut
- Pinnacle Orange
- Pinnacle Pineapple
- Pinnacle Peach
Notable and Unique Flavors
Pinnacle stands out for its creativity and variety in flavored vodka options. Some of the unique and notable flavors offered are:
- Whipped: Pinnacle Whipped is known for its creamy and rich taste, a perfect addition to cocktails or desserts. Variants of this flavor include Chocolate Whipped and Orange Whipped.
- Tropical Punch: Pinnacle Tropical Punch combines fruity flavors, ideal for summertime drinks or adding flair to any party.
- Berry Variations: The brand offers a selection of berry-flavored vodkas, including Blueberry, Raspberry, and Strawberry.
- Dessert Flavors: Pinnacle's dessert range features Cake, Chocolate Whipped, and Cinnabon flavors, infusing your cocktails with a sweet twist.
Whether you're a fan of fruity flavors like Mango, Grape, or Cucumber, or seeking a more adventurous taste like Kiwi Strawberry or Cherry, Pinnacle Vodka has a flavor for every preference. With over 30 delicious types, all using their five-times distilled, ultra-smooth, award-winning base, Pinnacle Vodka offers a wide array of choices for vodka enthusiasts to enjoy.
Creating Delicious Cocktails with Pinnacle Vodka
Pinnacle Vodka is known for its wide variety of flavored vodkas, making it a fantastic base for creating delicious cocktails. In this section, we'll cover how to make a Moscow Mule with Pinnacle Vodka and introduce you to other popular cocktail recipes using various Pinnacle Vodka flavors.
Moscow Mule with Pinnacle Vodka
The Moscow Mule is a classic cocktail that pairs well with Pinnacle Vodka due to its smooth taste. Here's a simple recipe to make your own Moscow Mule with Pinnacle Vodka:
- 2 oz Pinnacle Vodka
- 4 oz ginger beer
- 1 oz lime juice
- Fresh mint leaves
- Ice
- Fill a copper mug or glass with ice.
- Pour in the Pinnacle Vodka and lime juice.
- Top it off with ginger beer.
- Gently stir the cocktail to mix the ingredients.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a lime wedge.
Other Popular Cocktail Recipes
There are several other tasty cocktails that you can create using Pinnacle's flavored vodkas. Here are a few examples to inspire your mixology skills:
Cherry Lemonade:
- 1 part Pinnacle Cherry Vodka
- 2 parts lemonade
- Lemon wedges for garnish
Mix Pinnacle Cherry Vodka and lemonade in a glass over ice, and garnish with lemon wedges.
Habanero Fizz:
- 1 part Pinnacle Habanero Vodka
- 1 part simple syrup
- Soda water
Combine the Pinnacle Habanero Vodka and simple syrup in a glass over ice, then top up with soda water and stir gently.
Salted Caramel Martini:
- 2 oz Pinnacle Salted Caramel Vodka
- 1 oz half-and-half
- Caramel sauce and sea salt for garnish
Shake Pinnacle Salted Caramel Vodka and half-and-half in a shaker with ice, strain into a martini glass rimmed with caramel sauce and sea salt.
Pomegranate Tonic:
- 1 part Pinnacle Pomegranate Vodka
- 2 parts tonic water
- Lime wedges for garnish
Mix Pinnacle Pomegranate Vodka and tonic water in a glass over ice, and garnish with lime wedges.
Ruby Red Grapefruit Spritzer:
- 1 part Pinnacle Ruby Red Grapefruit Vodka
- 1 part club soda
- 1 part grapefruit juice
Combine all ingredients in a glass over ice, and give it a gentle stir.
Feel free to experiment with different Pinnacle Vodka flavors and mixers to create your own unique and delicious cocktails.
Purchasing and Pricing for Pinnacle Vodka
Pinnacle Vodka has gained recognition in the liquor industry, even receiving a Gold Medal in the 2015 SIP Consumer Choice competition and another Gold medal in 2017 at the Beverage Testing Institute. This vodka is known for its clean taste and easy mixability, making it a popular choice among consumers looking for a high-quality vodka that won't break the wallet. In this section, we'll discuss the available bottle sizes, prices, and purchasing options for Pinnacle Vodka.
Available Bottle Sizes and Prices
Pinnacle Vodka comes in various bottle sizes to cater to different preferences and budgets. Some of the most common sizes and their approximate prices are:
- 750ml bottle: Around $9.99
- 1.75L bottle: Prices may vary
Please note that these prices are approximate and may vary depending on the store and location.
Online and In-store Buying Options
There are several ways to purchase Pinnacle Vodka, both online and in physical stores. Some popular options include:
- Drizly: An online liquor delivery service that offers Pinnacle Vodka. Simply visit their website, search for Pinnacle Vodka, and place an order for delivery.
- Target: Offers the 1.75L bottle of Pinnacle Vodka. Check their website for availability or visit stores to make a purchase.
- Total Wine & More: Provides the 750ml bottle of Pinnacle Vodka for around $9.99. You can check for availability on their website and choose between in-store pick-up or delivery where available.
When buying Pinnacle Vodka, always consider your personal preferences and budget while exploring the various options available for purchase.
Comparing Pinnacle Vodka to Alternatives
Quality and Taste Compared to Other Brands
Pinnacle Vodka is a French vodka with a 40% ABV. It is known for being distilled five times and filtered with charcoal, which contributes to its clean taste. In terms of overall quality, Pinnacle Vodka is considered to be okay, with an average rating of 2 out of 5 based on 7 reviews. The vodka is available in both unflavored and unique flavors such as blackberry.
When comparing to other vodka brands, Pinnacle is smoother than some cheaper alternatives, yet it might not be as smooth as higher-end brands like Absolut and Belvedere, which boast different production techniques and ingredient origins. The taste of Pinnacle's unflavored vodka can be described as crisp and relatively clean, with a slight aftertaste that may not be as pleasant as premium brands.
Choosing the Right Vodka for Your Palate and Budget
When it comes to selecting a vodka, personal taste preferences and budget play crucial roles. For those who enjoy experimenting with unique flavors in their mixed drinks, Pinnacle offers a wide range of options, from fruity to sweet, which can be an appealing aspect. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more traditional, clean vodka taste might lean towards the unflavored version.
In terms of budget, Pinnacle Vodka comes at an affordable price point, with an average price of around $10.21 per 750mL. This makes it a more economical choice compared to higher-end brands like Belvedere, which retails for approximately $43. If a smooth, premium taste is a priority, it might be worth investing in a more expensive option. However, for casual drinkers or those seeking unique flavors for mixed drinks, Pinnacle Vodka can be a suitable alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pinnacle similar to Grey Goose?
Pinnacle Vodka and Grey Goose are both high-quality vodka brands, but they have some differences. Grey Goose is a French vodka made from winter wheat and distilled five times, giving it a smooth and rich flavor. Pinnacle Vodka, on the other hand, is also a premium vodka with a smooth, crisp taste. While both brands are highly commendable, individual preferences and specific cocktails may sway one's choice between the two.
Pinnacle vs. Smirnoff: which is better?
When comparing Pinnacle Vodka to Smirnoff, it ultimately depends on personal taste and preferences. Pinnacle is known for being a smooth and crisp vodka with various flavors, while Smirnoff, a classic choice, offers a slightly sweet and smooth taste. Both brands have a wide variety of flavors and cater to different requirements in terms of cocktails or neat drinking.
What is Pinnacle's alcohol percentage?
Pinnacle Vodka has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 40%. This is a typical strength for vodka, aligning with most other brands in the market.
Is Pinnacle Whipped Vodka the same as whipped cream vodka?
Yes, Pinnacle Whipped Vodka is also known as whipped cream vodka. It features a creamy, sweet taste that closely resembles whipped cream and is often used in various dessert-inspired cocktails.
What flavors does Pinnacle offer?
Pinnacle Vodka has an impressive array of flavors to suit different preferences and cocktail types. Some available flavors include cherry, raspberry, citrus, vanilla, peach, pineapple, tropical punch, and chocolate whipped, among others.
Where is Pinnacle Vodka produced?
Pinnacle Vodka is a product of France. It boasts a premium quality production process that ensures a smooth and delicious vodka experience for its consumers.