Western Son Vodka stands as a testament to American craftsmanship and ingenuity in the world of distilled spirits. This small-batch craft vodka boasts an impressive resume, having won multiple awards and secured a growing presence in the market. Crafted from 100% American yellow corn, the vodka undergoes a meticulous column distillation process that results in a remarkably smooth and gluten-free product that appeals to a wide range of consumers.
The success of Western Son Vodka can be attributed to its commitment to quality and innovation. In recent years, the brand has been recognized with the Growth Brands Award for four consecutive years and has become the seventh fastest-growing premium vodka in the United States between 2015 and 2020. With flavored variations such as Raspberry and a line of ready-to-drink cocktails, Western Son continues to push the boundaries of what a craft vodka can be.
As the popularity of craft spirits continues to grow, Western Son Vodka serves as an exemplar of the movement, showcasing the potential for locally-made, quality-driven products to make a mark on the industry. Enthusiasts of craft vodka will be well-served by giving Western Son a try and enjoying its smooth taste and innovative spirit offerings.
History of Western Son Vodka
Founding and Location
Western Son Vodka was founded in 2011 by a small group of individuals who were ready to break away from the constraints of corporate environments. Their vision to create their own unique vodka led to the establishment of Western Son Distillery, located in Pilot Point, Texas, United States.
Western Son Distillery
At the Western Son Distillery, quality and innovation are at the forefront of their production process. Their vodka is distilled 10 times in a 20-foot column still, which sets it apart from other vodka brands. With a range of products that includes a traditional vodka, seven flavored vodkas, and a gin, Western Son continues to expand its offerings while maintaining a commitment to excellence.
Community Involvement
Western Son Vodka is not just about producing excellent spirits; it's also about being an active member of the local community. With events and partnerships, they strive to support and engage with the people of Pilot Point and the surrounding areas. As Western Son Vodka continues to grow, they remain dedicated to their roots and the community that helped shape their success.
Production Process
Ingredients
Western Son Vodka is made using 100% American yellow corn, which is the primary ingredient that differentiates it from vodkas made with wheat and other grains. The use of corn lends a distinctly smooth and sweet flavor profile to the vodka, while ensuring its gluten-free nature.
Distillation
The distillation process is meticulously carried out in small batches using a copper pot still. The copper helps in removing sulfides and impurities from the alcohol, resulting in a cleaner and smoother final product. The vodka is 10 times distilled to ensure its quality and consistency in both flavor and texture.
Quality Control
Western Son Distillery is highly dedicated to maintaining the quality of their vodka. The process of distillation and selection of ingredients are closely monitored to ensure that each batch meets the desired standards. Additionally, their commitment to innovation allows them to consistently improve upon the production processes, resulting in an exceptional product.
Gluten-Free Certification
As mentioned earlier, Western Son Vodka is made using 100% American yellow corn instead of wheat or other grains, which makes it naturally gluten-free. This is crucial for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, as it provides them with a safe and enjoyable option for consumption. The vodka's gluten-free status is certified, ensuring that it meets the necessary standards and is safe for those with gluten-related dietary restrictions.
With such focus on ingredients, distillation, quality control, and gluten-free certification, Western Son Vodka stands out as a superior option for those seeking a smooth, delicious, and allergen-free spirit.
Product Range
Original Vodka
Crafted from 100% American yellow corn, Western Son Original Vodka is column distilled in small batches, which results in an extremely smooth and gluten-free vodka. With an ABV of 40%, this Texas-based spirit offers a clean, soft mouthfeel with a well-balanced, semi-sweet finish.
Flavored Vodkas
Western Son Distillery offers a collection of multiple flavored vodkas, each providing a unique taste experience that caters to different preferences. The flavored vodka range includes:
- Prickly Pear Vodka: Infused with the natural essence of prickly pear, this vodka delivers a fruity, slightly tangy flavor with a vibrant aroma.
- Peach Vodka: This variant is infused with ripe and juicy peaches, resulting in a delightful, fruity taste with a hint of sweetness.
- Cucumber Vodka: A refreshing option, Cucumber Vodka offers a crisp, clean flavor profile perfect for those who prefer a more subtle taste.
- Lime Vodka: Quite zesty, Lime Vodka features a citrus burst that adds a lively twist to your favorite cocktails.
- Raspberry Vodka: This choice is brimming with the natural sweetness of ripe raspberries, making it an excellent option for a fruit-forward taste experience.
- Watermelon Vodka: The taste of summer in a bottle, Watermelon Vodka captures the essence of freshly sliced watermelon, providing a fruity, light, and refreshing flavor.
Western Son flavored vodkas are perfect for those looking to add a splash of flavor to their cocktails or simply enjoy sipping on their own. Each flavored variety retains its smoothness and quality, much like the Original Vodka, all while delivering diverse taste profiles.
Taste and Characteristics
Smoothness
Western Son Vodka is crafted from 100% American yellow corn and column distilled in small batches. This process results in an extremely smooth and gluten-free vodka. The clean taste and rich mouthfeel make it a favorite among vodka enthusiasts.
Sweetness
One of the unique characteristics of Western Son Vodka is their Prickly Pear Vodka, which has a citric and tangy mouthfeel. The fresh prickly pear fruits give the vodka a distinctive sweetness with a slight berry-like flavor. The delightful purple-mixed-violet appearance adds to the appeal of this spirit.
Suggested Cocktails
Western Son Vodka is highly versatile and can be used in a variety of delicious cocktails. Some suggestions include:
Raspberry Apple Cobbler:
- 1 part Western Son Original Vodka
- 1 part Western Son Raspberry Vodka
- Cranberry juice
New Year's Sparkle:
- 1 part Western Son Original Vodka
- 1 part Champagne
These cocktails showcase the smooth and sweet characteristics of Western Son Vodka while enhancing its pleasant attributes. Experimenting with different fruit juices and mixers will bring out the spirit's unique taste that pleases your palate.
Pricing and Availability
Retail Price
Western Son Vodka is an affordably priced, hand-crafted American vodka that has a loyal consumer following due to its clean taste and smooth finish. A standard 750ml bottle of Western Son Original Vodka typically retails for around $14.99 to $16.00.
Online Purchasing
Shopping for Western Son Vodka online is quite convenient. One option is to purchase through Drizly, where you can find additional information on the product, such as its description, reviews, and retail price.
Local Pick Up
For those who prefer to buy in person, you can visit local stores like Total Wine & More. You can use their website to check if the vodka is available in their stores. For example, it may not be available at Sacramento (Arden), CA, but it could be found at Roseville, CA, in Aisle 05, Left, Bay 27. Keep in mind that availability may vary depending on the store location.
Delivery Options
There are several options for having Western Son Vodka delivered right to your doorstep. With Drizly, you can benefit from delivery services as fast as 2 hours, depending on store and location. If you're in California, it's important to know that spirits are not eligible for shipping; however, you can check for eligibility regarding shipping restrictions in other locations/settings.
Consumer Reviews
Overall Rating
Western Son Original Vodka has received positive feedback from consumers, with a 4.8 out of 5 star rating based on 30 community reviews. Here are the key points from the reviews:
- Taste: The taste of Western Son Vodka is described as being okay, with a 5.0 rating. Consumers mentioned that it has a grain-like flavor due to its corn base.
- Aftertaste: The aftertaste of Western Son Vodka also received a 5.0 rating, with users noting a lingering grain-like flavor.
- Burn/Smoothness: This aspect of Western Son has a lower rating of 1.5, indicating that the vodka is not very smooth, and has a unique kind of burn that's dull but long-lasting.
Flavor Comparisons
- Prickly Pear flavored vodka: Western Son offers a vodka made using fresh prickly pear fruits, which delivers a citrus taste and tangy mouthfeel.
- Other Flavors: In addition to the original and prickly pear flavors, Western Son Vodka also comes in various flavors that offer unique taste experiences for consumers.
Additional Resources
Proposition 65 Warning
California's Proposition 65 requires businesses to provide warnings about significant exposures to chemicals that are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. While Western Son Vodka is made from yellow corn and distilled 10 times for a smooth and delectable taste, it is important to keep in mind that consuming alcohol may expose you to chemicals that fall under Proposition 65. It is advised to check the packaging labels or consult the manufacturer for any Proposition 65 warning related to Western Son Vodka.
Calories and Nutritional Information
As with any alcohol, Western Son Vodka does contain calories, though the exact amount may vary depending on the specific flavor and serving size. Here is a general breakdown of calories and nutritional information for vodka:
- Standard Vodka (80 proof, unflavored)Serving size: 1.5 oz (44ml)
Calories: 96
Carbohydrates: 0g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Please note that flavored vodkas, like some varieties of Western Son Vodka, may contain additional calories and sugars due to added flavors or ingredients. It is important to check the label for specific information related to the flavor you are consuming.
In summary, it's essential to be aware of Proposition 65 warnings and nutritional information when consuming Western Son Vodka, as with any alcoholic beverage. Always drink responsibly and enjoy in moderation.
Competitors and Alternatives
Gin
While Western Son Vodka has a strong presence in the vodka market, there are alternative options within the gin category. Competitor Brazos Gin offers a unique flavor profile and is often perceived as a direct competitor due to their similar market presence. Here are some other gin alternatives:
- Bombay Sapphire
- Hendrick's Gin
- Tanqueray
Whiskeys
Besides vodka, there are many whiskeys that serve as alternatives to Western Son Vodka. As a sibling company, Red River Whiskey is one of the main competitors. Furthermore, two other strong competitors within the whiskey realm include:
- Firestone and Robertson Distilling Co.
- Old Glory Distilling Co.
These distilleries produce a wide range of whiskeys that can be enjoyed by whiskey enthusiasts.
Russian Vodkas
When it comes to vodka, Russia historically takes center stage. As a result, vodka enthusiasts may opt for traditional Russian brands. Some of the notable Russian vodka competitors are:
- Stolichnaya
- Russian Standard
- Beluga
While these brands may originate in the vodka's mother country, Western Son Vodka has managed to hold its ground with a gluten-free, wheat-based vodka. Despite the wide array of options, it's important to understand that the choice between Western Son Vodka and its competitors ultimately depends on individual taste preferences and requirements.
Branding and Packaging
Label Design
Western Son Vodka has a streamlined and modern label design that reflects their commitment to producing high-quality craft vodkas. The label features their iconic buffalo logo, which conveys the brand's connection to the American West, and a clean, simple text layout that highlights their winning craft vodka status. The color palette used in their branding and packaging is subdued and elegant, making their products easy to recognize on bar shelves or store displays.
Bottle Sizes and Shapes
Western Son Vodka offers their products in various bottle sizes to cater to differing consumer needs:
- 750ml: This is the standard size for most spirits and is commonly found in bars, restaurants, and liquor stores. A typical 750ml bottle of Western Son Vodka should provide around 17 standard 1.5-ounce servings, making it ideal for parties or gatherings.
- Smaller sizes: Western Son Vodka also offers smaller bottle sizes such as 375ml and 50ml, which are suitable for those looking to try the product or as a convenient travel-sized option.
The bottles themselves have a classic and straightforward shape, designed for easy pouring and handling. Their functional and minimalist design focuses on the quality of the vodka inside and complements the brand's overall aesthetic.
Packaging
One of the key considerations of Western Son Vodka's packaging is sustainability. The brand opts for eco-friendly packaging materials and practices to minimize their environmental footprint. The simple and clean packaging design not only reflects the brand's commitment to quality and craftsmanship but also aligns with their dedication to sustainable practices.
In conclusion, Western Son Vodka's branding and packaging play an essential role in showcasing their premium craft vodka offerings. The sleek label design, various bottle sizes, and eco-conscious packaging help to create a strong brand identity that is both recognizable and appealing to consumers.
Cocktail Recipes
Popular Western Son Vodka Cocktails
Below are some well-loved Western Son Vodka cocktail recipes:
Firecracker:
- 1 part Western Son Original Vodka
- 1/2 part lime juice
- 1/2 part simple syrup
- Splash of Champagne
- Blueberries
- Strawberries
With its vibrant colors and fizzy champagne, the Firecracker is perfect for celebrations.
Blueberry Mint Lemonade:
- 1 part Western Son Blueberry Vodka
- 2 parts lemonade
- Fresh mint leaves
This refreshing drink pairs the fruitiness of blueberry vodka with classic lemonade and a hint of mint—ideal for warm, sunny days.
Prickly Pear Paloma:
- 1 part Western Son Prickly Pear Vodka
- 3 parts grapefruit soda
- 1/2 part lime juice
- Salt and lime wedge for garnish
The Prickly Pear Paloma combines the unique taste of prickly pear vodka with tangy grapefruit soda and lime juice.
Seasonal Cocktail Ideas
Every season calls for its own set of cocktails that use Western Son Vodka. Here are some suggestions:
Spring – Blackberry Basil Smash:
- 1 part Western Son Blackberry Vodka
- 1/2 part lemon juice
- 1/2 part simple syrup
- Muddled basil leaves
The Blackberry Basil Smash combines the fresh flavors of blackberry and basil to create a delightful springtime cocktail.
Summer – Watermelon Cucumber Cooler:
- 1 part Western Son Original Vodka
- 2 parts watermelon juice
- 1 part cucumber juice
- 1/2 part lime juice
Beat the heat with the Watermelon Cucumber Cooler—a mix of hydrating watermelon and cucumber, plus a citrusy kick from lime juice.
Fall – Western Son Apple Cider:
- 1 part Western Son Original Vodka
- 3 parts apple cider
- Sliced fruit (apples, oranges, and pears)
- Cinnamon stick for garnish
Warm up in the autumn season with Western Son Apple Cider featuring a cozy blend of vodka, apple cider, and sliced fruits.
Winter – Blueberry Mule:
- 1 part Western Son Blueberry Vodka
- 2 parts ginger beer
- 1/2 part lime juice
- Garnish with fresh blueberries and a lime wedge
For a winter twist on a classic cocktail, try the Blueberry Mule, featuring the combination of blueberry vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice.
These Western Son Vodka cocktails provide flavor and variety to suit every season or occasion. Enjoy responsibly!
Industry Recognition
Awards and Accolades
Western Son Vodka has gained considerable recognition in the industry, with multiple awards and accolades to its name. Some of their most notable achievements include:
- 2021 Growth Brands Award: Western Son Vodka received this award for the fourth consecutive year, signifying its consistent growth and popularity in the market.
- 2017 Sip Gold Awards: The distillery won this award for its blueberry western vodka flavor, showcasing the quality of its creative and unique vodka flavors.
- 2018 Sip Awards: Western Son Vodka received a Platinum award for their Prickly Pear flavor and a Double Gold award for their lime-flavored vodka. These awards further establish the brand as a serious player in the premium vodka market.
Media Coverage
Western Son Distillery has also managed to capture media attention, amplifying its brand presence and reach. Some key media coverage includes:
- Beverage Dynamics: Western Son Distillery was featured in this publication as one of America's Fastest-Growing Spirits Brands. They were recognized as a 2020 Growth Brand Winner, indicating their strong performance in the U.S. market.
- Interview with Beverage Dynamics: This publication also conducted an interview with Erin King, Western Son director of brand marketing & on-premise, discussing the company's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its innovative approach to the changing market landscape.
- Entertainment Coverage: Western Son Distillery has also been reported to be expanding its reach in the spirits industry, with its vodka now sold in more than 30 states.
The crafted quality and unique flavors of Western Son Vodka contribute to its growing recognition in the spirits industry. As more consumers taste the product and the brand receives more accolades, the outlook for Western Son Vodka continues to look promising.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the base ingredient?
Western Son Vodka is crafted from 100% American yellow corn. This base ingredient gives the vodka a smooth taste and makes it gluten-free.
Who is the producer?
The producer of Western Son Vodka is the Western Son Distillery, which is known for its hand-crafted spirits that represent the American West's heart.
When was it established?
Western Son Vodka was first introduced in 2011 by a small group of individuals who left the corporate world to create quality distilled spirits.
Which category of liquor?
Western Son Vodka falls under the vodka category of liquor. It has an ABV (alcohol by volume) of 40% and is made in Texas, United States.
What flavors are available?
In addition to the original, unflavored vodka, Western Son Vodka also offers a range of flavored vodkas, each with its own distinct taste. Some of the flavors include raspberry, blueberry, and peach.
How is it distilled?
Western Son Vodka is column distilled in small batches. This type of distillation process ensures that the final product is of high quality and has an extremely smooth and clean taste.