Tito's Handmade Vodka has gained quite a reputation as America's Original Craft Vodka, and for good reason. Produced in Austin, Texas, this award-winning spirit takes its craft to new heights with carefully curated ingredients and a refined distillation process. As you delve into the world of Tito's, you'll discover a vodka made from yellow corn, rather than traditional potatoes or wheat. This selection offers a distinct flavor profile, earning the brand an esteemed place in the beverage industry.
Founded in 1997 by Tito Beveridge, Tito's quickly earned its status as Texas' first legal distillery. Utilizing old-fashioned copper pot stills and distilling the product six times, the company creates a vodka of exceptional quality. This meticulous creation process, along with the brand's dedication to charitable causes, has helped Tito's Vodka establish lasting connections with appreciative fans and connoisseurs alike.
As you explore the fascinating history and unique approach that set Tito's apart from the competition, you'll no doubt gain a deeper appreciation for the dedication and craftsmanship required to produce such a sought-after spirit. Whether you're a vodka enthusiast or someone looking to try something new, Tito's Handmade Vodka is a worthy addition to your drinking repertoire.
History of Tito's Vodka
Tito Beveridge's Background
Before starting Tito's Handmade Vodka, Tito Beveridge earned degrees in geology and geophysics from the University of Texas. After working in these fields, he moved on to the drilling company and later the mortgage business.
Birth of Tito's Handmade Vodka
In 1997, Tito Beveridge founded Fifth Generation, and with it, Tito's Handmade Vodka was born in Austin, Texas. The vodka is distinctively produced from yellow corn, rather than potatoes or wheat, and goes through a distillation process six times. This unique approach led to Tito's Handmade Vodka being known as America's Original Craft Vodka.
Rise to Success
Initially only available locally in Austin, Tito's Vodka quickly gained popularity and expanded distribution throughout the United States. The rapid growth is attributed to your founder's extroverted nature, natural sales skills, and passion for infusing vodka with flavors. In September 2016, Tito's Vodka overtook Smirnoff, a British conglomerate-owned former Russian vodka brand, to become the No. 1 position in U.S. sales.
Forbes Recognition
The enormous success of Tito’s Handmade Vodka and its dedication to craftsmanship has not gone unnoticed. Forbes recognized founder Bert “Tito” Beveridge II for achievements in entrepreneurship and for paving the way for future craft distilleries.
Through Tito Beveridge's background in geology and geophysics, a natural sales ability, and a love for infusing vodka flavors, Tito's Handmade Vodka has become a cornerstone in the American vodka industry. So, it is no wonder that it has gained such prestige and recognition in the United States and beyond.
Production and Distillation Process
Pot Still Distillation
When it comes to the production of Tito's Vodka, pot still distillation is essential. Using traditional copper pot stills, this method allows for greater control over the final product's quality. The distillation process involves heating the mixture to separate the alcohol from other components. As the alcohol evaporates and condenses, it results in a purer and smoother vodka.
Handmade Vodka
Emphasizing craftsmanship, Tito's Vodka is known as a handmade vodka because it's produced in small batches. This dedication to quality offers you a more authentic experience, setting it apart from mass-produced spirits. By focusing on small-scale production, Tito's can ensure that every bottle meets their high standards for taste and smoothness.
Ingredients and Recipe
Tito's Vodka uses just one primary ingredient: corn. This choice of 100% corn not only makes the vodka gluten-free but also contributes to its distinctive flavor profile. The corn-based recipe is transformed through a meticulous distilling process that includes filtration to remove impurities and unwanted flavors. The result is a pure, smooth, and flavorful spirit that you'll appreciate.
Quality Control
To maintain the quality and authenticity of Tito's Vodka, strict quality control measures are in place throughout the entire production process. From the selection of ingredients to the final touches, each stage is carefully monitored to ensure consistency and excellence. You can trust that when you drink Tito's, you're enjoying a steadily crafted vodka that meets the brand's high standards each time.
By understanding the production and distillation process of Tito's Vodka, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the attention to detail and dedication to quality that goes into every bottle. This knowledge will make each sip of Tito's Vodka even more enjoyable, knowing that you are experiencing a true craft vodka.
Awards and Recognitions
San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Your Tito's Vodka has received numerous awards at the esteemed San Francisco World Spirits Competition. This competition is one of the most prestigious in the spirits industry, putting single malt scotches and French cognacs to the test every year. Among these accolades, Tito's Vodka has proudly taken home a double gold medal, which indicates that the vodka is smooth and of the highest quality.
A double gold medal at this distinguished competition is a noteworthy accomplishment that speaks to the exceptional quality of Tito's Vodka. This ranking is not easily achieved, and your vodka has established itself as one of the top choices in its category.
Other Accolades
Tito's Vodka boasts more than just the San Francisco World Spirits Competition recognition in its portfolio. You can be proud to know it also supports local talents with the annual Tito's Prize. This $15,000 award, facilitated by the nonprofit gallery Big Medium, is given to one Austin-based artist every year. The prestigious prize also includes a solo exhibition at the Big Medium Gallery at Canopy, offering valuable exposure to the winning artist.
Your Tito's Vodka continually strives for excellence and maintains a strong connection to its community. Through its discerning taste, exceptional smoothness, and support for local artists, Tito's maintains its sterling reputation in the spirits industry.
Tasting Notes and Cocktails
Tito's Vodka Taste Profile
When tasting Tito's Vodka, you'll notice its smooth texture and clean finish. This is partly due to the fact that it is made in small batches and distilled through old-fashioned pot stills, giving it a high level of quality and consistency. As a corn-based vodka, its flavor profile is generally mild and versatile, making it perfect for a variety of cocktails.
Popular Tito's Vodka Cocktails
Tito's Vodka is known for its ability to blend seamlessly with a wide range of mixers, enhancing the flavors of both classic and innovative cocktails. Here are some popular Tito's Vodka cocktails that you can try:
- Espresso Martini: This bold and boozy cocktail is perfect for coffee lovers. The recipe includes:
- Tito's Vodka
- Kahlua
- Espresso
- With its rich, sweet, and smooth flavor, this Espresso Martini is dangerously addictive.
- Bloody Mary: A classic brunch favorite, the Bloody Mary is a savory, spicy cocktail made with:
- Tito's Vodka
- Tomato juice
- Worcestershire sauce
- Hot sauce
- Lemon juice
- Horseradish
- Celery salt
- Ground pepper
- Garnished with celery stalk, olives, and pickles
- Tito's Vodka's clean finish complements the robust flavors of this cocktail and takes it to a new level.
- Simple Cocktail: Sometimes, less is more. A simple cocktail with Tito's Vodka showcases its smooth and versatile taste. Try mixing Tito's Vodka with your favorite mixer, be it soda, tonic water, or even freshly squeezed juice.
By exploring Tito's Vodka's taste profile and trying out some popular cocktails, you'll quickly understand why this handmade, crafted liquor has gained a loyal following. Enjoy experimenting with different recipes and savoring the smooth taste of Tito's Vodka.
Price and Market Share
Comparison with Other Vodka Brands
When considering the price of Tito's Handmade Vodka, it is helpful to compare it with other vodka brands. Tito's Vodka typically costs around $19.99 for a 750ml bottle and $33.33 for a 1.75ml bottle. Comparing this to Smirnoff, a popular budget vodka brand, you'll find that Tito's Vodka is slightly more expensive. However, Tito's Handmade Vodka is praised for its high quality, making it worth the price difference for many consumers.
Distribution and Sales
Focusing on the United States, Tito's Handmade Vodka has experienced significant growth in sales volume in recent years. In 2021, the brand recorded sales amounting to about 11.01 million 9-liter cases. This impressive performance has allowed Tito's Handmade Vodka to secure a strong position in the US spirits market.
The global vodka market size reached a valuation of $35.9 billion in 2021, with expected growth at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2022 to 2028. Premium vodka, such as Tito's Handmade Vodka, has experienced increased demand, particularly in developed economies like the United States and Germany. The market's growth can also be attributed to the popular flavored options like cranberry, lime, and raspberry vodka.
So, when it comes to Tito's Vodka, you're dealing with a high-quality product that commands a competitive price point and holds a strong presence in the market. As a consumer, this means you can expect consistent quality and widespread availability of Tito's Handmade Vodka.
Tito's Vodka for Dog People Program
Tito's Handmade Vodka has been dedicated to helping dogs and their families for over 25 years through their Vodka for Dog People program. The program aims to support various animal-focused nonprofits and protect pets in need. Within this program, there are various sub-sections such as Nonprofit Collaborations, Donations, and Fundraising.
Nonprofit Collaborations
As part of the Vodka for Dog People program, Tito's Vodka partners with organizations across the country to transport dogs from dangerous situations to safety. One notable partnership is with Emancipet, an organization that helps families access affordable veterinary care. Another collaboration worth mentioning is with the Bissell Pet Foundation, a program committed to supporting shelters and rescues by providing essential resources.
Donations
Tito's Vodka has been able to donate significant amounts of money through the Vodka for Dog People program. As a result, they've effectively assisted numerous animal-focused nonprofits and rescued over 120 dogs from their distillery. By purchasing Tito's merchandise, you can contribute directly to these donations, as the profits go towards supporting these nonprofit collaborations.
Fundraising
Fundraising initiatives play an essential role in the Vodka for Dog People program. Tito's organizes and participates in various fundraising events for their partner organizations. One of their unique fundraising initiatives includes Walktail events, where participants raise money for a cause while enjoying a walk with their furry friends. So not only can you enjoy Tito's Vodka, but you can also actively participate in these fundraising efforts and make a difference for pets in need.
Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations
Calories and Health Benefits
When it comes to Tito's Handmade Vodka, you'll find that it's a relatively low-calorie alcoholic beverage. One shot (1 oz) of Tito's Vodka contains only 70 calories. Additionally, it has:
- 0g Fat
- 0g Carbohydrates
- 0g Sugars
- 0g Protein
As a drinker, you should be aware that while Tito's Vodka is lower in calories compared to other beverages, moderation is crucial. Drinking alcohol can still contribute to weight gain, so carefully track your intake if you're trying to manage your weight.
Gluten-Free Certification
For those who have a gluten intolerance or prefer to follow a gluten-free diet, you'll be glad to know that Tito's Handmade Vodka is certified gluten-free. This means that Tito's is:
- Made from 100% corn, a gluten-free grain
- Produced in dedicated, gluten-free facilities
- Continually taste-tested for quality assurance
Enjoying Tito's Vodka as your go-to alcoholic beverage can provide peace of mind, knowing that the ingredients and production process align with your gluten-free dietary considerations.
Please remember that consuming alcoholic beverages in moderation is essential for maintaining a balanced, healthy lifestyle. Drink responsibly and enjoy the unique taste of Tito's Handmade Vodka.
Tito's Hand Sanitizer Initiative
Response to COVID-19 Pandemic
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Tito's Handmade Vodka has made a significant effort to support their local communities and frontline workers. Drawing from the resources at their Mockingbird Distillery, they began producing hand sanitizer to help alleviate the widespread shortages experienced during the pandemic. Tito's Hand Sanitizer was created not only to benefit the company but, more importantly, to contribute positively to the situation at hand.
Production and Distribution
Tito's transformed its distillery to produce an initial 24 tons of hand sanitizer. After obtaining approval from both industry and government officials, they focused on the distribution to ensure their product reached those who needed it most. Many cities throughout Texas and subsequently, throughout the United States, received free hand sanitizer from Tito's initiative.
As the pandemic continued, Tito's expanded its efforts and by May 27, 2020, had managed to produce, package and donate over 325 tons of hand sanitizer to communities across the United States. This initiative further solidified Tito's commitment to helping those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Throughout the initiative, Tito's has utilized various channels to ensure delivery of their hand sanitizer, one of which includes their partnership with the alcohol delivery service, Drizly. By working together, they were able to get sanitizer to customers as well as those living in areas like San Antonio.
In conclusion, Tito's Hand Sanitizer Initiative is a testament to the company's dedication to supporting communities and frontline workers during challenging times. By utilizing their resources and forming strategic partnerships, they have made a significant impact in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price of Tito's Vodka at Walmart?
The price of Tito's Vodka at Walmart may vary depending on your location and specific store. To find the most accurate pricing, visit your local Walmart's website or store and search for Tito's Vodka.
Is there a Tito's tequila?
No, there is no Tito's tequila. Tito's Handmade Vodka is a corn-based vodka produced in Austin, Texas. The brand is focused on making high-quality vodka and does not produce tequila.
Where can I buy Tito's Vodka?
You can buy Tito's Vodka at most liquor stores and supermarkets, such as Walmart and Target. You may also find it online at various websites, including the official Tito's Handmade Vodka website and online liquor retailers.
Is Tito's considered cheap?
Tito's Vodka is positioned as a mid-priced spirit. Although it might not be considered the most inexpensive option on the market, it is typically priced lower than some of the higher-end brands like Grey Goose. Given its reputation for quality and smooth taste, Tito's offers good value for its price.
How does Tito's compare to Grey Goose?
Tito's Vodka and Grey Goose are both considered high-quality vodkas. While Tito's is distilled from corn and is gluten-free, Grey Goose is made from French wheat. Taste preferences are subjective, and some may prefer one over the other. To get a better understanding of which vodka suits your taste, consider trying both and comparing them yourself.
What's Tito's Vodka ranking?
Tito's Vodka ranking may vary depending on the review or award source. However, it has consistently garnered high praise and has won numerous awards in various international spirits competitions. Tito's Handmade Vodka has established a strong reputation for its high-quality and smooth taste within the spirits industry.