1797 | Spirits, US Misc, $20 to $50

A new vodka from the Lonestar State, truly hand-crafted in a single pot still. Double Gold at the World Spirits Competition, whose elite panel of judges included our nationally recognized Spirits Specialist Joe Congiusti.

"The grain takes a backseat in the early sniffing stages as bittersweet bean- and kernel-like scents dominate; later whiffs merely confirm the intense bean/cocoa quality. Palate entry mirrors the bouquet to a tee; at midpalate, the kernel-like intensity turns smooth and viscous on the tongue. Ends bittersweet and oily." 85-89 pts.

"First aromas make me think peaches and blood oranges; later sniffings detect cotton candy and fabric. The gently fruity entry taste pleases the taste buds; at midpalate the peach component becomes more apparent as the orange element recedes. Finishes herbal, slightly honeyed, and more bittersweet than flat out sweet. Best Buy." 85-89 pts.

"Aroma includes honey, sherry, dried fruit, spearmint and nougat, black tea, cocoa butter and tropical fruit. Palate offers bittersweet chocolate, brown sugar, honey-coated peanuts, melon, Sherry and nougat. A modern-day classic. Best Buy." 96-100 pts.

"Burnished copper color. Stewed prune, raisin toast, and caramelized nut aromas follow through on a soft, brisk entry to a dryish light-to-medium body with a distinct walnut fudge note. Finishes with a wet stone, raisin box, and pepper dust fade."

"Clear. Aromas of cream of wheat, brown sugar, licorice, and delicate peppery spices follow through on a supple, satiny entry to a dry-yet-fruity medium-to-full body with citrus and peach custard and herbal juniper notes. Finishes with a vibrant anise seed, citrus marmalade on a sweet wheat cracker, and white pepper fade. A smooth, lively gin and will shine in cocktails. Gold Medal."
Made with wheat and juniper berries from Washington Island, Wisconsin.

A liqueur flavored with the acai fruit.