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In Favor of Flavor: Distillers Who Eschew Neutrality in Their Vodkas

A change in TTB rules has opened the door for craft distillers to produce vodkas with character. The next challenge: Convince customers it’s worth the price.

Tiney Ricciardi Feb 27, 2024 - 9 min read

In Favor of Flavor: Distillers Who Eschew Neutrality in Their Vodkas Primary Image

Photo: Anthony Tripoli. Courtesy Harridan Vodka

Historically, Bridgette Taylor never was much of a vodka drinker.

Like many who develop a taste for craft spirits, Taylor gravitated toward those with robust flavor, usually a fine bourbon or tequila. So, when she decided to launch Harridan Vodka in 2020, the 33-year-old aimed to create a spirit with complexity and character worthy of sipping neat.

Taylor decided to use corn grown locally in her home state of New York for the mash bill, and she partnered with a whiskey maker to bring her vision to life. Harridan Vodka is distilled twice to 88 proof and barely filtered, Taylor says, allowing the sweetness of the base ingredient to shine.

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Tiney Ricciardi is a Colorado-based journalist who covers beer, spirits, cannabis, and other "earthly delights." She's also a staff reporter for The Denver Post.

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