Hudson Valley Distillers sits on Spirits Grove Farm in Clermont, NY. Opened in April 2014, it’s a recent addition to the Hudson Valley’s craft distilling scene, which includes Tuthilltown Spirits (the makers of Hudson Whiskeys), Hillrock Estate and a handful of others. The distillery’s current product lineup includes a bourbon, a couple applejacks and a vodka, also made from apples. And they’re working on an old Tom gin and a whiskey, both set to be released this year.
Hudson Valley Vodka first piqued our interest due to its apple base. While most vodkas are distilled from grains or potatoes, you’ll find a few vodkas distilled from fruits like apples and grapes. It doesn’t make them better, worse or anything at all. The end result still relies on the quality of ingredients and the skill of the distiller, and in this case, Hudson Valley manages to produce a solid, flavorful vodka.
Hudson Valley Vodka is sweet and clean on the nose. Take a drink and the apple notes come forward along with a hint of vanilla and peppery spice. It’s silky on the palate and finishes with lingering notes of sweet fruit.
This is definitely vodka distilled from apples rather than apple vodka. It’s flavorful, but subtle, and the experience from start to finish is a pleasant one.
Stats:
– 40% ABV
– $25 for 375ml, $37 for 750ml
CE Rating: ★★★★
