Grey Goose Vodka + Led Lichtsticker

Grey Goose is produced in the Cognac region of France, built from soft winter wheat grown in Picardy and spring water drawn at Gensac-la-Pallue. Where many vodkas are distilled many times to strip the spirit back toward neutral, Grey Goose runs a precise single distillation overseen by Maitre de Chai Francois Thibault, deliberately keeping more of the wheat's soft, slightly sweet character in the glass. Wheat is what gives the vodka its velvety body, and the restrained distillation is why it reads as smooth and gently flavoured rather than scrubbed clean.

The nose carries subtle almond, light vanilla and a hint of fresh wheat, the palate is soft and velvety with elegant cereal nuances, a fine sweetness and a clean feel, and the finish is long and smooth. That polished wheat profile rewards a sharp, simple cocktail, so make a Vodka Gimlet: shake the Grey Goose with fresh lime juice and a little sugar syrup, strain very cold and garnish with a lime wheel, where the bright acidity frames the wheat's softness. With three litres on hand and a glowing bottle, it is a serve made to pour for a crowd.