Koskenkorva Vodka Original 37.5%

Koskenkorva Original is distilled by Altia in the village of Koskenkorva in Finland, using local wholegrain barley and clear glacial water. Barley gives a soft, faintly sweet cereal character, and the distillery runs the spirit through a continuous column still said to stand over 200 metres tall, a process that rectifies the alcohol into something exceptionally clean and consistent. Bottled at 37.5% and certified vegan, it leans towards neutrality while keeping a quiet grain presence.

The nose is light and clean with a subtle cereal note. The palate is mild and smooth with a gentle sweetness and clear barley character, and the finish is clean and unfussy. Because it is so even and cold-friendly, the right move is the Nordic one: keep the bottle in the freezer and pour it as an ice-cold shot alongside food, where its mild sweetness sits well with cured fish or a plate of pickles.