Notes: This Vodka is produced in the Burgundy area of France from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir Grapes. (If they were grown in the Champagne region they could have made the juice into champagne.) Distilled 7 times by fractional distillation in a column still, then filtered 5 times. Since it is made from grapes it is an excellent choice for anyone with gluten or wheat intolerance looking for a vodka.

Appearance: Crystal clear, no sediment whatsoever. On swirling it leaves a thin clear coat on the inside of the glass with some legs. Viscous look and feel.

First Impression: A rounder, deeper smell than a grain vodka. No smell of esters or oils; clean. A slight chardonnay and nuts smell.

Taste: Slightly oily on the tongue, thick body. Crisp, mild bite to it on the middle of your tongue. Traces of a sesame oil-like aftertaste or more like a good thai satay. Chilling brings out the sweetness and body even more.

Drinks: The martini was very smooth.In other drinks it proved to be very versitle and more subtle than a number of other vodkas. Makes for a deadly vodka version of a French 75. NOTE: Use Noilly Prat and  keep the vermouth refrigerated after opening for the best taste.  

Bottle: Cylindrical with squared off shoulder, frosted “Idol” in purple with a bunch of grapes picked out by clear glass and a white silkscreening/frosting effect that looks like a ying yang symbol.

Final Thoughts: A interesting expression of a french grape vodka. Completely different than Ciroc. Closer to a really good potato vodka (no grain sharpness or burn). Very smooth, interesting and different. A great addition to a wine lovers bar.

Website: http://www.idolvodka.com  

Medium fast loading, lots of information and attractive graphics. Easy-to-read. Good content and descriptions. Small recipe section with good martini mixing tips.