Scotland has long been renowned for its contributions to the world, from groundbreaking inventions to cultural icons. Of course, it is also the birthplace of Scottish whisky. In recent years, Scottish craft beer and artisanal gin have surged in popularity, establishing themselves as major players in the drinks industry. But if someone mentioned vodka, would Scotland be the first country to come to mind? Likely not. Russia, Poland, or Sweden might be your first thoughts.

However, Scottish vodka is quietly making waves, carving out its own identity with unique, high-quality expressions. Distillers across the country are putting their own spin on this classic spirit, producing vodkas that rival the best in the world.

Here are some of the finest Scottish vodkas worth discovering.

Holy Grass Vodka

Dunnet Bay Distillers, creators of the popular Rock Rose Gin, have expanded into the vodka world with the award-winning Holy Grass Vodka. Named after the fragrant Holy Grass (Anthoxanthum nitens) found on the banks of the Thurso River in Caithness, this vodka carries a rich history. Once used to scent church floors due to its sweet vanilla aroma, Holy Grass lends a natural creaminess to this unique spirit.

The result is a smooth and aromatic vodka with deep vanilla tones, perfectly complemented by the infusion of apples, which add a bright, crisp finish. This is a vodka for those who appreciate complexity and natural character in their spirits.

Arbikie Chilli Vodka

Nestled in the Scottish Highlands, Arbikie Highland Estate Distillery has a rich heritage, with records of distillation dating back to 1794. The modern distillery, founded in 2013, quickly made a name for itself with its innovative approach to spirits. Their Tattie Bogle Potato Vodka was the first release, gaining widespread acclaim.

One of their standout creations is the Smoky and Smooth Chilli Vodka, a bold and exciting infusion of their high-quality potato vodka with chillies from Scotland’s first chilli farm. This results in a warming yet well-balanced vodka, where smokiness takes centre stage alongside a touch of spice—perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their drinks.

Smugglers Vodka

I first discovered Smugglers Vodka at the Foodies Festival in Glasgow, and it left a lasting impression. Crafted at the foot of the Pentland Hills, this premium vodka is distilled using GMO-free Scottish wheat and the purest Scottish water, ensuring a smooth and refined drinking experience.

Produced at the Secret Garden Distillery, which is dedicated to sustainability and aims to become carbon-negative, this vodka embodies the purity of Scotland’s natural environment. It is crisp, clear, and refreshing, much like a hike to a secluded Scottish loch.

With fragrant citrus notes, sweet honey, and the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread, this vodka offers a smooth, creamy texture. Whether enjoyed neat or in a simple cocktail, it showcases the artistry and craftsmanship behind Scotland’s growing vodka industry.

Dancing Puffin Vodka

Wester Ross in the Highlands is a place I return to several times a year. It is here, amid the rugged beauty of the region, that you’ll find Badachro Distillery (pronounced "bad-ac-row"), home to the exquisite Dancing Puffin Vodka.

Filtered five times for exceptional purity, this small-batch vodka carries a touch of Badachro magic in every bottle. Distilled in traditional copper pot stills and crafted with the finest ingredients and the purest Scottish water, it delivers a smooth and characterful drinking experience.

With its clean yet complex profile, Dancing Puffin Vodka is perfect for sipping neat, over ice, or mixed into a carefully crafted cocktail. It embodies the wild beauty and rich heritage of the Highlands, making it a true taste of Scotland’s natural elements.

Valt Single Malt Vodka

At Strathleven Distillery, innovation and tradition go hand in hand. Using a custom-designed copper still, they achieve higher strengths and finer cuts than conventional distillation methods. Their unique chill filtration system cools the spirit to -12°C, removing all but the purest crystal-clear liquid—an industry first.

Born from a moment of inspiration in a Manhattan bar, Valt was the vision of two Scots who set out to create a vodka unlike any other. Combining the finest Scottish malted barley and mountain water, along with their quintuple micro-distillation process, a combination exclusively for this spirit.

The result? The world’s first Scottish Single Malt Vodka, a drink that pays homage to Scotland’s heritage while paving the way for the future of premium vodka. With an exceptionally smooth character and distinctive profile, Valt is a must-try for vodka connoisseurs.

Conclusion

Scotland’s international reputation for whisky remains unparalleled, but its vodka industry is swiftly gaining momentum. With distillers applying the same craftsmanship and dedication to quality that made Scottish whisky world-famous, Scottish vodka is emerging as a serious contender in the premium spirits market. Whether you’re looking for a smooth, creamy vodka to sip neat or a new twist to elevate your cocktails, these Scottish vodkas offer something truly special. So next time you think of vodka, don’t just think of Russia or Poland—Scotland is making its mark, one exceptional bottle at a time.

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