Vanilla Extract Vodka Quality

Vanilla Extract Vodka Quality - Anonymous person pouring liquid product on table with pipette

Most of the recipes and guides I have read for making vanilla extract say to use cheap vodka or whatever is available; however, if I am going to have it on my shelf for the next few years, I want to make the best extract I possibly can. Is there any benefit to using good vodka over the cheap stuff, or am I throwing my money away?

Also, I don't drink, so I have no idea what the best Vodka is. I did some searching and the consensus seems to be that Russian Standard, Grey Goose, and Skyy are the top 3 mid-range vodkas. What do you recommend?

vanillavodka


Best Answer

I have family in Reunion Island - one top seller of bourbon vanilla. The only vodka they have there is imported, and rhum (or rum if you prefer to spell it that way) is readily available.

Personally I would recommend:

  • 150 ml / 5 oz. of neutral alcohol (e.g. rhum, vodka, eau-de-vie)
  • 2 beans
  • 8 weeks (6 min) without light, occasional shake

You can also use syrup instead of alcohol, but concentration / flavor will be different.

  • 5 oz agave or sugar cane syrup
  • 2 beans

AFAIK:

  • vodka is not mandatory
  • use any vodka you like (e.g. could be in your cupboard already)


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Quick Answer about "Vanilla Extract Vodka Quality"

(The taste of a regular Smirnoff vodka vanilla extract is definitely an A) It's a D+ because there are specific flavor applications available through Smirnoff that might temp a first-time extract maker. We have tried making vanilla extracts with vodkas that have artificial flavors.

Does vodka quality matter for vanilla extract?

The better the quality of the Vodka, the cleaner and smoother it is. For vanilla extract, smoother and cleaner means you get to taste stronger tones of vanilla. The vast majority of Vodka is 80 proof or 40% alcohol.

What kind of vodka is best for making vanilla extract?

Corn vodka definitely makes delicious vanilla extract.

What is the best alcohol for homemade vanilla extract?

What Kind of Alcohol is Best for Making Vanilla Extract? You can use any alcohol as long as it is 80 proof. The best and most popular choices are vodka, bourbon, brandy, or rum. Vodka is the most versatile because it has a neutral flavor.

Can you put vanilla extract in vodka?

Yes, as long as it's 80-proof (40% alcohol by volume). Vodka has a neutral taste, which is why it's the most popular option for extract. It ensures that the vanilla flavor is prominent when used in recipes.


What is the best vodka to use for homemade vanilla extract? We review several brands to help.



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Images: Jill Burrow, Pixabay, João Vítor Heinrichs, Anni Roenkae

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