Vodka made from agave is a unique and intriguing concept that combines the smoothness of vodka with the distinct flavors of agave. While vodka is traditionally made from grains or potatoes, there are a few brands that have ventured into the realm of agave-based vodka, offering a new and exciting taste profile.
One notable example of vodka made from agave is Onyx, a recent addition to the Crystal Head Vodka lineup. Onyx is a special expression of Crystal Head Vodka that was launched in 2020. What sets Onyx apart is its use of premium Blue Weber agave as the base ingredient, sourced from a single farm in Mexico. This sets the stage for a vodka that showcases the unique characteristics of agave in a way that is typically associated with tequila.
The choice to use Blue Weber agave as the main ingredient in Onyx is significant. Blue Weber agave is the same plant used for the production of tequila, which is renowned for its smoothness and complex flavors. By utilizing this agave variety, Onyx aims to offer a vodka that not only provides a clean and crisp taste but also carries hints of the distinctive agave flavors.
Crafting vodka from agave requires a meticulous and precise process. The agave plants are harvested, and the hearts, or piñas, are extracted. These piñas are then roasted, fermented, and distilled to create a neutral spirit that forms the base of the vodka. This process ensures that the unique flavors of the agave are preserved while still maintaining the smoothness and purity that vodka is known for.
The result of this careful production process is a vodka that offers a truly unique taste experience. Onyx, for example, boasts a silky-smooth texture with subtle notes of agave, lending a touch of sweetness to the overall profile. The agave flavors are not overpowering but rather provide a pleasant and intriguing complexity to the vodka.
It is important to note that vodka made from agave is still relatively rare compared to traditional grain or potato-based vodkas. However, the emergence of brands like Onyx showcases the increasing interest in exploring new and innovative variations within the vodka category.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and evaluate a wide range of spirits, including various vodkas. While the majority of vodkas I have encountered have been grain or potato-based, the few agave-based vodkas I have tried have left a lasting impression.
The use of agave as a base ingredient adds a layer of complexity and depth to the vodka, elevating it beyond its traditional counterparts. The subtle sweetness and unique flavor profile of agave create a distinctive drinking experience that is both enjoyable and memorable.
Vodka made from agave, such as Onyx, offers a fascinating twist on the traditional spirit. By utilizing premium Blue Weber agave and employing a meticulous production process, these vodkas showcase the unique characteristics of agave while maintaining the smoothness and purity that vodka is known for. If you are looking to explore new flavor profiles within the vodka category, agave-based vodkas are definitely worth a try.