Most vodkas are made by fermenting wheat or potatoes. But there’s a new vodka in town – Bob’s Super Smooth – the first in Canada made using whey.
A familiar ingredient to anyone that uses protein powders, whey is a by-product of the cheese-making process. Also known as milk vodkas, whey vodkas were developed in New Zealand and became popular for being the “vodka for those that don’t normally like vodka,” as Bob’s co-founder Rob Kelly explains. “It doesn’t burn on the way down like many traditional grain or corn-based ones do.”
After the spirit is made, it’s triple-distilled then filtered through charcoal made from coconut husks. This not only removes impurities but also adds a bit of character and flavour. The filtered spirit is then mixed with water sourced from an aquifer under the Elmvale Clay Plain near Collingwood, which some scientists say is the purest water in the world.
While Bob’s can be used in any vodka-based shot or cocktail, we opted to try it neat to test its claims for being burn-free. And while there’s undoubtedly a lingering sizzle in our throats, Bob’s is noticeably smoother than your typical vodka and its slightly sweet finish was welcome. It’s gluten-free and lactose-free to boot with an affordable price tag, making this an excellent go-to for parties.
$26.95; LCBO
