Crafted in Vermont with unparalleled dedication, Barr Hill Vodka is an exceptional spirit distilled entirely from raw honey, embodying the delicate essence of wildflower fields. Utilizing sustainable beekeeping practices, each 750ml bottle features three to four pounds of pure raw honey, cold-fermented to preserve its natural wild yeast and rich aromatics. This vodka boasts a creamy mouthfeel with soft floral notes, hints of vanilla, and a touch of sweetness, offering a velvety-smooth sip perfect for enjoying neat or enhancing cocktails like Vespers or Mules. Gluten-free, kosher, and distilled only twice to maintain its purity, Barr Hill Vodka is a true tribute to the craftsmanship of its beekeeper origins and the agricultural beauty of Vermont. With its award-winning flavor profile and artisanal authenticity, this vodka redefines smoothness and flavor in every glass.
Process & Profile
Barr Hill Vodka is an artisanal spirit crafted exclusively from raw northern honey, making it one of the most distinctive vodkas in the world. Produced by Caledonia Spirits in the lush Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, this vodka honors sustainable practices and local beekeepers. Each bottle requires 3-4 pounds of raw honey, representing the life's work of nearly 900 bees. The honey undergoes a cold fermentation process lasting 2-3 weeks at 24 Brix before being distilled twice—once through a pot still and then through a column still—retaining subtle honey aromatics and depth of flavor. Unlike conventional vodkas, it is not distilled to neutral oblivion; Barr Hill Vodka is smooth yet characterful, delivering a nuanced drinking experience.
Tasting Notes
Barr Hill Vodka is celebrated for its clean, floral character and silky mouthfeel. The
nose carries a delicate floral sweetness reminiscent of wildflower nectar. On the
palate, the vodka unfolds with soft notes of honey, vanilla, and a hint of wildflowers, delivering depth and elegance. The
finish is medium-length with a touch of pepper and lingering subtle sweetness, offering a refined and memorable drinking experience.
What Makes It Special
What sets Barr Hill Vodka apart is its dedication to preserving the natural essence of honey. By never heating the honey prior to fermentation and limiting distillation to just two cycles, the process safeguards the aromatic and flavor complexities of the nectar. This meticulous technique highlights the terroir of Vermont's flora, reflecting a harmonious balance between agriculture and craftsmanship. The use of raw honey makes it naturally gluten-free and kosher, appealing to a wide range of consumers. This commitment to quality, sustainability, and local sourcing defines Barr Hill Vodka as a rare gem in the world of spirits.
How to Enjoy
Barr Hill Vodka's versatile flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for sipping neat or enhancing sophisticated cocktails. Its creamy texture and complex floral notes elevate classic drinks. Here are a few recommendations:
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Vesper Martini: Combine 2 oz Barr Hill Vodka, 1 oz Barr Hill Gin, and 0.5 oz Cocchi Americano Bianco. Stir, strain, and garnish with a lemon twist for an elegant cocktail experience.
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Walk on Water Cocktail: Blend 0.75 oz Barr Hill Vodka with 0.5 oz Amaro Braulio, 1 oz grapefruit juice, 0.5 oz rosemary syrup, and top with sparkling wine. Garnish with an orange twist and a rosemary sprig for a refreshing drink.
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Mule Variations: Pair with ginger beer and lime for an outstanding Moscow Mule, where the honey undertones add an extra layer of flavor.
Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a creative cocktail, Barr Hill Vodka transforms every sip into a celebration of Vermont's natural beauty and craftsmanship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Barr Hill Vodka unique in its production process?
Barr Hill Vodka is crafted entirely from raw northern honey, using no other ingredients. The honey is never heated prior to fermentation, and the vodka is distilled only twice to preserve the floral and aromatic qualities of the honey. This results in a smooth, flavorful vodka with subtle honey tasting notes, ensuring it stands apart from typical neutral vodkas.
Does the vodka taste sweet since it is made from honey?
No, despite being made from raw honey, Barr Hill Vodka is not sweet. It retains a dry taste characteristic of vodka, with delicate aromatic notes from the honey's botanical complexity.
How much honey is used to produce each bottle of Barr Hill Vodka?
Each 750mL bottle of Barr Hill Vodka contains approximately 3-4 pounds of raw honey, which equates to the precious work of nearly 893 honey bees.
What is the alcohol content of Barr Hill Vodka?
Barr Hill Vodka has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 40%, making it 80 proof.
Is Barr Hill Vodka sustainable?
Yes, Barr Hill is committed to sustainability. The distillery incorporates eco-friendly practices such as using solar panels and repurposing distillation heat, while also supporting responsible beekeeping and promoting pollinator habitats through initiatives like Bee's Knees Week.
Can I visit the Barr Hill distillery?
Yes, visitors are welcome to the Barr Hill distillery in Montpelier, Vermont, where they can enjoy a full craft cocktail bar and learn about the distillation process. The distillery also offers a retail space for purchasing spirits on-site.
Is Barr Hill Vodka available for online purchase and shipping?
Yes, Barr Hill Vodka can be purchased online, but federal regulations require that orders be shipped to an address with someone 21+ available to sign for delivery. Note that they cannot ship spirits to Vermont addresses, but the vodka is available at the distillery and 802Spirits stores throughout the state.
What cocktails can I make with Barr Hill Vodka?
Barr Hill Vodka's refined flavor profile makes it ideal for cocktails like a Vesper Martini, a Spritz, or a Mule. Its subtle honey undertones open up creative possibilities for mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
Why is Barr Hill Vodka a tribute to beekeepers?
Barr Hill Vodka celebrates the work of beekeepers who provide the pure raw honey essential to its production. By using honey as the sole ingredient, the spirit highlights the natural flavors derived from wildflower fields and emphasizes the importance of pollinator health.
How does Barr Hill Vodka contribute to agricultural sustainability?
The distillery's focus on using responsibly farmed raw honey supports local agriculture and helps combat monoculture and pesticide use. Additionally, Barr Hill actively promotes ecological health by planting pollinator habitats in collaboration with nonprofit organizations.