JJ Whitley Potato Vodka

I love potato vodkas. Some people say all vodkas taste the same, but some people can be wrong.

So I was pleased to hear about a new vodka brand, JJ Whitley, that is celebrating the British countryside with its vodka and gin flavours. In addition to a straightforward London Dry Gin they make an Elderflower Gin, and both Rhubarb Vodka and Potato Vodka. I’m intrigued by the Rhubarb Vodka, which I hope to sample very soon (my review is now here), but started with their Potato Vodka, in its stylish and elegant bottle.

**Learn more about potatoes, vodka and terroir from Vestal Vodka’s William Borrell.**

Tasting JJ Whitley Potato Vodka

Elegance was also a word that sprang into my mind when I sniffed the vodka. Can a smell be elegant? Well, it can if that’s what pops into your mind. It was smooth, too, and had a slight earthiness about it, which shouldn’t be surprising.

Tasting it, it’s equally smooth, almost like drinking water but water which, in this case, is 38.6% ABV. There were hints of citrus, and also a very faint liquorice taste. It also tasted exceptionally thick and creamy. Maybe they used mashed potatoes (ho-ho).

Hints of Black Pepper

I actually wrote these notes before taking a closer look at the label, which talks of a creamy taste. See, I was right. It also mentions hints of black pepper. Hmm… that was my excuse to pour a second shot. Well, yes, maybe there’s some black pepper in there. There’s certainly a bit of spiciness, and the second shot was just as smooth going down as the first.

I’ll be keeping this as a sipping vodka, although the company says it is excellent in a martini. I can believe that. Yes, I definitely like potato vodkas, and certainly this potato vodka from JJ Whitley.