Blackwattle Distilling Co Five Score Vodka
This is the stronger, 50% abv version of the brand's Australian Grain Vodka. In the US, 50% abv might be called '100 proof', hence the Five Score moniker, with a 'score' being 20 in the old parlance, so five score totalling 100. But why make a 50% vodka? While rare in vodka, other spirits are often bottled at higher strengths to give them extra punch and texture, especially in cocktails, so I’m happy to see this approach as a cocktail-focused innovation. Despite the extra booze, the nose here is still clean and crisp without any ethanol burn; an impressive feat. Sweet across the palate, with notes of white pepper and a pleasant warmth that never tips over into heat. This is a vodka I would happily reach for as a cold shot with some oysters or a powerful dry martini, and comes at a great price.
