Vodka Notes: Imperial Exclusive Vodka

Imperial Exclusive Vodka from Emperor Brands L.L.C., made in France, is 40% abv. / 80 proof. This super premium vodka is made from a secret recipe that has been handed down for generations. This is a very clean and clear vodka made from the finest French grains and ultra pure and smooth Normandy water, then distilled five times. Many vodkas have as much taste as a glass of pure medicinal grade alcohol. In other words, none. They have had every trace of taste filtered out until there is no character left. That is not the case with Imperial Exclusive Vodka.

When I first tried this spirit I immediately noticed the aroma. Faint but very evident hints of butter, sweet caramel or toffee, the slightest trace of vanilla. I was trying to place the exact scent when it struck me. It was like the faintest touch of the best part of the aromas from the gorgeous movie theaters I vaguely remember from my childhood. Not the cookie cutter places that have two dozen tiny theaters crowded under one roof that you find today. Perpetually grimy and lacking soul. No, I mean the grand old places that only played one movie for a week or two before the next came along. The ones that were spotlessly clean, had comfy, red velvet chairs to sink deep into; and ushers to help you to your seats. Walls decorated with hand-painted murals and thick velvet curtains thirty feet high that spread across the walls right before the lights dimmed to soften the acoustics of the room.

What I remember the most was that in the air was the smell of homemade, buttery tasting toffee covered popcorn. A fragrance that makes me think of the fun of childhood, comfort and security, a day spent out for a special treat. There were fascinating things to see on the big screen, where there was no spouting blood when someone got shot. Just a discrete fall to the ground with some tame theatrics. The aroma of the vodka took me back to a better place when I was young and innocent.

The taste was more of the same as in the aroma, just intensified. It is very, very smooth. I sipped it warm and straight from a snifter and let the sweet hints of butter and toffee spread along my tongue where it was buttery in texture as well. It just seemed to explode in flavor as it filled my mouth and nose, and then slowly warmed its way down my throat. This is an absolutely wonderful spirit that makes me rethink my whole opinion on vodka in a delightful way. I look forward to making my way through this elegant tasting bottle of Imperial Exclusive Vodka over the next few weeks. I enjoyed this chilled while sipping icy shots with dinner, and after dinner on the rocks. I especially liked it when a splash of a premium tonic water was added, it was a perfect match that brought out even more notes from the vodka.

On their website I found out that this distillery makes several other vodkas and I can't wait to try them all. So far they are available in only a few regions, but expect them in your area soon. All of you premium vodka lovers out there should keep your eyes out for them or ask your local liquor store if they can order it for you.