Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/674905
DEPARTMENT HEADER may 2016 / the tasting panel / 97 Ripe For Picking: DEEP EDDY PEACH VODKA The latest flavor in the Austin brand's robust lineup, Deep Eddy Peach Vodka (SRP $19.99) is handcrafted in small batches with real peaches, at their own Texas, distillery. This is a classic 70-proof American-made vodka. Ripe peaches burst forth in the mouth, juicy and delightful, capturing the essence of summer. All Deep Eddy corn-based vodkas are made with pure Texas water and column distilled 10 times for a clean, pure taste. It's no wonder the gluten-free, handcrafted vodka that relies on natural flavors has brought so much new excitement to the vodka category. —B. T. HEAVEN HILL BRANDS PHOTO: DUSTIN DOWNING Making Your Palate Sing: SMITHWORKS AMERICAN MADE VODKA You can't get more American than country music. It runs deep through farmlands of the country and is inspired by the meaningful moments in life spent with family and friends, which is why it makes perfect sense that Blake Shelton is part of the Smithworks Vodka (SRP $19.99) family. As the spirit of the Heartland, the brand is built on the traditions and values of America's Heartland—like hard work and doing things the right way. Made with corn from Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma and water from Lake Fort Smith, Smithworks is distilled three times and charcoal filtered. It ends its journey in its namesake town, Fort Smith, AK, where it is finished and bottled. Undeniably smooth, the spirit releases a bouquet of lavender and orange peels, which leads to refined notes of corn, vanilla and licorice on the palate. Currently available in Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma, it seems like a trip to the Heartland is in order. —E. C. PERNOD RICARD