There’s a new vodka that has come to the US — LEAF Vodka. LEAF is made from the best natural water sources in Alaska and the Rocky Mountains.
We’ve tried dozens of vodkas and were curious about this new brand. My friend and vodka connoisseur, Cavol, accompanied me to the launch event for LEAF vodka where we sampled a variety of cocktails made with LEAF.
Vodka is about 60% water. To taste a smoother, more gratifying vodka, it helps to start a vodka with better water. They’ve searched the world to find that rare quality of water to make with subtle flavorings, yet a truly distinct character. Two varieties introduced in the line—one made from Alaskan Glacial water, which lends a pure, smooth taste with a hint of sweetness. The other, made from Rocky Mountain mineral water, provides richness and complexity, offering a warm and savory impression. The water sources give LEAF Vodkas their signature tastes.
The packaging for LEAF Vodka is designed with the intention to have the contour of a leaf, accentuating the brand and giving it a premium look. With a recommended shelf price of $16.99 for 750mL—and Certified USDA Organic — LEAF Vodka is well positioned within the dynamic and growing vodka category. Based on the clean tastes of both varieties, we thought the bottles would be priced around $40 per bottle.
Currently, LEAF is sold in New Jersey, but in the coming months, the brand will be sold in NY. We look forward to it, but until now, we’ll ask our friends to bring over a bottle or two.
Here are recipes of 2 of our favorite cocktails that we tried at the event:
PINK GLACIER | Inspired by Cosmopolitan Martini
Ingredients
- 2 oz. LEAF Vodka made from Alaskan Glacial Water 1 oz. lime juice
- .75 oz. simple syrup
- .75 oz. pink grapefruit juice
- .5 oz. cranberry juice 1 lime wedge
Method
In a cocktail shaker, combine grapefruit juice, lime juice, simple syrup, vodka, and ice. Shake and strain into a martini glass. Add cranberry juice for color. Garnish with a lime.
TWISTED LEAF | Inspired by Dry Martini
Ingredients
- 4 oz. L EAF Vodka made from Alaskan Glacial Water or
- Rocky Mountain Mineral Water
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary 1 lemon rind
Method
In a cocktail shaker, lightly muddle rosemary, add ice, and then pour in vodka. Stir until shaker is frosted. Pour into a martini glass. Take a lemon rind (zest), and with a lighter, pinch out and burn the oil from the skin into the martini. Smack a piece of rosemary for garnish.