Some drink connoisseurs feel that there is little need for top shelf vodka, based on the notion that the important thing with the alcohol is to make it crisp, clean and neutral only. While making the cleanest, crispest vodka with little flavor or aftertaste remains the goal for many cheap vodka brands, ultra-premium vodka expressions are different, both in the use of flavor and style of production.

The best vodka brands make sure that they are distilled multiple times and use the best water possible in filtering the distillate down from pure alcohol to its bottle ABV (usually from 37-45% ABV). Some even have their distillery located on artesian wells or near extra clean water sources for this reason (it helps keep costs down).

They aren’t afraid to be innovative and creative with source materials and flavored vodka either. This list features vodka made from potato, honey, rice, rye, wheat, and even agave made to make tequila, which adds to the uniqueness of each bottle’s flavor.

The following list of top shelf vodka to enjoy in 2021 features a tremendous array of liquor from the world’s most famous producers and other independent distillers. I’m sure that at least one of these expressions will make their way into your favorites collection.

Best Buy

1. Beluga Noble Russian Vodka

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The Beluga Noble Russian Vodka Mariisnk Distillery was established in 1900 right in the heart of Siberia. It is expertly crafted using a combination of modern technology and distilling experience, fine 100% non-GMO wheat, and pure artesian water from A quartz seam in the Siberian bedrock to create a truly fantastic expression.

Some ultra premium vodka has a lovely subtle taste and the influence of hints of bold flavor, while others are made smooth without any fire or afterburn. Beluga Russian Vodka is one of the only vodkas that can lay claim to doing both, running counter to the claim that you should “only drink cheap vodka because it’s a neutral spirit and the good liquor is no different.”