Sobieski Vodka entered the U.S. market in September 2007, promising premium vodka at a reasonable price. Can they do it?
Meet Sobieski Vodka. Sobieski may be new to the U.S., but it's not really a new vodka. It's the #1 selling premium vodka in Poland, the birthplace of vodka, and one of the fastest growing brands in the world. The distillery dates back to 1846, and the vodka is distilled exclusively from Dankowski rye, which can rightly be considered one of the crown jewels of grain.
I was given the opportunity recently to try Sobieski, and of course, I jumped on it. Not only do I enjoy vodka, but I was intrigued by their "Truth in Vodka" campaign. They promise a premium vodka at a much lower price - $19.99 for a 1.75 liter bottle. I'm used to forking over $30, at least, for a really good vodka, and have gone as high as $60 (I won't say I didn't flinch, because I did).
Chester Brandes is President and CEO of Imperial Brands, importer of Sobieski Vodka. He says, "It's time vodka drinkers knew the truth about vodka....they are paying for fancy packaging and bloated marketing costs. It's time to get back to basics with an honest, premium vodka at a price that won't make consumers' heads swim."
It sounds great, and it sounds too good to be true. But it is. Sobieski has a nice heavy mouth-feel, rich flavor, and is incredibly smooth, with just enough burn to know you're drinking vodka. It mixed well in a Bloody Mary but was still delicious with a simple club soda mixer.
Next week, I'm going to try Sobieski on some vodka drinking friends in a little taste-test to get their opinions. But in the meantime, if you're a vodka drinker, give Sobieski a try. It's a worthwhile addition to your collection.
