The first time I tasted a bloody Mary, its thick texture and spicy taste took me by surprise. I was pretty new to the world of cocktails, particularly to one that had evolved far beyond its initial role. Originally just a brunch drink and a remedy for hangovers, the bloody Mary has now become a common offering in cocktail lounges and eateries worldwide.
I gradually warmed up to this drink’s complex mix of ingredients. Depending on the establishment, it might arrive garnished with shrimp, crab legs, mini burgers, cheese, sweet bacon, olives, peppers, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, and more. If that seems excessive, it’s because it is.
I’ve grown to enjoy bloody Marys, but I prefer them simple, without a slew of toppings and ingredients. I’ve refined my taste to favor the savory, spicy, and salty elements, though I’m still deciding on the perfect vodka.
In my quest for expert advice and a solid starting point for experimentation, I consulted several mixology experts. Surprisingly, they all recommended the same brand.
Insights from Bartenders:
- Garret Dostal: Mixologist at Bar 135
- H. Joseph Ehrmann: Owner of Elixir and mixologist at Fresh Victor Cocktail Mixers
- Ricky Morrison: Bar manager at The Roxy in Jersey City, NJ
- Hannah Chamberlain: Founder of Spirited LA and author of How to Be a Better Drinker
- Willa Van Nostrand: Owner and mixologist of Little Bitte Artisanal Catering
- Ashley Rose Conway: Owner of Craft & Cocktails and author of Celebrate Rosé
Preferred Vodka for Bloody Marys as Recommended by Bartenders
Dostal believes the choice of vodka is vital for a bloody Mary, describing it as the cocktail’s backbone. These experts unanimously chose Broken Shed for its whey-based smoothness, making it an ideal base for bloody Marys.
They prefer Broken Shed because it offers balance, body, and a creamy texture that other vodkas often lack. According to Dostal, this brand enhances the overall cocktail experience, allowing the tomato juice and spices to blend seamlessly with the vodka’s unique traits and adding depth to a sometimes overlooked component of the drink.
Ehrmann describes its flavor as “crisp and lively, enhancing the savory notes of the cocktail,” noting that Broken Shed has all these qualities and more. He highlights its exceptional distillation and noticeable minerality.
The simplicity of Broken Shed, which contains only spring water, mineral water, and whey, is what makes it stand out. It’s a clean and straightforward vodka from New Zealand, free of additives and GMOs, making it a top pick among professionals despite its relatively recent introduction to the market.
Morrison praises the importance of using high-quality ingredients in a bloody Mary, which is why he exclusively uses Broken Shed vodka, describing it as creating “the most refreshing bloody Mary you’ll ever have.”
Top Vodka Choices for Bloody Marys, According to Industry Experts
While Broken Shed is priced at $35.99 per 750ml bottle, it is relatively affordable compared to some other brands. Chamberlain mentions Tito’s as a widely available, neutral vodka that pairs well with a quality bloody Mary mix.
Priced at $24.99 per 750ml bottle, Tito’s is equally popular as Grey Goose in many bars, according to Conway and Van Nostrand. Chamberlain supports Ehrmann’s view, recommending a vodka that enhances the drink’s flavors.
Chamberlain advises choosing a vodka that lets the cocktail’s ingredients shine, recommending one that has a good texture and avoids any harsh aftertaste, allowing the other flavors to enhance the drinking experience.
To learn more about our approach to product recommendations, see HERE.
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Riley Morgan simplifies health and wellness topics, providing readers with practical advice and insights. Dedicated to empowering others, Riley covers everything from mental health to medical breakthroughs.