Best Vodka for Espresso Martini

Choosing the perfect vodka for your espresso martini can be a daunting a task. You don't want to cheap out too much to make it taste terrible but you don't want to break the bank with Russian Standard when it's just a mixed cocktail...Or do you?

We tend to believe the higher-end does truly does make a difference in the quality. But there is a certain limit where it doesn't make quite the difference that it does at the lower levels.

So What is The Best Vodka for an Espresso Martini?

With years of experience making espresso martinis we have one clear winner with several other close runner ups. Our number one choice is Chopin Family Reserve.

Chopin Family Reserve Vodka

Chopin Family Reserve is generally on the higher end of premium vodkas, but deservedly so. There is a certain smoothness and elegance the flavor that meshes well with an espresso martini. Not normally sold at traditional liquor stores but we've found a proper distributor in the US.

Belvedere Vodka

Belvedere Vodka, named after an architectural structure suited to take advantage of a fine or scenic view, is our favorite of the luxury vodkas. The bottle is not only gorgeous but the flavor profile is neither too harsh or soft. Making it the perfect accompanying vodka for your upcoming espresso martini.

Price : 42-50$$

Grey Goose Vodka

Our other favorite vodka, Grey Goose, is a close second to Belvedere. Grey Goose vodka may be more popular for the club scene...as people love to flex Grey Goose. Made in France unlike most Russian made vodkas, this premium vodka not only looks great but is a smooth vodka as well. Grey Goose is a terrific option for a perfect espresso martini.

Price : 40-60$

Tito's Vodka

Tito's Vodka is a step down from the premium options but is definitely the best bang for your buck. You may lose out a touch on flavor, but it's at a reasonable price. We also like that Tito's is made in America, which is extremely uncommon. Although becoming less so as time goes on. Tito's is one of the best vodkas currently available.

Price : 30-40$

Can you Use Flavored Vodkas for Espresso Martinis?

We highly recommend that you stay far away from flavored vodkas when making an espresso martini. Often times these vodkas are overly sweet, and completely clash with the other ingredients in the cocktail shaker or the coffee liqueur. In fact, there is not a single flavored vodka that we would advocate for, unless you're a college freshman. But we have been proven wrong before, maybe there is a cocktail that would be better with it.

Ready to Make an Espresso Martini?

We have put together detailed recipes on how to make an Espresso martini with and without espresso....Yes it is possible! So get those three coffee beans, a martini glass, hot espresso and Belvedere vodka ready. If you use too much vodka though, it stops being an espresso martini and becomes just a vodka martini.

Can I use Other Liquors Besides Vodka in an Espresso Martini?

The short answer is no, no you can not. BUT WHY??? Well the answer is actually quite simple. Ready? Every other alcohol just tastes bad when mixed with the coffee flavors. The only one you may be able to get away with, is Bourbon. Bourbon and coffee liqueur mixed together becomes an Irish coffee...and thats not quite the drink we are trying to make.

The espresso flavor and simple syrup are what is key for this drink. So get your cocktail shaker and coffee liqueur ready and get to work.