Heritage & Distillery
Arbikie's strawberry vodka represents one of the more ambitious entries in the flavoured vodka category — a spirit that begins with the distillery's acclaimed three-potato vodka base and adds sustainably sourced strawberries before bottling at a generous 50% ABV. The higher bottling strength is not mere excess but a considered choice that allows the strawberry flavour to be presented with an intensity and richness that lower-ABV competitors cannot match. Arbikie's farm-to-bottle philosophy ensures that every element of the production — from the potato cultivation to the strawberry sourcing — reflects a commitment to quality and sustainability.
Production
The base vodka is triple-distilled from three varieties of potato grown on the Arbikie estate, creating a spirit of considerable richness and depth. Sustainably sourced strawberries are then macerated in the spirit, contributing natural sweetness, fruit character, and a luscious texture. The bottling at 50% ABV ensures that the strawberry flavour is presented at full intensity, with the alcoholic strength providing the structural support necessary to carry the fruit's natural sweetness without the addition of sugar or artificial flavourings.
Tasting Notes
The nose is intensely fruity — ripe strawberry dominates, accompanied by butterscotch, a hint of fresh cream, and the earthy potato base visible beneath the fruit. On the palate, the vodka is luscious and rich, with natural strawberry sweetness, butterscotch, fudge, and a warming potato base. The 50% ABV carries the flavours with impressive intensity, and the overall impression is of a spirit with real depth and substance. The finish is long and warming, with lingering strawberry, caramel, and a clean peppery heat.
The Serve
The higher ABV makes this an excellent cocktail base — it holds its strawberry character when diluted with ice, mixers, or other ingredients. Try it in a Strawberry Daiquiri variation, a Wimbledon-inspired serve with lemonade and fresh mint, or simply over ice with a splash of cream for an indulgent sipper.
Verdict
Arbikie Strawberry Vodka is a flavoured spirit of genuine quality and ambition. The potato base provides depth that grain-based competitors lack, the strawberry flavour is natural and intense, and the 50% ABV ensures that the spirit delivers on its promise with conviction. One of the finest flavoured vodkas in this publication's portfolio.
