Heritage & Distillery
Discarded Spirits Co., a subsidiary of William Grant and Sons, has built its brand identity around the concept of upcycling — using ingredients that would otherwise be discarded to create spirits of genuine quality and character. This Chardonnay vodka is made from pomace — the skins, stems, and seeds of Chardonnay grapes that remain after the winemaking process — an ingredient that would typically be composted or discarded entirely.
The environmental credentials are genuinely commendable: by repurposing winemaking byproduct, Discarded reduces waste while creating a spirit that carries some of the aromatic character of its grape origins. The concept is executed with the production expertise one would expect from a William Grant subsidiary, ensuring that the sustainability message is backed by quality of liquid.
Tasting Notes
The nose is clean and fruity — white grape, green apple, subtle floral notes, and a fresh mineral quality that hints at the Chardonnay provenance. On the palate, the vodka is smooth and fruity with white grape character, green apple crispness, delicate stone fruit, and a gentle, wine-like roundness that distinguishes it from grain-based competitors. The finish is medium with lingering grape fruit, gentle sweetness, and a clean, dry close.
Verdict
At seven out of ten, Discarded Grape Skin Chardonnay Vodka is a creditable example of sustainable spirits production that delivers a genuinely interesting drinking experience. The grape character is subtle but present, and the environmental story is backed by quality of execution. At under thirty pounds, it represents fair value for a spirit with both character and conscience.
