Heritage & Distillery
Mousehall Distillery in East Sussex has established itself as a producer of considerable quality, and this citrus vodka demonstrates the distillery's understanding of how to integrate botanical flavours into a spirit base without overwhelming or unbalancing it. The key distinction from many flavoured vodkas is the method: the spirit is partly distilled with fresh citrus rather than having flavouring added post-distillation, a process that extracts the aromatic oils during distillation and creates a more integrated, natural citrus character.
Production
The vodka undergoes three distillations, with fresh citrus introduced during the final distillation to allow the aromatic oils to vaporise and integrate with the spirit. This co-distillation method produces a more nuanced citrus character than maceration or post-distillation flavouring, as the heat of distillation transforms the raw citrus oils into softer, more complex compounds. Bottling at 43% ABV ensures that the citrus character is presented with sufficient alcoholic support.
Tasting Notes
The nose presents fresh lemon peel, candied citrus, and a creamy grain base with a subtle floral lift. On the palate, the vodka is creamy and citrus-forward, with candied lemon peel, gentle lime, a smooth grain base, and a touch of sweet vanilla. The 43% ABV provides excellent body — this is a more substantial spirit than many flavoured vodkas, and the citrus character is well-integrated rather than sitting on top. The finish is medium-long, clean and citrus with gentle warmth and a creamy, lemon-custard close.
The Serve
The citrus integration makes this an excellent Lemon Drop Martini vodka — the built-in citrus character reduces the need for additional lemon juice. It also works beautifully in a Vesper-style cocktail or simply over ice with tonic and a twist of lemon.
Verdict
Mousehall Fresh Citrus is a well-made flavoured vodka that benefits from its co-distillation method — the citrus character is integrated and natural rather than applied and artificial. The higher ABV adds substance, and the overall quality justifies the premium price. A recommended choice for citrus cocktail enthusiasts.
