Heritage & Distillery
The Spirit of One takes an approach that deliberately blurs the boundary between vodka and gin — its signature botanical, fresh sage, is infused into the spirit alongside citrus zest and vanilla, creating a vodka of considerable aromatic complexity. The category of "botanical vodka" has grown significantly in recent years, appealing to consumers who find standard vodka too neutral but gin too juniper-forward, and One positions itself squarely in that space with a product that offers genuine character without overwhelming the palate.
Production
A clean grain spirit base is triple-distilled before being infused with fresh sage — the defining botanical — along with citrus zest and vanilla. The sage is the spirit's most distinctive element, contributing a herbal, slightly camphoraceous quality that is more commonly associated with Mediterranean cuisine than with vodka production. The balance is carefully managed to ensure that the botanicals enhance rather than dominate the spirit, and the charcoal filtration that follows preserves the aromatic character while smoothing any rough edges.
Tasting Notes
The nose is immediately aromatic — fresh sage, citrus zest, vanilla, and subtle herbal notes sit atop a clean grain backbone. On the palate, the vodka is aromatic and smooth, with sage providing the primary flavour, complemented by lemon peel, gentle vanilla sweetness, and a herbal complexity that develops across the palate. The balance is well-judged — the botanicals are present and interesting without overwhelming the vodka character. The finish is medium, with lingering sage and citrus, a touch of white pepper, and a clean herbal close.
The Serve
The botanical character makes this vodka particularly versatile — it works beautifully in a sage-garnished Vodka & Tonic, in a Breakfast Martini where the citrus notes complement the marmalade, or simply over ice with a Mediterranean tonic. The sage also pairs well with autumn flavours: try it in a cocktail with apple juice and honey.
Verdict
One Botanical Vodka succeeds in its aim of providing a vodka with genuine aromatic character. The sage-led profile is distinctive and well-handled, and the overall quality is good for the price. A recommended choice for those who enjoy flavourful spirits but find gin too assertive.
