Vodka Tasting Toronto And Ontario – In Person or Virtual

Looking for an exceptional vodka tasting experience? Look no further. Our tastings are crafted to expand your palate, provide enjoyment, and offer new discoveries.

We offer tasting events for both groups and individuals. Whether you prefer a self-guided approach or desire the expertise of a bartender, we have options to suit your preferences.

Join us at our licensed tasting location, 180 Drinks, or enjoy the convenience of our mobile service. For those unable to attend in person or seeking virtual convenience, we also offer virtual vodka tasting events.

Vodka is truly a global spirit. There are many ways to enjoy this drink – neat or in a classic cocktail. Our tasting experiences are designed to help you understand the history of this drink, the production process, and learn about some of the best ways to sip this drink. Our vodka experiences are led by a master mixologist who knows everything there is about this beloved drink.

What We Cover During Our Vodka Classes

Get ready to immerse yourself in a captivating vodka tasting experience! Our crafted vodka classes are designed for the beginner to the avid vodka enthusiast. Anyone who loves to understand more about this unique drink is welcome!

Vodka Appearance

Vodka typically presents itself as a clear and colourless liquid. That said there are sometimes additives that may alter the colour. For example, one of the most famous examples is ลปubrรณwka, a polish vodka based on bison grass. This grass gives the liquor a typical yellow colour.

We suggest that vodka is best sampled in natural daylight against a white background to enable you to assess the colour of the vodka. The clarity of vodka is also an important characteristic, indicating its purity and filtration process.

Vodka Tasting Experience
Vodka Class

Vodka Aroma

Unlike other spirits, vodka’s aroma is more subtle. Often it lacks strong and distinct aromas when compared with other spirits such as gin, whisky, or tequila. As a result vodka is more challenging to detect aromas.

The aroma exhibited from the vodka may depend on the type of raw materials used in its production process. Below are some examples of raw ingredients and their common aromas.

  • Wheat – Citrus, aniseed, and pepper aromas.
  • Rye – Grain and spicy aromas.
  • Grape – Fruity and floral aromas.

The vodkas we select for your tasting incorporate a variety of unique aromaโ€™s, and you will learn how to describe their aromaโ€™s.

Vodka Taste

Vodka is renowned for its clean, crisp, and smooth taste. The primary taste of vodka is shaped by its base ingredients, which can range from grains like wheat, rye, or corn to potatoes or even fruits like grapes.

Body, essentially, is how the vodka feels in your mouth, almost regardless of flavour. You can also use the words โ€œweightโ€ or โ€œmouthfeelโ€ in this context, as it is literally how heavy or light the vodka feels in your mouth.

Below are some examples of raw ingredients and their common taste and mouthfeel.

  • Barley – lighter mouthfeel and more sour taste.
  • Rye – Nutty sweetness and spicy taste.
  • Maize – Buttery mouthfeel.

To help maximise vodka flavour expression you want to take enough of it into your mouth to cover your tongue. Roll it around in your mouth, coating as many sensory areas as possible for about five seconds, then swallow.

You will learn how to describe the taste of vodka!

Vodka Tasting
Vodka Experience

Vodka Knowledge

During the vodka tasting experience, we try to provide you with as much background of the drink as possible. Exploring a drink with an understanding of its heritage and history will enhance the vodka tasting Toronto experience. Here’s an overview of each topic we explore during the tour:

Production Methods: Vodka production starts with the selection of high-quality ingredients, such as grains, potatoes, or fruits, which are then fermented to convert their starches into alcohol.

The resulting liquid, known as the wash, undergoes distillation to separate the alcohol from impurities. Multiple distillations may be performed to achieve a purer and smoother spirit. After distillation, the vodka is typically filtered through activated charcoal or other materials to further refine its taste and remove any remaining impurities. Finally, the vodka is diluted with water to reach the desired alcohol content before being bottled and ready for consumption.

History: Vodka has a rich history that spans centuries. It is believed to have originated in Eastern Europe, with early mentions dating back to the 9th century. Initially used for medicinal purposes, vodka evolved into a popular spirit enjoyed for its unique qualities.

Use In Cocktails: We know that vodka is often drunk neat, but it is also a hugely popular liquor in cocktails. Its clean and smooth character allows it to enhance the flavours of fruits, juices, herbs, and other spirits, making it a popular choice for classic cocktails like the Martini, Cosmopolitan, and Bloody Mary, as well as countless modern mixology creations.

By the end of the vodka tour, you will have acquired a solid foundation in vodka tasting terminology and a comprehensive perspective on the world of vodka.

In Person And Virtual Vodka Tasting Formats

Vodka Tasting Kit

Self Guided

Looking to savour the delights of vodka at your leisure? Look no further. We provide self-guided vodka tasting experiences tailored to your preferences.

Our comprehensive vodka tasting kit includes:

Carefully curated samples of exceptional vodkas.
A detailed guide on proper tasting techniques, essential knowledge, and a profile of each vodka, including tasting notes.
Optional tasting glass and suggested food pairings to enhance your experience.

Discover the world of vodka on your terms. Click the link below for more information on our self-guided vodka tasting kits.

Shop Vodka Tasting Kit

In Person Vodka Master Class

Prepare yourself for a fun adventure into the world of vodka tasting! Join our exclusive in-person master class led by a knowledgeable vodka expert who will immerse you in a captivating experience.

During our in-person vodka tasting Toronto master class, you can expect:

  • A curated selection of premium vodkas, carefully chosen to showcase a range of flavours and styles.
  • Expert guidance from our vodka connoisseur, who will share in-depth knowledge and fascinating insights about each vodka.
  • An interactive and engaging session that explores the history, production methods, and distinguishing characteristics of different vodkas.
  • Opportunities to refine your palate and discover your preferences through guided tastings and discussions.

Elevate your vodka tasting experience with us and unravel the secrets of this beloved spirit.

Additionally, we also offer:

  1. Vodka Tasting Glass Rental: Enhance your tasting experience with the use of crystal tasting glasses, designed to capture the aromas and flavours of vodka. The glasses are available for rental, and you also have the option to purchase them.
  2. Bottle of Water: We provide a bottle of water to cleanse your palate between tastings.
  3. Optional Chocolate Tasting and Snack Pairings: Elevate your vodka tasting experience by adding optional dark chocolate tasting.
  4. Optional Table Rentals: If you require additional seating or table space for your tasting event, we offer optional table rentals to accommodate your needs.

Get in touch with us today to receive a personalised quote and start planning your vodka tasting master class.

Vodka Tasting Party
Virtual Vodka Tasting

Virtual Vodka Tasting or Hybrid (In-Person & Online Vodka Tasting)

Our online vodka course is your passport to a shared tasting experience, no matter where you are in the world. It’s the perfect solution for those outside the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) seeking an immersive and cost-effective alternative.

But wait, there’s more! We’ve also crafted a hybrid vodka tasting event, blending the best of in-person and virtual worlds. It’s the ultimate choice for teams working both in the office and remotely, ensuring everyone can partake in the fun.

Join us virtually and indulge in a wide array of vodka options, just like our in-person tastings (with a few exceptions). Although virtual participants won’t have the Glencairn glass rental, they can still purchase these specialised glasses to enhance their online vodka course.

We’ve made it easy for you too! Virtual vodka tasting kits can be picked up at our head office or conveniently shipped directly to your guests. These kits contain everything you need for an unforgettable vodka tasting journey.

Contact us now to explore the world of vodka and create lasting memories with our exceptional virtual vodka tasting adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

faq What is the traditional way to drink vodka?

Well, traditionally, vodka is drunk neat! Either sipped or downed as a shot!

When drinking high-quality vodkas, we recommend that you sip it slowly, as you are able to better appreciate the spirit.

You could also have vodka in cocktails. Some of the most iconic vodka-based cocktails include the Screwdriver, Cosmopolitan, and Bloody Mary.

faq How should I store my vodka before the vodka tasting event?

To ensure the best quality and taste of your vodka before the tasting event, it is important to store it properly. We suggest these steps for vodka storage:

  1. Temperature: Vodka should be stored at a consistent temperature between 15-20ยฐC (59-68ยฐF). Avoid exposing it to extreme heat or cold, as it can affect the flavour and texture.
  2. Light: Keep vodka away from direct sunlight or strong artificial light, as it can degrade the quality and alter the taste over time.
  3. Air Exposure: Seal the bottle tightly after each use to minimise air exposure. Oxygen can gradually oxidise the vodka, potentially altering its flavour.
  4. Upright Position: Store vodka bottles in an upright position to prevent the alcohol from coming into prolonged contact with the bottle’s cap, which can lead to potential spoilage or degradation.

By following these storage guidelines, you can maintain the integrity and quality of your vodka, ensuring a delightful tasting experience.

faq Can I do vodka classes at 180 Drinks?

Absolutely! We are licensed for up to 25 guests at our location: 400 Matheson Blvd E Unit 20, Mississauga, ON L4Z 1N8

If your guest count is greater than 25 guests we can also travel to your location in Ontario. Please see which areas we serve below.

faq Do you offer a vodka tasting bar for events?

Absolutely! This is a great option for a more high-level vodka tasting event. Our vodka tasting bars are tailored to your service to your requirements and budget.

Get in touch today for a quote on a vodka-tasting bar for your next corporate event, party, or wedding!

faq Do you do non-alcoholic vodka tastings?

We understand that some individuals prefer non-alcoholic options. We are delighted to offer a non-alcoholic spirit tasting experience for those who wish to enjoy the flavours and aromas of spirits without consuming alcohol. Cheers to you!

faq What platform do you use for your virtual vodka tastings?

We realise that different customers have different platforms they prefer to use. At 180 Drinks we are platform agnostic, so for your virtual vodka tasting event we can provide the virtual platform or we can adapt to use your own platform. For example if you prefer to do a Zoom whiskey tasting we can accommodate this. Other platforms commonly used are Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, or Webex.

faq What areas do you serve in Ontario for your vodka classes?

For virtual vodka tasting experiences, we serve all of Ontario.

For in-person private vodka tasting Toronto and Ontario experiences at your location, we serve the following cities:

  • Ajax
  • Aurora
  • Barrie
  • Brampton
  • Brant
  • Brantford
  • Burlington
  • Caledon
  • Cambridge
  • Fort Erie
  • Grimsby
  • Guelph
  • Halton Hills
  • Hamilton
  • Ingersoll
  • King City
  • Kitchener
  • Lincoln
  • London
  • Markham
  • Milton
  • Mississauga
  • Newmarket
  • Niagara Falls
  • Niagara-on-the-Lake
  • Oakville
  • Oshawa
  • Pelham
  • Pickering
  • Port Colborne
  • Richmond Hill
  • Schomberg
  • Catharines
  • Stratford
  • Thorold
  • Toronto (Downtown Core, East End, East York, Etobicoke, GTA, North York, North End, Old Toronto, Scarborough, West End, and York)
  • Vaughan
  • Waterloo
  • Stratford
  • Welland
  • Whitby
  • Woodbridge
  • Woodstock

Get in touch today for your next in person or virtual vodka tasting Toronto event!

Request a Quote

  • If available please let us know guest count, event date(s), preferred start time, target budget per guest, event location (if in-person), virtual participant locations (if outside Ontario), and occasion.

  • If available please let us know guest count, event date(s), preferred start time, target budget per guest, event location (if in-person), virtual participant locations (if outside Ontario), and occasion.

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