Ciroc French Vanilla Vodka (75cl, 35%)

A French vodka from Cîroc, distilled five times from fine French grapes in an eau de vie style rather than from grain or potato. French vanilla describes a flavour style rather than an origin, referring to the rich custard base traditionally used in French ice cream making. The custard sweetness of French vanilla sits on the lighter grape base without the cloying weight it can carry on a heavier neutral grain. It is bottled at 35% ABV, which is 70 proof, in a 750ml bottle. Product of France. The nose shows warm vanilla bean and soft cream, with a hint of caramel behind. The palate is rounded and smooth, with custard sweetness and gentle sugar kept light by the grape base. The finish is clean and creamy, with lingering vanilla rather than sticky sweetness.