Levi KeswickKey takeaways:
- Tito’s vodka, despite its relative youth in the spirits world, has taken the U.S market by storm, dislodging Smirnoff from its top position.
- The production process, ingredients, and craftsmanship contribute to Tito’s unique flavor profile.
- Tito’s alcohol content, being 40% or 80 proof, is on par with standard vodka offerings.
- Tito’s popularity is driven by the perception of quality and value for money, bolstered by strategic marketing efforts.
Tito’s: The Emergence of a Vodka Behemoth
In the crowded market of distilled spirits, Tito’s Handmade Vodka has carved out a considerable niche for itself. As an American-made vodka, it’s a relatively new player in a game dominated by Russian and Polish stalwarts. Despite its late entry, Tito’s managed to unseat Smirnoff as the top-selling spirit in the U.S. in 2019. The brand owes much of its success to its founder, Bert “Tito” Beveridge, who started from humble beginnings in the mid-90s, and now sits among America’s richest people.
Tito’s Production: A Labor of Love
While pondering over what percentage alcohol is Tito’s, one can’t ignore the process involved in its making. Tito’s is made with corn and distilled six times, resulting in a spirit that measures at 40% alcohol by volume, or 80 proof, aligning it with industry standards. Its ‘handmade’ claim refers to the use of old-fashioned pot stills, a labor-intensive process typically used for rum or whiskey production, which adds a layer of artisanal allure to the brand.
Flavor: The Tito’s Sensation
When it comes to vodka, flavor is paramount, and Tito’s does not disappoint. With notes of brined canned corn, salt, sweetness, and butter, Tito’s offers a unique taste that separates it from traditional vodka brands. This distinctive flavor profile, coupled with its high-quality production process, contributes to the brand’s appeal and its continued popularity.
Cocktails: Tito’s Versatility Shines
One of the major strengths of Tito’s is its adaptability in cocktails. Whether in an extra dirty Martini or more innovative concoctions like the Shiso Rona – which combines Tito’s with lemon and lime juices, pink peppercorn syrup, and cucumber bitters – Tito’s showcases its versatility. Its ability to mingle harmoniously with various ingredients and deliver consistently pleasing results in cocktails has helped establish its stronghold in the vodka market.
The Professional Perspective
Professionals in the spirits and hospitality industry agree that Tito’s offers exceptional value. Recognized as a quality vodka suitable for sipping, mixing, and infusing, Tito’s has won favor among many bartenders and beverage directors. Its dominance is such that an estimated 90% of vodka drinks in some establishments are made with Tito’s.
Tito’s vs. Smirnoff: A Shift in Preference
Smirnoff, a long-time player in the vodka game, deserves credit for its historical significance and continuous innovation. Its range of flavored vodkas and the famous Smirnoff No. 21 remain popular among consumers. However, when it comes to modern bar and restaurant orders, Tito’s appears to have taken the lead.
Conclusion: The Success Story of Tito’s
So, when someone asks you, “what percentage alcohol is Tito’s?” – you now know the answer is 40%. But, Tito’s is so much more than just its alcohol content. The brand’s rapid rise to success and its ability to offer a unique and well-crafted product is a testament to the changing tastes of vodka consumers. With its distinctive flavor profile and a winning blend of quality and value, Tito’s Handmade Vodka has well and truly earned its place at the top of the vodka world.
