The Bottom Line
Pros
- Organic corn vodka produced in Minnesota.
- The entire production process is certified organic and kosher.
- Rich and creamy vodka with a smooth finish
- Great for any eco-friendly cocktail.
Cons
- Currently only available in limited markets.
Description
- Organic vodka distilled from corn grown in Minnesota near the distillery.
- Produced by Ed Phillips and Sons Co. of Phillips, Minnesota
- Retails for around $24.99/750 ml bottle
- Released in May, 2008
- 40% alc/vol (80 proof)
- Gold Medal winner at the 2008 Los Angeles International Wine & Spirit Awards
Guide Review - Prairie Organic Vodka
How green is Prairie? The entire production process has been certified organic by the USDA and kosher by the Orthodox Union. This means that the corn is free of chemicals, is not grown from genetically modified seed and the farmers do not use artificial fertilizers. The co-op of farmers behind Prairie are also stakeholders in the company so we can be assured that they want the company to succeed and live up to the standards set for it.
Beyond the fields, the distillation process is designed to be as “green” and clean as possible. The kosher certification requires all equipment to be sterilized in between batches to ensure purity. Any biomass waste from the corn and other material is converted to energy to run the stills and the distillers dried grains are used as feed on the farms from which the corn originated. Into the bottling, the glass is recycled and unfrosted and the bottles are packed in cardboard from sustainable wood pulp. Using locally grown grains also cuts the fuel costs of production. So yes, Prairie organic is pretty green.
What about the spirit? It is pretty good and equal to its other premium, organic counterparts. This vodka is really lush, almost creamy and rich with a clean, corn flavor. Prairie is a great organic that works well in almost any vodka cocktail. In fact, its profile adds more depth to the drinks than many other vodkas. Enjoy it with fresh ingredients and, just so you don’t ruin all the eco-work that has gone into this spirit, be sure to be as eco-friendly a bartender as you can be.
Tasting Notes:
The aroma is that of sweet melon with pale grain notes that take the forefront. The palate is exceptionally velvety and luscious with very warm tones, which are almost buttery. The finish is a long, smooth segue to the next sip with cracks of burnt corn.




