Magadanskaya Vodka
by F. Sot Fitzgerald

As a kid, I recall hearing that Russians made vodka. As I grew older I picked up from God knows who that the BEST vodka comes from Russia. Yet, in recent years I've tasted a number of Polish vodkas and have found them to be terrific. As for Russians- sure, Stoli and Stoli Vanil are grand, but I had to wonder if the real action was in Poland. Forget Russia- their day has passed.

Whoops- Magadanskaya, or Maggy, has made me rethink that notion. Maggy is, perhaps, the best vodka I have ever tasted. Oh yes, it is smooth, no doubt. But taste- here's where Maggy soars. It's a little nutty, a little sweet, and actually smells of violets. After sitting in the freezer a half day it is incredibly viscous, giving it a wonderful mouthfeel that leaves you masticating.

Maggy vodka is quadruple distilled and filtered nine times.

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I don't do this often, but I feel obliged: Maggy receives a perfect rating. I can find absolutely nothing wrong with it and so much right with it. (Rating *****)

Maggy is made in Magadan, Russia and comes to the U.S. via West Import & Export Co., LLC of Gig Harbor, Washington. As of summer 2002, Maggy is distributed in Alaska (Odom Corporation), California (Frank-Lin Beverage Group) and Georgia (Savannah Distributors). Retail buyers can special order Maggy in Washington. For more information on Maggy Vodka, contact Sylvia Scherer at info@maggyvodka.com

Reviewed 10/31/01