Ketel One vs Tito’s

Vodka is one of the most popular spirits in the world, and two of the most well-known brands are Ketel One and Tito’s.

Both vodkas have a loyal following, but which one is better? In this article, we will compare Ketel One and Tito’s in terms of their origins and history, distillation process, ingredients and quality, and flavor profiles.

Ketel One vodka was first made in the Netherlands in the 17th century by the Nolet family. It is currently run by the family’s 11th generation, who continue to use the original coal-fired copper still, Distilleerketel #1, to distill the vodka. Tito’s, on the other hand, was founded in the United States in the 1990s by Tito Beveridge. The vodka is made from corn and is distilled six times.

When it comes to the distillation process, Ketel One uses a combination of pot and column stills, while Tito’s is pot distilled. Both vodkas are distilled multiple times, resulting in a clean and pure taste. In terms of ingredients and quality, Ketel One is made from wheat, giving it a unique flavor profile, while Tito’s is made from corn, making it gluten-free. Both vodkas are of high quality and are popular among vodka enthusiasts.

Origins and History

The Story of Ketel One

Ketel One vodka has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. It was created by the Nolet family in the Netherlands, who have been distilling spirits for 11 generations. The name Ketel One comes from the original coal-fired copper still used to distill the vodka, Distilleerketel #1.

The Nolet family has always been committed to producing high-quality spirits, and this is evident in every bottle of Ketel One. The vodka is made from 100% wheat and is distilled in copper pot stills. The distillation process is done in small batches, ensuring that each bottle of Ketel One is of the highest quality.

The Journey of Tito’s

Tito’s Handmade Vodka, on the other hand, has a much more recent history. It was created by Tito Beveridge in Austin, Texas, in the mid-1990s. He started out by making small batches of vodka for his friends and family, using a homemade still he built himself.

Tito’s Handmade Vodka is made from 100% corn and is distilled in pot stills. It is also gluten-free, which has made it a popular choice among people with gluten sensitivities. The vodka has won numerous awards for its quality and taste, and it is now one of the best-selling vodkas in the United States.

Both Ketel One and Tito’s Handmade Vodka are known for their commitment to quality and their unique flavor profiles. While Ketel One has a long history and is made in the Netherlands, Tito’s Handmade Vodka is a newer brand that is made in Austin, Texas. Despite their differences, both vodkas are popular choices among consumers who appreciate high-quality spirits.

Distillation Process

Ketel One’s Distillation

Ketel One Vodka is distilled using copper pot stills, which are traditional stills that have been used for centuries. The copper pot stills are used to produce a smooth and refined vodka. The distillation process involves the use of wheat, which is distilled in small batches. The wheat is mashed and then fermented, which produces a mash that is then distilled in copper pot stills. The distillation process is done slowly and carefully to ensure that the vodka is of the highest quality.

Tito’s Distilling Technique

Tito’s Handmade Vodka uses an old-fashioned pot still, which is made of copper. The distilling process involves the use of corn, which is mashed and then fermented. The mash is then distilled in the copper pot still, which produces a smooth and flavorful vodka. The distilling process is done in small batches, which ensures that the vodka is of the highest quality.

Both Ketel One and Tito’s use copper pot stills in their distillation process, which is a traditional method that has been used for centuries. However, Ketel One uses wheat in their mash, while Tito’s uses corn. The use of different grains can affect the flavor and texture of the vodka. Additionally, Ketel One’s distillation process involves distilling in small batches, while Tito’s uses an old-fashioned pot still. These differences in technique can also affect the flavor and texture of the vodka.

Flavor Profiles

Taste of Ketel One

Ketel One vodka is known for its unique flavor profile, which is derived from its main ingredient of wheat. It has a smooth, crisp taste with a subtle sweetness and a hint of citrus. The wheat also gives Ketel One a slightly nutty flavor that sets it apart from other vodkas.

Ketel One is distilled multiple times to create a clean and pure taste. It is also filtered through charcoal to remove any impurities, resulting in a smooth finish. The brand offers a range of flavored vodkas, including Citroen, Oranje, and Grapefruit, which are infused with natural flavors to enhance the taste.

Flavor of Tito’s

Tito’s vodka is made from high-quality yellow corn, which gives it a distinct flavor profile. It has a smooth, clean taste with a subtle sweetness and a hint of honey. Tito’s is also known for its black pepper spice, which adds a unique kick to the flavor.

Tito’s is distilled six times to create a pure and smooth taste. It is also gluten-free, making it a popular choice for those with gluten sensitivities. While Tito’s does not produce any flavored vodkas, the brand offers a range of mixers and garnishes to enhance the flavor.