SINTAX VODKA - 1L, Chicago

Tried it neat first to see what the fuss was about, and the charcoal filtering really does make a difference—it's noticeably cleaner than the usual stuff at this price point. For a craft vodka under thirty bucks, the smoothness surprised me.

Poured it over a whiskey stone and the smoothness really came through — no harsh burn at all. For a local Chicago vodka under $30, the charcoal filtering makes a noticeable difference.

I was skeptical about paying this much for a local bottle, but the charcoal filtering really does make a difference—it's noticeably cleaner on the palate than most vodkas in its price range. Perfect for a martini without any harsh bite.