GO3 Vodka takes the top spot at this year’s USA Spirits Ratings

Vodka, despite being the most consumed spirit category in the United States, often suffers from misconceptions. Many casual drinkers believe it’s produced from potatoes, when in fact it can be distilled from any base ingredient that can ferment. Many aficionados argue that it’s devoid of any flavor due to its nature as a neutral grain spirit. Yet, in 2021, the federal labeling authority removed the restriction stating that it must be distilled “without distinctive taste”.

In truth, there are interesting trends happening in the craft vodka sector. However, not all craft vodka is created equally. This is evident from the results of various judgings throughout the year. Certain brands and variations consistently do well, appearing on shortlists time and time again, thus distinguishing themselves in a significantly crowded field. These brands must be doing something different and of course, doing it well.

The brand GO3, a craft vodka produced in the heart of Houston, Texas is testament to this. Barely a year old, this brand has already clinched the title for Vodka of the Year at the 2023 USA Spirits Ratings. With a score of 98 out of 100 points, there was only one other product across all categories with a higher score.

How did this $30 premium product achieve such a stunning accolade? Well, in vodka production, one of the easiest ways to find greatness is to start with great ingredients. In the case of GO3, this list includes a proprietary mix of Texas sweet corn, sweet potatoes, and russet potatoes. The finished distillate is proofed down with pure glacial melt from the Teton Mountains.

Then there are the essential elements of distillation, rectification, and resting the liquor to come away with crisp flavor characteristics and pleasing mouthfeels. GO3 attains a full body, brimming with butteriness and even a hint of butterscotch in its lengthy finish. For anyone out there still pigeonholing vodka as a flavorless, odorless offering, a compelling counterpoint is served in each pour of this 80-proof sipping spirit. And yes, you can enjoy it solo—neat, or on the rocks.

There’s also an inspirational story beyond the liquid, itself. It was started by a group of friends and entrepreneurs who wanted to use the spirit as a means to enhance their community. The name “GO3” refers to General Orders Number 3, the declaration read in Texas on June 19, 1865, formally ending the institution of slavery—a historic moment now commemorated by the Juneteenth national holiday. In service of such, the founders of the brand have committed to donating a percentage of all sales to historically Black colleges and universities. Their stated mission is to support freedom, equality, education and economic freedom.

GO3 even sports the tagline, “Independence never tasted so good.” Now the brand is amassing the medals to prove it.

TOPSHOT – A man sleds down a snow covered hill in Houston, Texas on February 15, 2021. – Much of the United States was in the icy grip of an “unprecedented” winter storm on February 15 as frigid Arctic air sent temperatures plunging, forcing hundreds of flight cancellations, making driving hazardous and leaving millions without power in Texas. Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced that the White House has issued a Federal Emergency Declaration for Texas in response to severe winter weather across the state. (Photo by Mark Felix / AFP) (Photo by MARK FELIX/AFP /AFP via Getty Images)