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Reyka Vodka May Have the Coolest Distiller on the Planet

Jahla Seppanen

Reyka Vodka is the most beautiful, and most bizarre distillery we’ve ever seen. And we’ve gandered some insane distilleries in our day. Reyka is known around the world for its unique distilling process, using water drawn from lava fields and volcanic filtration over traditional charcoal. It would seem this award-winning vodka that is sold around the globe would come from a massive distillery with expert engineers and distillers working around the clock. Instead, for the past 15 years, it’s been a one-man operation from the pastoral town of Borgarnes.

That one-man operating the facility is Thordur Sigurosson.

Reyka Master Distiller (and former mechanical engineer) Sigurosson stumbled upon his hidden talent for sniffing out the purest, most refined vodka possibly in the world and has since made every batch of Reyka in the company’s history. (OK, he hired one man to help him, but that was in the past few months.)

The Manual traveled the winding road from Iceland’s capital city Reykjavik to Borgarnes to meet this distilling legend and see his beautiful alchemy in action.

We pulled up to a simple white warehouse the size of a barn. No flashy sign beyod a field of hardy Icelandic horses grazing in the neighboring plot. Sigurosson led us into the small distillery — a vertical workspace with three stories of distilling checks and minimalist stop-points where he monitors the production of each and every batch ever produced since Reyka’s founding in 2005.

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The Reyka bottle says on the label, “small batch vodka hand crafted in Iceland” and that claim is 100% true.

Without a constant running still, Sigurosson makes each batch under his watchful eye (and nose). First, a 192-proof grain spirit from Scotland is decreased to 142 proof in a gorgeous copper Carter-Head Still. These stills are rare and traditionally used to make gin (Reyka are the first ones to use them for vodka). The copper still is preferred by Reyka because the heat eliminates any burning taste and the unique chemical reaction the metal makes on the spirit is, well, unique.

Sigurosson then manually turns the wheel on the steam pipe and the lightest, purest vapor travels to the next level. This high-powered spirit filters through a glass case of volcanic rocks, which Sigurosson scavenges by hand in the backyard. Iceland is, after all, a land made of volcanic rock, so he has an abundant supply. Most vodkas are distilled with charcoal.

Sigurosson looks for rocks with more sponge-like holes and yes, collecting the right volcanic rock is a talent in itself.

If that’s not unique enough, the Reyka distillery is also run completely on geothermal power from a natural hot spring.

From a single spout, Sigurosson continuously smells the vodka, waiting for the moment when the purest vapor runs out, indicating it’s time for another batch. “I am always aiming to get the highest quality, then I shut it down and start all over again,” he says. Each batch takes five hours.

Sigurosson then dilutes the vodka with incredibly fresh Icelandic water from rain that has filtered through natural volcanic rock.

The final taste and aroma is consistently top-notch because there are no variables. Sigurosson makes sure of that. So how does a single man make hundreds of thousands of cases of vodka? Well, Sigurosson says it’s all in the nose. And no, it can’t really be taught. You’ve got to have a talent.

Born in the same town Reyka was founded, Sigurosson never thought he’d be a famous Master Distiller. He went to school for mechanical engineering and worked in oil factories building pipes while living in Reyjkavik . He moved back to his quiet home town in 2004 and a friend asked him if he wanted to distill.

“What the hell is a distiller?” Sigurosson recalls saying. He went on to score 100% in the distilling test because of his surprisingly talented nose. Not only does he make the vodka, but if anything on the distilling machines breaks down he’s the one to repair it.

Sigurosson is also naturally the one to bring the party punch any time he or a friend throws a party. His preference is clearly for vodka. Obviously Reyka, but if he’s out he looks for a vodka with no burning smell in the nose.

His go-to party recipe is as minimalist and cool as his distilling practice: Mix Reyka Vodka with sparkling water , “a bit” of sprite or 7up, and mint.

We were fascinated by this Icelandic distilling wizard and also learned he goes on week-long horse riding expeditions and has the driest, smartest wit we’ve ever encountered. All the more reason to drink Reyka —  because it’s made by the type of guy we all want to be.

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Jahla Seppanen

When it comes to luxury, The Macallan and Bentley are two of the biggest names in the world. While one is a single malt Scotch whisky brand and one is a car company, they both carry a certain, fancy weight. It only makes sense that the two brands would collaborate for a special bottle of Scotch whisky. This is likely because a whisky-powered car is more science fiction than reality. What does the new whisky look like?

It's called The Macallan Horizon, and its bottle was created in collaboration with British automobile brand Bentley Motors. It was designed to meld the worlds of single malt scotch whisky and the sleek, elegant car brand. The result is a horizontal (hence the name) bottle crafted with a breathtaking 180-degree twist.

When one hears the term cheese pairings, wine is the beverage that most often comes to mind, we'd wager. Because, of course, it is. The pairing of wine and cheese is as classic a coupling as peanut butter and jelly, bacon and eggs, or chocolate and strawberries. They're meant to be together. But that certainly doesn't mean that wine is the only adult beverage that can dance an alluring tango alongside everyone's favorite dairy product. Beer, as humble as its reputation can be, is also a beautiful balance to cheese's immense offering of flavors. While some may think of beer as not being as multi-dimensional and varied in its palate-pleasing capabilities as wine, this is not the case - especially now that we live in a world with so many exquisite craft beers, stouts, and lagers. Of course, another classic accompaniment to cheese is bread or crackers. Why might that be, one might ask. Is it because we're simply in need of a starchy vessel to usher the cheese into our mouths? The answer is actually a bit deeper than that. Starches like bread and crackers are made from the same yeasty ingredients as beer, so their pairing makes perfect culinary sense. This isn't to say, though, that one can simply pick up a hunk of cheddar and crack open a Budweiser and expect culinary artistry. The science is a bit more nuanced than that, so we're here to help you find the best pairings for your favorite beers and cheeses.

How to pair beer and cheese

If you’re new to tequila, you might not know all the terms. Even if you’re just a beginner, you probably know all about blanco, reposado, añejo, and maybe even joven. But chances are, you’re not familiar with Cristalino tequila. This reasonably contemporary style is simply añejo tequila that’s been charcoal filtered to remove its natural caramel color and various impurities.

The style is more than just a little popular. It’s actually the fastest growing style of tequila according to Nielsen data. The newest brand to get in on the Cristalino trend is Mijenta.

reyka vodka distillery tour

Travel Guide: Iceland

6 years ago

Hi Everyone,

Iceland. Where to begin, other than to say, Iceland is a country unlike any other. I can’t remember exactly when this country got on my ‘must visit’ list but it undoubtedly had something to do with numerous Instagram friends posting epic travel photos while visiting this magical country. Sooner or later, I knew I’d make my way to this Nordic island.

About a year ago, I began to conceptualize a new series to be shot against the dramatic natural wonders of Iceland’s landscape. This tiny country with a population of just 300,000 boasts at minimum of 10,000 waterfalls as well as commanding glaciers and geysers. As I delved deeper into varying ideas, I was contacted by a vodka brand. It wasn’t just any vodka though, it was Reyka Vodka ... THE Icelandic vodka. They were interested in hosting me on a trip to this historically rich country; this, of course, included endless tastes of their delicious spirit and tour of the distillery. Needless to say, they had my attention, especially considering how serendipitous their timing was.

Fast forward to last month, I traveled, along with three Team GM members, to Iceland. Over the course of five days, I shot a new series (to be released later this year) _AND_had lots of fun with the folks from Reyka. It’s always best to experience a new place with someone who knows all of the ends and outs, right? Well, Reyka did not disappoint when it came to providing an incredible insider’s guide to Iceland, and today...I’ll be sharing my new wealth of knowledge with you!

First..hop on a plane, and then wake up in Iceland.

reyka vodka distillery tour

THE MUST DO'S

The golden circle.

The Golden Circle is a popular route for visitors that include the Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir, and Thingvellir National Park . For our group, we did it first thing off the plane, as it was the best way to maximize our time. The park sits in a fractured valley caused by the separation of 2 tectonic plates, with rocky cliffsthat are hauntingly beautiful. Fun Fact: I don't watch the show but for those of you who are fans of Game of Thrones , this rugged landscape is featured in numerous episodes.

reyka vodka distillery tour

Up next, The Great Geysir . It was VERY cold outside with bone chilling winds but getting to see this natural wonderblow was worth the chill!

reyka vodka distillery tour

Along the way, there are a multiple farms along the road full of the iconic Icelandic horses. In fact, we actually stayed at one of these farms, Geysir Hestar , for the first three evenings of the trip. Therefore, the tour concluded at our newtemporary home.

reyka vodka distillery tour

Unique to the country, Icelandic horses are small but hardy animals. They're also incredibly sweet and not intimidated by human interaction. According to our first guide, it's very normal for tourists to pull to the side of the road and snap photos of these captivating animals. Luckily for me and the team, we got to spend lots of time with them!

Walking Tour of Reykjavik

reyka vodka distillery tour

The walking tour of Reykjavik, the country's capital, was definitely a highlight of the trip. Our guide was a native Icelander, which seemed to be the norm rather than a rarity. The tour began in front on Iceland's oldest tree, theSilfurreynir Tree. Planted in 1884, it was in a square with business buildings around it. From the novice point of view, it would not have caught my attention, but it was an interesting start to the tour.

Over the past few days and now as I walked along the tour, the quirky charm of the Icelandic people actualized itself to me. Perhaps, it's from living on an island that is isolated from much of the world, but I observed the Icelandic people to have an idiosyncratic world view, a fun disposition and an overall, great sense of humor about their home.For example, did you know at almost half of the Icelandic population (at least) humors the idea of elves? It's true, in fact, here is a rock that our tour guide himself, claimed to have experienced an interaction with an elf. To learn more about it, this article by The Atlantic is a pretty awesome read. Can't make this stuff up!

reyka vodka distillery tour

They are also heavily invested in the arts, and there is a beautiful opera house to prove it.

reyka vodka distillery tour

The Icelandic Opera took nearly thirty years to complete, and I think it's safe to say - it was worth the wait. The exterior and interior has a stunninglydistinctive colored glass facade, which creates rainbows along the floor. From here, we moved along to theCentre Reykiavik, where we came along this interesting statue as well as a photo moment or two. Translated to English, the name of this statueis'Nameless Official,' and it's meant to represent everyone who works to keep the system going without being recognized or acknowledged for it.

reyka vodka distillery tour

For the final leg of the tour, we headedup through the bustling streets towards Hallgrímskirkja . That's an easy one to pronounce, no? Kidding, of course, the language is completely foreign to the average on-looker. This destination, though is that of the largest church in Iceland. One can see it from the distance as your approach, so it certainly casts a wide presence in the city. Along the way, though I simply had to stop for a quick snap in front of this wall...for obvious reasons.

reyka vodka distillery tour

Okay, back to the church..

reyka vodka distillery tour

And that concludes the walking tour..

Reyka Distillery

Okay, full disclosure, this isn't open to the public. But! I have to share my experience because it'sreally toocool not to!

reyka vodka distillery tour

Located about an hour out ofReykjavik, Reyka's distillery is an unassuming building. Inside, though it is home totheir precious vodka , which is crafted in a very unique way. Considering Iceland is a land of volcanoes and glaciers, it's no surprise that Reyka uses glacial spring water, lava rock filtration, geo-thermal energy and thisvery rare Carter-Head Still..as seen below. Don't worry, I didn't know what it was either.

reyka vodka distillery tour

While there, I learned that Iceland's glacial spring water is among the cleanest water in the world and provides the base of Reyka Vodka. This wasn't a surprise to me, as I had been drinking the delicious water right from the faucent the entire time I'd been in the country.

reyka vodka distillery tour

They, then, use lava rocks as a natural and efficient filtration system.The lava rocks have zero tolerance for impurities and are easily attainable in Iceland’s many lava rock fields. This rare Carter-Head Still is the first and only one of its kind used to distill vodka, which further removes impurities. The distillery is powered by the steam from nearby hot springs. This geo-thermal energy is captured deep in the earth and supplies power without adding contaminates to the vodka or the world. Pretty impressive, right?

reyka vodka distillery tour

The Blue Lagoon

Last but certainly not least, I must INSIST that if/when you visit Iceland, you simply must go to The Blue Lagoon . I'll admit, I thought for sure it was going to be more of a tourist trap than anything else, but it exceeded any and all expectations! If you have the time, the Blue Lagoon Tour is well worth it, as you learn so much about this very special place. And, yes - they believe in elves here, too!

reyka vodka distillery tour

The main attraction, of course, is the lagoon itself. Once you find your way through the changing room and out to the lagoon entrance, ease into the soothing water and simply begin to take in the amazingness that is happening around you.

reyka vodka distillery tour

After acclimating a bit, wade your way over to the Silica Bar . This is thewhite facemask that you’ve probably seen in Instagram posts. The mask is delivered at the Silica bar, located in the lagoon; they literally just scope a ladle of it and plop it in your hands. It's amazing!

reyka vodka distillery tour

It can be applied as much as you want to the face and body, before leaving it on for at least 5 minutes. When you wash it off, the softness of your skin is undeniable.

reyka vodka distillery tour

Once you're officially a prune, it's time to make your way to the sauna and/or steam room, before rinsing off and heading home. Insider tip, go to the Blue Lagoon either on your way to the airport or upon first arriving to Iceland. I did it on the way home, and I couldn't have been more relaxed as Iboarded my flight back to the states.

reyka vodka distillery tour

Special thanks to the folks at Rekya for showing me such an incredible experience, Iceland and Reyka Vodka are officially personal favorites of mine! And, as always, thank you all for following along! Stay tuned for more from Iceland..

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Distillery Visit: Reyka Vodka

copper still Jasper Fry

Iceland – famous for its trolls and Sagas, as much as its brutal, compelling landscape – is probably not the first place you’d think of as a centre for vodka innovation. It brags geological wanderlust, with volcanoes and sulphuric geysers in abundance, but is far from arborous. It also has a pesky, potted history of prohibition: banned from 1915, and not fully lifted until 1989, when beer was finally legalised. It seems unlikely then that Iceland would be the setting for a unique revolution in vodka distillation, a ‘spiritual’ revolution if you will, happening in this place alone.

100 km from Reykjavík, in a relatively anonymous factory plant in the little town of Borganes, Reyka’s vodka is being distilled and filtered through lava rock in a beautiful, bespoke copper Carter-Head still. One of only six in the world, and modelled after Hendrick’s Gin’s Carter-Head still of the very same design, Reyka’s is the only still of its kind to be used in the production of vodka.

Diptych- copper basket chamber, and second lava chamber

Taking its name partly from the perforated copper basket which sits atop a colossal 23ft copper column, when used in gin production it is where the major botanicals are placed during distillation. In the case of Reyka’s vodka, they’ve replaced them with lava rock. “It’s basically like a sponge”, Distillery Manager Magnus Göransson explains. The spirit passes through the porous rock, which acts as a natural filtration system, before being passed through a second lava chamber, which removes any remaining imperfections. “Solely putting it through lava is not enough to give it that flavour you get by putting the vapours through; it changes the solution. It shapes and softens it”.

“Air can easily pollute the spirit. Here in Borganes, there is no real industrial business, so the pollution is limited” googletag.cmd.push(function() { var mpu = googletag.defineSlot("/118593530/MPU__Article_Port", [0,0], 'div-gpt-ad-mpu-17116350811757913528'). setCollapseEmptyDiv(true,true). defineSizeMapping( googletag.sizeMapping() .addSize([1,0],[300,250]) .build() ). addService(googletag.pubads()); googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-mpu-17116350811757913528'); googletag.pubads().refresh(); });

The resulting vodka is exceptionally clean tasting, free of minerals and tarnishes. It’s also one of the most ecologically viable methods of vodka distillation, as it harnesses fresh water, which registers amongst the lowest natural minerality levels and the fewest imperfections of water anywhere in the world – “they had to recalibrate their machines when they were testing it” – and geo-thermal heat from the nearby Grábrók springs. “Obviously, it’s a very important part of making good vodka, having good water and clean air. Air can easily pollute the spirit. Here in Borganes, there is no real industrial business, so the pollution is limited.” The water from Grábrók is so good, it’s used in raw, untreated form throughout the distillation process.

Additionally, an engineering feat, the 3,000-litre copper still is one of the most effective distillation methods in practice: after tails are discarded, around 2,800 litres of vodka is bottled from a starting distillation batch of approximately 2,940 litres. Even the lava rocks are put back once they are due to be replaced (around every 50 distillations).

View across Borg

Words Betty Wood Photography Jasper Fry

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If you like your vodka on the rocks, then you’re sure to love vodka on a glacier. The Icelandic vodka company Reyka is making history with the world's first-ever bar on a glacier

If you like your vodka on the rocks, then you’re sure to love vodka on a glacier. The Icelandic vodka company Reyka is making history with the world’s first-ever bar on a glacier  —  “Where you can sip a Puffin Collins surrounded by narwhals and psychedelic auroras.” 

More ice, please? Reyka vodka company is sending people to drink spirits at their glacier pop-up bar

For just five days in October, Reyka Vodka Glacier Bar will serve arctic cocktails in a pop-up bar on top of the spectacular  Langjökull Glacier  in Iceland. We hope you like your glasses chilled!

reyka vodka distillery tour

What the bar should look like when it opens (Reyka/PA)

The world’s only glacier bar, this boozy winter wonderland will sit on Langjökull glacier — Iceland’s second-largest glacier

reyka vodka distillery tour

Man at Langjokull Glacier in Iceland

Reyka is proudly labeled as “Made of Iceland.” To be more exact, it’s actually made of Langjökull Glacier  —  Iceland’s second-largest glacier and the liquor’s water source. The glacial spring water runs through a 4,000-year-old lava field, which is then naturally filtered by the rock. As a result, researchers have found the water to be some of the purest on Earth.  

Langjökull is not only the site of “Vodka Glacier Bar,” but is also the water source for Reyka’s signature flavor

reyka vodka distillery tour

Landscape of Volcano Crater

While Reyka isn’t the only spirits company to use Iceland’s pristine waters, it was the first to be distilled and bottled in the country. An eco-minded company, Reyka boasts an emission-free distillery powered entirely by the area’s volcanic activity. This production process led to the name “Reyka” (Ray-KUH)  —  an ancient Icelandic word for “steam” or “smoke.”

Chilling by the bar isn’t the only activity on the glacier. There are tons of exciting adventure tours in and around the ice floe!

reyka vodka distillery tour

Into the Glacier Ice Cave

Top off your bar visit with an   expedition inside the glacier . Langjökull is home to the largest man-made ice cave in the world, and while they don’t serve alcohol inside, the glittering blue walls are a true sight to see. For adrenaline-seekers, take the chance to rove around the massive ice floe on a snowmobile or super jeep. Don’t forget to pack your balaclava!

Much like the fleeting ice caves, this bar won’t be around long. Reyka Vodka Bar is only open for five days in October

Snowmobiling across Langjökull glacier & visiting an natural Ice Cave

You’ll need more than snowboots to reach this icy establishment. To get toasty at this glacial bar, you got to be on the list. Sign up on the  Reyka website . Don’t get left out in the cold  —  their doors will only be open for five days between October 16 and October 20.

Source:  Press Association 2019 (h/t:  virginmediatelevision.ie )

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THE DISTILLERY

Established in 2009 64°Reykjavik Distillery is the first Icelandic distillery of its kind. Its a family run, independent micro-distillery. 64°Reykjavik spirits are handcrafted from Icelandic nature to your glass. Many desire knowledge of the Reykjavik methods, as it’s believed that those were presented to the Distillery by a local elf named Benedikt who had been assigned by its king to present the knowledge to the man-world. The methods include: natural infusion, small batch distillation and sustainability sourced, locally harvested ingredients. Maybe this explains the mysterious depth of the flavours from 64°Reykjavik Distillery.

Skál and hail to the elf.

reyka vodka distillery tour

Our story is a simple one of dedication to foraging for flavour.  We take our chance to capture the short arctic summer by gathering delicious berries and botanicals from the Icelandic wilds. The unique, rich local harvest can only be completed by our own hands at Reykjavik Distillery and those of our network of farmers and foragers. From picking in the hills of Icelandic valleys to the handcrafting in the distillery, there’s hard work and great care in every part of our processes. This time and effort is reflected in the quality of our products that we proudly supply to the finest local bars and restaurants. It’s our pleasure to distil the flavour of Iceland into the fine craft spirits that grace your glass.

reyka vodka distillery tour

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Established in 2009 Reykjavik Distillery is the first Icelandic distillery of its kind. As a family run, independent micro-distillery it is recognized as the vanguard of high quality crafted spirits. 

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Reyka Vodka Review

This Icelandic vodka is known for its purity and sustainable practices.

Liquor.com has been serving drinks enthusiasts and industry professionals since 2009. Our writers are some of the most respected in the industry, and our recipes are contributed by bartenders who form a veritable "Who's Who" of the cocktail world.

Liquor.com / Sarah Maiden

Overall: Our tasting panel’s overall assessment of the quality of the product,as well as its rank in comparison to others within the category

Value for Price: Our tasting panel’s assessment of this product’s quality-to-cost ratio within its larger category of competitors.

Mixability: Our rating of how well this product can be used as a component in cocktails.

Sippability: Our rating of how well this product tastes as a stand-alone pour.

Learn More about Liquor.com's Review Process

Reviewed by

reyka vodka distillery tour

Tony Abou-Ganim

Managing Partner, Libertine Social

reyka vodka distillery tour

CEO and founder, LP Drinks Co.

reyka vodka distillery tour

Julie Reiner

Co-owner, Clover Club, Leyenda, and Milady’s

The story of Reyka Vodka is intrinsically tied to Iceland. Made with unfiltered glacial spring water filtered through a lava field that dates back 4,000 years, and distilled by geothermal energy powered by volcanoes, this Icelandic spirit has been a trailblazer in the vodka category since launching in 2005. 

Our reviewers agree that Reyka Vodka’s crisp, clean, and neutral flavor profile is versatile enough to enjoy straight out of the freezer or mixed into a Vodka Martini or highball where it can shine. The tasting panel also recommends pairing seafood or savory cheeses with this food-friendly spirit.

Classification: Vodka

Company: William Grant & Sons

Producer: Reyka Vodka

Expression: Reyka Vodka

Still Type: Carter-Head still

Aged: Unaged

Released: 2005

Price: $19.99

Awards: Vodka Trophy, 2011 International Wine & Spirits Competition; Double Gold, 2019 International Spirits Challenge Gold, 2023 TAG Global Spirits Awards

Crisp, neutral flavor profile

Shines on its own or in cocktails

Food-friendly

Not as widely available as some of its competitors

May need an explanation for novice drinkers to truly appreciate

Tasting Notes

Color: Clear

Nose: Lemon zest, black pepper, fresh-cut hay, bread dough, wet slate, oyster shell, white pepper, cinnamon, anise, sweet vanilla, toasted nuts

Palate: Soft and oily, with notes of black pepper, licorice, faint lavender, malty grain, toffee, caramel, crème brulee, white pepper, and anise 

Finish: Short to medium-length with earthy and vegetal notes, as well as black and white pepper, cream soda, mushrooms, and anise 

Similar bottles: Absolut, Ketel One, Chopin, Hanger One, Stoli, Stoli Elit, Tito's, Grey Goose

Suggested uses: Neat from the freezer, on the rocks; in a Vodka Tonic , Vodka Soda , Kangaroo or Vodka Martini with a twist of lemon or olive; paired with seafood—pickled fish, caviar, oysters, and funky cheese

Our reviewers unanimously agree that this Icelandic vodka, known for its purity and sustainable distillation process, is a quality spirit versatile enough to be sipped on its own, mixed into a Vodka Martini, or paired with food. 

“I think that this vodka is a beautiful distillate,” says LP O’Brien. “It’s soft on the palate and transitions into a beautiful zesty dance that ends with a peppery bite.” 

“I love this vodka,” says Tony Abou-Ganim. “It’s [a] big, bold, powerful, Old World style [of] vodka that truly celebrates the terroir where it is produced, as well as the ingredients it is produced from.” 

Julie Reiner adds that it has a “clean, mineral-forward profile,” and notes that Reyka is a “great bottle of vodka for the price.”

Every member of our tasting panel notes citrus zest, pepper spice, and minerality on the nose and palate.

O’Brien describes the palate as “soft and oily,” while Reiner observes “black pepper spice, licorice, [and] faint lavender.”

Abou-Ganim finds a “malty graininess upon entry leading to complex layers of toffee, caramel, and crème brûlée, followed by white pepper and anise spice.”

Reiner detects a “fairly short finish with black pepper and cream soda,” while Abou-Ganim finds “a medium-length finish with earthy, vegetal notes, mushrooms, and anise spice.”

Each member of the tasting panel observed a clean nature to this vodka, and quality that allows for it to be served on its own, paired with food, or mixed into cocktails. 

“This is a vodka that does not need to be mixed. [It can] simply be enjoyed on its own, straight from the freezer,” says Abou-Ganim. He also notes that Reyka “will stand up to dry vermouth in a Kangaroo and works well with a twist of lemon or a big Spanish olive, or both.” 

Reiner concurs. “Because this vodka is fairly neutral, it would be fantastic out of the freezer with dilution added [or] served as a Martini with oysters,” she says.

Abou-Ganim further adds that Reyka “is also great with certain foods, neat from the freezer with [the] smoke of pickled fish, funky cheese and, especially, caviar.” 

Our tasting panel also recognizes Reyka’s friendly price point and considers this bottling an outstanding value. 

“Truthfully, there are vodkas with a similar mission but nothing comes close in my opinion from a quality and marketing perspective,” says O’Brien. “[Reyka] is pocket-friendly with amazing versatility, [and] can accommodate entry-level [drinkers] to the advanced bartender.”

Reyka Vodka is made in Borgarnes, a small coastal town in western Iceland, about 45 miles north of Reykjavík, the country’s capital. 

Distilled in small batches from barley and wheat, Reyka is made with Icelandic glacial spring water that is naturally filtered through 4,000-year-old lava rocks. These lava rocks are also used to filter the vodka during distillation. 

Because wheat and barley are tough crops to grow in Iceland, Reyka sources its neutral grain spirit from Scotland—the same base used in Hendrick’s Gin. 

Reyka Vodka’s neutral grain spirit is distilled just once in a Carter-Head still—a type of copper pot still used to make a few select spirits around the world, typically gin—resulting in a highly pure final product. Once the distillate comes off the still, the spirit is blended with more of the pure glacial spring water, bringing the proof down to 40% ABV.

The entire distilling process takes about five hours and is powered by geothermal energy that is produced by the area’s volcanic waters underground—a renewable energy source that is emissions-free.

In 2005, looking to invest in the vodka category while also taking advantage of Iceland’s environmental purity and geothermal resources, William Grant & Sons, the Scotland-based distiller and distributor behind some of the world’s leading scotch brands, opened Iceland’s first modern distillery and started production on Reyka Vodka. 

The inspiration behind making vodka in Iceland is said to come from a William Grant & Sons family member who would travel to the country regularly.

The identity of the brand was formed around Iceland’s unique geography and sustainable energy sources, with a specific emphasis on the purity of the air, land, and distilling process. Reyka, the ancient Icelandic word for steam or smoke, was the name given to the brand to honor its origins.

–Written and edited by Prairie Rose

Interesting Fact

Reyka’s master distiller Thordur Sigurdsson has worked with the brand in different capacities since the launch, officially taking the helm as master distiller in 2012. The fishing town of Borgarnes, where Reyka is distilled, is so tiny (fewer than 2,000 people live there) that he also works as a fireman and policeman in the village.

The Bottom Line

Our tasting panel has high praise for Reyka Vodka’s quality, versatility, and dedication to sustainable distilling practices. They recommend sipping this Icelandic spirit directly from the freezer, mixing it into a cocktail where it will shine, such as a Vodka Martini, or pairing it with a savory seafood dish.

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The First-ever Vodka Bar on a Glacier Is Opening in the Arctic Circle — Here’s How to Visit

reyka vodka distillery tour

Nothing goes better with a vodka cocktail than lots of ice.

And we’re not just talking about the cubes in your drink. A pop-up bar presented by Reyka Vodka is serving visitors truly ice-cold beverages in the middle of Iceland's Langjökull Glacier, Metro reported .

Ice bars and ice hotels have certainly become novel destinations for travelers who love the cold, so clearly the next step is having a happy hour on one.

The bar itself will be located at 64.565653°N, -20.024822°W , which is about 1,200 miles north in the Arctic Circle, according to Metro . This is also where Reyka sources its Arctic spring water for its vodka. The brand also uses volcanic rock filtration and a Carter-Head Still in order to produce its unique, clean taste, according to Forbes . Its distillery is also powered by steam produced by natural geothermal hot springs.

“Reyka Vodka is not just made in Iceland, it’s made of Iceland — so where better to host our Reyka Bar than at the very source,” brand ambassador Fabiano Latham told Metro .

One of the specialty cocktails that travelers will be able to try is the Puffin Collins, named after the brand’s animal mascot. The cocktail, a twist on a classic Tom Collins, includes vodka (of course), grapefruit, elderflower, soda and tomato garnish, according to Forbes .

The special experience will only be made available to a few vodka lovers who will be chosen if they sign up for an interview on the Reyka Vodka website. The bar will only be open for five days between Oct. 16 and 20. There is currently room on the waiting list to be interviewed.

But even if you can’t make it to the glacier, according to Forbes , you may still be able to sample these special cocktails once the pop-up goes on the road with a touring company. Dates for the tour are not yet announced.

More information can be found on the Reyka Vodka website .

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We'll be in Borgarnes in early September and wonder if the Reyka Vodka Distillery is open for tours? Can't seem to find information anywhere about it.

reyka vodka distillery tour

I would send them an email.

Thanks. Will do.

Interested in this as well. Post back if you hear anything.

reyka vodka distillery tour

I haven't been able to contact Reyka Vodka. Please post if you are successful. Would love to take a tourt.

I sent an email to their website back in July 2016 asking about a possible tour in September 2016. I never heard back from them.

Try their "facebook" site; it appears to be active...

Only thinking some of friends only use email, some text, some facebook...

I will try facebook. Thought I did. Thanks for the suggestion.

I just tried facebook. I saw photos and comments of folks who toured but no information about visiting the distillery. Frustrating.

I asked them on facebook and just got the reply that they do not offer public tours of their distillery at this time.

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reyka vodka distillery tour

The Ultimate Guide to Icelandic Liquor and Spirits

The Ultimate Guide to Icelandic Liquor and Spirits

Arnar Tómas

A Brief History of Icelandic Liquor

Prohibition, icelandic liquor today, what makes icelandic liquor unique, pure icelandic water, unique natural ingredients, rich historical heritage.

  • 3 Must-tries of Icelandic Liquor
  • 1. Brennivín
  • 2. Flóki Whiskey
  • 3. Björk Liqueur

Top 3 Brands of Icelandic Vodka

1. reyka vodka, 2. katla vodka, 3. loki vodka, top 3 brands of icelandic gin, 1. himbrimi old tom gin.

  • 2. Ólafsson Gin

3. Icelandic Eagle Gin

3 curiosities in icelandic liquor, 3. fjallagrasa icelandic schnapps, where to find icelandic liquor, keflavik airport duty-free, vinbudin alcohol store, bars and restaurants, icelandic drinking culture.

Brennivín isan aquavit and the signature spirit of Iceland.

Alcohol is often associated with Icelandic culture thanks to its Viking image. This isn't far from the truth, as statistics show that Icelandic people still like to have a drink or few, just like their ancestors did. Although Iceland's drinking culture has a history stretching back to its settlement, production could often be tricky due to tough weather conditions, and the country had a decades-long prohibition that was only lifted late in the last century.

Despite all the troubles, Iceland now has a thriving alcohol industry where innovation meets top-end craftsmanship. Icelandic liquor, in particular, has made quite a splash internationally, with excellent and often unusual spirits leaving their mark on people. 

Whether sipping on Brennivín or savoring a modern cocktail made with Icelandic moss at a hotel in Iceland , you should not miss the chance to get to know the spirits that warm the Icelandic people's spirits. If you are interested in the fascinating world of Icelandic liquor, read on and let us guide you through the Icelandic spirit world.

A great way to get into the spirit of Icelandic spirits is on a guided 2.5-hour Reykjavik beer & schnapps walking tour  or several other delicious food and drink tours .

Ale and mead were a large part of the lives of Iceland's settlers.

Photo from  Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Christian Krohg . No edits made.

When Iceland was settled in the 9th century, Norse settlers brought knowledge of brewing and distillation techniques. Ale, mead, and beer are commonplace in the Icelandic sagas and old poems that describe lively drinking culture in detail, such as this excerpt from the old Icelandic poem of Hávamál:

Less good than they say for the sons of men is the drinking oft of ale: for the more they drink, the less can they think and keep a watch o'er their wits.

The goat Heiðrún is every microbrewer's dream pet.

Despite the Icelandic people's long-lasting enthusiasm for a drink, the country's climate made brewing and distilling alcohol problematic, so local drinkers primarily relied on imports throughout the centuries. This was especially prominent in the 17th and 18th centuries when the Danish Crown had a monopoly on imports of wares such as alcohol.

Beer was banned in Iceland between 1915 and 1989.

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Swedish National Heritage Board . No edits made.

Early in the 20th century, a growing number of voices were concerned that alcohol consumption in Iceland had become excessive and was hindering societal growth. This led to a prohibition in Iceland in 1915, where the sale of all alcohol was banned.

Iceland's trade relations with Spain caused the ban to be partially lifted in 1922 when Spain threatened to stop buying cod from Iceland if Spanish wine remained banned. Import of alcohol was later permitted if the strength of the alcohol was under 21%. Beer was, however, still banned.

A ban didn't stop creative minds in Iceland from getting their hands on spirits. Smuggling and brewing were commonplace, and doctors could prescribe alcohol for medicinal use against often mild ailments. The ban on liquor was lifted in 1933, but beer remained banned. It wasn't until March 1st, 1989, that the beer ban was fully lifted, a day that the Icelandic people now celebrate as Beer Day . This longstanding ban makes Iceland the only Western democracy to have a nationwide prohibition on beer for such a prolonged period. 

Following the repeal of the beer ban and the prohibition, Icelandic breweries and distilleries started to emerge. Today, Icelandic alcohol production has evolved into a thriving industry celebrated for its craftsmanship and distinct flavors. Local distilleries create various spirits, including vodka, gin, schnapps, and traditional Icelandic liqueurs infused with native botanicals.

Trying some of the many liquors Iceland has to offer is an excellent way for visitors to connect with the country's heritage and experience its unique drinking culture.

Iceland's water is famously pure.

Iceland's water originates primarily from glacial meltwater and natural springs. The country is home to numerous glaciers and ice caps, providing a steady supply of pure, mineral-rich water. Icelandic water undergoes natural filtration as it passes through layers of volcanic rock and lava fields. This volcanic filtration process helps remove impurities, resulting in exceptionally clean and clear water, which lends itself well to brewing and distilling smooth liquors.

The Icelandic wilderness has many natural ingredients reflecting the country's unique environment. Juniper berries, arctic thyme, birch branches, and even Icelandic moss are all ingredients that leave a tasty and memorable mark on Icelandic spirits. 

Since the drinking culture of Iceland has roots ranging back to its settlement, there is plenty of inspiration to draw on when coming up with concepts for liquor. Taking a swig of the right liquor can instantly put you into the mindset of a Viking or an Icelandic fisherman.

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If you're going to be exploring Icelandic drinking culture, here are a few local brands of liquor that you have to try out while visiting the country.

1. Brennivín

Brennivín is also nicknamed Black Death.

Today, the name Brennivín is usually reserved for a specific type of clear, unsweetened schnapps produced since the 1930s. It is a type of akvavit, a type of spirit common in Nordic countries, and has a distinctive taste that can be an acquired preference due to its strong caraway flavor.

While it was once a popular choice for mixing, Brennivín is most commonly consumed as a straight shot or "sipping" spirit. Brennivín has a large part in many Icelandic traditions and is taken with traditional Icelandic cuisine such as fermented shark (hákarl), where the strong flavor of Brennivín is said to complement the pungent taste of the meat.

The state originally produced Brennivín during the prohibition era until a private company overtook production shortly after the beer ban was lifted. The iconic black label, initially used by the state to make the drink seem as unappealing as possible, remains on the bottle. 

Although Brennivín is Iceland's signature spirit, it is rarely a drink of choice and is rather reserved for special occasions. A shot of Brennivín is offered at the end of the excellent Reykjavik Food Walk Tour , which offers valuable insight into Iceland's culture of food and drink.

2. Flóki Whiskey

Flóki whisky is adorned with the three ravens of Hrafna-Flóki.

Eimverk Distillery, which produces Flóki whisky, has played a significant role in putting Icelandic whiskey on the map. The whiskey is matured in new American oak casks using barley from Icelandic soil combined with Icelandic spring water, resulting in a complex malt.

The whiskey draws its name from the Viking explorer Hrafna-Flóki. One of the first voyagers to sail to Iceland and is credited for giving Iceland its name. Flóki made us of ravens to search the island, earning him the nickname which translates to "Raven-Flóki," and three ravens can be spotted on the whiskey's logo.

A great way to get a better insight into the distilling process at Eimverk Distillery is on a unique 1-Hour distillery tour with tastings of Icelandic whiskey, gin & brennivin .

3. Björk Liqueur

Every bottle of Björk contains an Icelandic birch branch.

Björk is part of a larger family of birch liqueurs, as different variations are available in Birkir, Bjarki, and Börkur. The brand is easily recognizable thanks to the distillery's signature touch of putting a birch branch in every bottle.

While Iceland is relatively new to the world of distilling vodka, there are already several high-quality vodka brands available that make use of the country's natural resources. Here are our choices for the best three Icelandic brands of vodka.

Reyka Vodka is considered impeccably smooth.

Introduced in 2005, Reyka Vodka is a premium vodka that quickly garnered international acclaim from vodka enthusiasts. Reyka is created using sustainable energy and is hailed for its exceptional quality and unique production process. 

Distilled in Borgarnes from barley and wheat, Reyka Vodka is made from glacial water that runs through a nearby 4,000-year-old lava field. The rock naturally filters the water, resulting in some of the purest water on Earth. Researchers that have tested these waters found zero impurities. This water has a unique mineral composition that adds to the vodka's flavor and character.

Katla Vodka is produced by a family-run micro-distillery.

Produced by a family-run micro-distillery, Katla Vodka is another excellent addition to Iceland's emerging vodka scene. Making full use of Iceland's pure water, Katla is rich, smooth, and distilled as often as necessary to achieve the desired purity.

Sharing a name with Katla , one of Iceland's mightiest volcanos, the black and white packaging is a nod to the mountain's location on the map, with the red label at the cap symbolizing lava.

Loki Vodka is Iceland's only potato based vodka.

Loki Vodka is named after the Norse god of mischief, and the bottle features a large Icelandic magical stave, the Helm of Awe. This might mean the vodka makes you mischievous. We just know it tastes good.

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Gin production has become increasingly popular in Iceland in recent years. The country's pure water and unique local ingredients make for a great base when producing a tasty gin. Here are our choices for the best brands of Icelandic gin.

Himbrimi is the Icelandic word for the common loon.

The gin's name is drawn from the Icelandic translation of the common loon, the native waterbird, which adorns the label of Himbrimi. A beloved bird inhabiting many lakes and ponds in Iceland, the common loon is known for its spectacular diving abilities and eerie calls.

2. Ólafsson Gin

A bottle of Ólafsson Gin looks quite adventurous.

Eggert Ólafsson (1726-1768) was an Icelandic writer, naturalist, and traveler, best known for his collaboration with his colleague Bjarni Pálsson on the seminal work Travels in Iceland. They embarked on an extensive journey throughout Iceland from 1752 to 1757, documenting their observations and experiences of Iceland's landscape, nature, and culture. 

Icelandic Eagle Gin offers a soft and sweet finish.

Strongman and Game of Thrones actor Hafthor Julius Bjornson served as the brand for Icelandic Mountain Vodka, the predecessor to Icelandic Eagle Gin. While not quite as muscular as the strongman, the eagle is still a fine symbol of Icelandic heritage.

Last but certainly not least is a list of unusual drinks unique to Iceland. Here are three liquors, each with its own connection to Icelandic culture.

Opal has an acquired taste.

Based on a popular household candy, Opal is a popular and longstanding staple in Iceland's liquor lineup. Opal is best described as sweet, with a strong taste of licorice and a hint of menthol. 

As Icelandic children are raised on the chewable Opal candy, the transition to the liquor comes quite naturally and with a certain sense of nostalgia. People who do not have fond childhood memories of the candy might not take to the liquor as well, especially if they are unaccustomed to the taste of Nordic licorice. Film director Quentin Tarantino described Opal in an interview with Conan O'Brien:

"Now, I don't really know what poison tastes like because if I did, I'd be dead. But if I had to imagine what poison tastes like, it would be this stuff: Opal."

Landi is Icelandic moonshine.

This has changed with the introduction of the first commercially branded Landi. Produced in Borgarfjordur , where moonshine brewing was common, this Landi is based on old traditions but distilled with modern technology and follows regulations. All of the fun without losing your eyesight!

Fjallagrasa Icelandic Schnapps contains real Icelandic moss.

Have you ever thought, "Do you know what this drink could use? A large clump of moss floating in it." Well, you're not going to believe this.

Fjallagrasa Icelandic Schnapps is a unique spirit made from moss that is hand-picked on the mountains in Iceland. It is made by steeping the ground moss in alcohol and then distilling it to create a potent liquor.

Fjallagrasa Icelandic Schnapps draws its name from the Icelandic moss it's made from. Icelandic moss has been used for centuries for various purposes, ranging from traditional medicine to culinary applications. In terms of medicinal use, Icelandic moss has been traditionally employed to soothe respiratory conditions, including coughs and sore throats. 

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Vinbudin is Iceland's state-run alcohol store.

If you're arriving at Keflavik Airport and plan on doing some drinking in Iceland, grabbing some bottles from the Duty-Free store is a great idea as the prices are lower. This is also a great place to take home a liquid souvenir when leaving the country if you've developed a taste for Icelandic liquor during your stay.

All over Iceland, you will run into the state-run chain of alcohol stores  Vinbudin , the only stores selling alcohol in Iceland over the counter. Open from Mondays to Saturdays, the larger stores have a wide selection of different types of liquor, beer, and wine in stock, while the smaller ones tend to stick to the staples. Opening hours can vary depending on locations, with stores in villages in the countryside usually having shorter opening hours.

Iceland has a thriving restaurant and bar scene, with different establishments providing drinks from other providers. If you don't find the liquor you're looking for, don't be afraid to explore different bars or different items on the drink menu! If you're worried about prices, take a look at our Happy Hour guide to Reykjavik's cheapest bars . And if you want to find the best places to grab a bite, see our guide to the best restaurants in Reykjavik .

Skál!

Photo from  Locally Hosted Reykjavik Beer & Food Tour at the Old Harbor .

When going out drinking in Iceland, many visitors will be disappointed by the high prices of drinks downtown. This disappointment is shared by the locals, who will often opt to start the night with drinks at home to save money before venturing out later in the evening.

Because of this, the downtown area might sometimes seem quite empty early in the evening but will fill up around midnight. Remember that the legal drinking age in Iceland is 20, which is higher than in most European countries. 

  • See more: Reykjavik Nightlife Guide: The Best Bars and Clubs in Iceland .

The food at Thorrablot is not for everyone.

If this list doesn't make your mouth water, you can take comfort in the fact that many of these "delicacies" are to be washed down with Brennivín. Most Icelandic people will only partake in these foods once a year; for outsiders, it can be seen as a rite of passage.

Skál!

Did you enjoy our article about Icelandic liquor? Do you have any unanswered questions? What were your favorite spirits in Iceland? Did we is them? Please feel let us know in the comments below!

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Sip icelandic vodka on top of a glacier.

The world’s first pop-up bar on a glacier is being built in the Arctic Circle. Reyka Vodka, the only vodka distillery in Iceland, are now in the process of opening the first ever pop-up cocktail bar on an Icelandic glacier.

The official opening is on 17 October, when a few specially chosen travellers will make their way up north to experience this drink of a lifetime.

The Reyka Vodka Glacier Bar will be located 1,931km north at 64.565653°N -20.024822°W, on top of the Langjökull Glacier.

  View this post on Instagram   if(window.isMobile != null || window.isTablet != null){ document.write(' '); document.write(' '); googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('dfp-300x250-2'); }); document.write(' '); } Balance. Nature. Vodka. Iceberg. Beauty. Those are five English words we know. Also, this is a nice picture. 📸: @moonlight.graeme A post shared by Reyka Vodka (@reyka_vodka) on Mar 6, 2019 at 7:38am PST if(window.isMobile != null || window.isTablet != null){ document.write(' '); document.write(' '); googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('dfp-300x250-3'); }); document.write(' '); }

Those who applied and were chosen through an interview process with the distillery will be able to try the unique vodka in signature cocktails like the ‘Puffin Collins’ and ‘Icelandic Mule’ at this unique location.

Iceland is known as the ‘land of fire and ice’ because of it’s massive glaciers and active volcanoes, the distillery uses these elements when making it’s small batch vodka.

It uses Arctic spring water from the glaciers and filters the spirit through lava rocks, which takes six hours from start to finish. The distillery is also eco-friendly and is powered by steam generated from the geothermal hot springs.

Although they have already chosen all the participants, those who are keen to go onto the waiting list can still apply  for an interview with the distillery’s ambassador.

Image source: Reyke bar

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Lava Rocks and Glacier Water: How Reyka Vodka Makes Some of the Purest Vodka in the World

Lava Rocks and Glacier Water: How Reyka Vodka Makes Some of the Purest Vodka in the World

Reyka Vodka has garnered a reputation as being one of the purest vodkas in the world. Of course, that’s quite a distinction; one some more discernible boozehounds might find suspect. We traveled with the Reyka team to their distillery, located roughly an hour north of Reykjavík in the beautiful rural town of Borganes, to better understand the praise heaped on the label.

When we arrived at the distillery, Reyka Master Distiller Thordur Sigurdsson greeted us at the tiny door in the back. The minute we were inside, we were immersed in all the action. No kitschy gift shops to walk through, no preliminary history lectures, and no bottle-lined lobby. There’s something to be said about a distillery tour that starts and ends in one room, and focuses on the good stuff instead of the fluff.

Sigurdsson  stressed five key points in terms of what makes Reyka Vodka so special: Their pure Icelandic glacier water, the lava filtration, the Carter-Head Still, the use of geothermal pre-heating, and their physical geographic location.

And that is where this story begins.

reyka vodka distillery tour

Booze Meets Science Through Geothermal Heat

On the whole, Iceland isn’t just an absolutely gorgeous country with snowcapped mountains, glaciers, springs, and geysers galore; it’s a country that acknowledges its natural beauty and goes to great lengths to preserve it. In fact, it’s one of the only  countries in the world that can say it obtains 100% of its electricity and heat from renewable sources—mainly geothermal and hydropower.

Naturally, the Reyka Vodka distillery follows suit. What makes Reyka unique is that when their neutral grain spirit is placed into the still, it’s preheated using geothermal energy (which also powers the entire distillery) that comes as a byproduct of the area’s volcanically heated groundwater. The preheating of the neutral grain spirit ensures a specific reaction in the still, and is essential to the overall final product.

Once the geothermal preheating of the neutral grain spirit is done, the water then cycles through the distillery to provide power and heat. It’s all totally emissions free, which translates simply to, “This is some of the cleanest booze on the planet in every damn sense of the word.”

reyka vodka distillery tour

The Magic of the Carter-Head Still

Does it sound like the title of a J.K. Rowling novel? Maybe. But it’s true. The Carter-Head still is considered one of the best, rarest, and unique stills on the planet, and so much of Reyka’s characteristic flavor profile comes as a direct result of it being distilled in one of these bad boys. There are only six in the entire world, and of them, Reyka is the only company using one to produce vodka .

The copper from this still design rectifies the neutral grain spirit differently than other stills, resulting in a lighter, crisper, and more vibrant flavor profile. It’s for this reason Carter-Head stills are popular in gin distillation, and part of the reason why Reyka uses it as the vessel by which their vodka is created.

The other part is because at the top of the Carter-Head still’s giant column, just following the vapor pipe, lies something called a botanical basket. In gin production, this is exactly what it sounds like. The botanicals that give gin its juniper-y, citrus-y, and floral-y flavors go inside the box, and the spirit is passed through and thus infused with those flavors.

However, at some point, someone had the ingenious idea to incorporate that into Reyka’s distillation process, only the botanical box is filled with purifying lava rock.

reyka vodka distillery tour

Lava Rock and Some of the Purest Water on Earth

Because Reyka prides itself on its all-natural clean production process, they use locally sourced lava rock to filter out impurities after the vapor from the still is turned back into a liquid. Every drop of that liquid passes through the lava rock-filled botanical box, and is even filtered again later on down the line just to make sure the spirit is pure as can be.

And while the botanical box is the first time the spirit will filter through lava rock, it’s important to note the glacial water with which the neutral grain spirit is blended passes through an entire field of lava rocks. That water is sourced from one of Iceland’s many springs, Grábrók. Grábrók is important because the legendary spring’s water flows through a 4,000-year-old lava rock field, making it some of the purest water in the entire world. For Reyka Vodka, it means no strange minerality, weird flavors, or impurities make their ways into the final product.

Oh, and for context’s sake, we think it’s worth mentioning that adding water is an integral part of making Reyka Vodka (and many other spirits, for that matter) what it is. Because barley doesn’t grow well in Iceland’s tough climate and less-than-ideal soil, they source their neutral grain spirit from Scotland. (Actually, quick fun fact: It’s the same barley-based neutral grain spirit used in Hendrick’s Gin. Just goes to show how important the distillation process is, eh?)

When the neutral grain spirit arrives at Reyka, it’s a whopping 96% alcohol, which means it’s roughly 192 proof. For comparison, good white lightning moonshine is somewhere around 160 proof or so. Filtered glacial water from Grábrók is added to it in the still to bring it down to 70% alcohol, which makes it 140 proof. After the distillation occurs and some of the water is lost (it turns to steam and evaporates in the process), the purified spirit is roughly 92% alcohol, or 184 proof. Finally, that spirit is blended with yet more filtered glacial water, which brings it down to its final product, 40% alcohol or 80 proof, which is what gets bottled and sold worldwide.

The key here is that when it comes to your whiskies or bourbons or rums (a rule of thumb is anything that isn’t clear), there’s an aging process, whereby the distilled spirit is matured in casks for years until enough alcohol evaporates (AKA, the angels share) to make it acceptable to bottle and sell. So, a rum that goes into a cask at 90% alcohol is then aged in barrels for XX years, where XX% of the alcohol evaporates out of the spirit, where it is then shipped off for bottling.

Vodka traditionally isn’t barrel-aged at all, which makes blending with water essential to the process. 

Small Batches Mean More Attention to Detail

Reyka Vodka has been on our radar for years, which made just how small their operation is all the more surprising. There’s one small building, one still, and literally two people at the helm of the entire Reyka Vodka distillation process, but what Reyka “lacks” in production volume, they make up for in quality.

One whole distillation process takes between five and six hours, and yields a grand total of 3,000 liters of Reyka Vodka per day. That translates to roughly only 115,000 9-liter cases every year. Since that number is probably meaningless to you, for comparison’s sake, household major label Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum manufactures 750,000 9-liter cases every year, which means there’s over 6.5 times more Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum being boxed and sold every year than Reyka Vodka.

The “small batch” distinction on Reyka’s label is indeed an accurate one.

Naturally, that translates to more intimate quality assurance standards. In one distillation process, Sigurdsson separates the harsher head and tail of the vodka from the heart, which is the stuff that eventually gets blended with glacial water and then bottled. How does he tell the difference? Taste and smell. Seriously, that is the scientific process by which Reyka’s quality is gauged. One man—one extremely qualified and masterfully well-trained man, of course—one nose, and one set of taste buds decides what’s worth bottling, and what’s worth tossing out.

But in the end, that’s what we appreciate about this smaller vodka brand. You won’t see Post Malone ripping shots of Reyka in his next music video, frat kids won’t be ordering the stuff by the gallon for their Friday night batch of jungle juice, and you definitely won’t see bars offering it up to the happy hour gods in their well-vodka batch cocktails. Because that’s not what Reyka is. Reyka is a clean and pure vodka with modest origins from a clean and pure country with modest ambitions.

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Please drink Reyka Vodka responsibly. Reyka Vodka, 40% Alc/Vol. (80 Proof) Distilled from grain. © 2024 William Grant & Sons. New York, NY. Takk! (That's "Thank You" in Icelandic.)

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6 Distillery Tours You Need to Book Now

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https://www.fyi.tv/food-drinks/six-distillery-tours-you-need-to-book-now

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March 28, 2024

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It’s official: booze is only getting better and better! Craft spirits are on the rise in record numbers , the booze industry in general is having a golden moment and famed distilleries are seeing more interest than ever before .

You can sample spirits, tour facilities and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of alcohol at distilleries across the globe. Check out our list of popular spirit makers with unique activities and attractions that you should book right away.

Just outside Guadalajara, Mexico, family-owned Jose Cuervo was founded in 1795 and is the oldest active distillery in Latin America. When tequila lovers visit, they board the Jose Cuervo Express, a booze train that offers an exciting way to experience the distillery. The train passes scenic agave fields before arriving in the town of Tequila for Jose Cuervo factory tours. It’s an all-day affair with food, live entertainment and tons of tequila sampling. http://cuervo.com http://www.josecuervoexpress.com

Celebrating its 325th anniversary this year, Ketel One produces vodka for both affluent and casual cocktail connoisseurs, and fans can get a comprehensive tour of its facilities at Nolet Distillery just 45 minutes outside of Amsterdam. Operated for 11 generations, the distillery is a major attraction in itself. The building is 325 years old, and it features the original coal-fired copper pot used for distillation. It’s also chockfull of Dutch artifacts and antiques, which makes the distillery a surprising gem of a museum. http://www.ketelone.com http://www.noletdistillery.com

Reyka Vodka Borgarnes, Iceland

Reyka Vodka in Iceland takes sustainability to a whole new level. Not only is the country’s first distillery completely geo-thermal, powered by nearby volcanoes, it also collects Arctic water from a spring that runs through a 4,000-year-old lava field (filtered by lava rock!). Surrounded by mountains, waterfalls and unspoiled terrain, Reyka Vodka may be the world’s most scenic distillery. http://reyka.com

Buffalo Trace Frankfort, Kentucky

The world-famous Bourbon Trails in Kentucky is among the best attractions within the state. Whiskey and bourbon-loving visitors follow the trail because of its deep history (and tastings, of course). Buffalo Trace distillery is reportedly the oldest continuously operating distillery in the country (according to what report?). It stands out from competition with multiple, complimentary tours (from hard hat tours of grain delivery, cooking, fermentation and distillation to tours of its National Historic Landmark homes and attractions dating back more than 200 years). Buffalo Trace is also reportedly haunted! In addition to bourbon-making tours, guides take visitors on a ghost tour to explore the sites with paranormal activities and supernatural sightings. https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com

Bundaberg Rum Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia

Rum may be native to the Caribbean but it’s been adopted in Bundaberg, Australia, where the Bundaberg Rum Distillery has been producing age-perfected rum since the 1970s (though the distillery has been around for more than 130 years). Visitors can create their own concoction by fusing rums with the Blend-Your-Own Rum (BYOR) Experience. Experts will guide rum enthusiasts in blending port, sherry, whiskey and bourbon from small barrels to make their own as a keepsake (or to drink on the spot). https://www.bundabergrum.com.au

Tequila Selecto Amatitan, Jalisco, Mexico

Small-batch tequila producer Tequila Selecto may be in the same region as the big guys when it comes to distribution, but it’s tucked away in the Amatitan Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by sprawling agave fields, the property itself is very unique. Peacocks roam the grounds, and a friendly house parrot greets visitors. Unlike most other surrounding distilleries, you can walk right into the agave fields, take shade under an ancient tree, ride a horse or play volleyball with the staff (including resident drag queen, Jorge). There’s also a vintage pick-up truck and tractor for visitor to ride. http://tequilaselecto.com.mx

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  1. Pure, Smooth, Breathtaking Reyka Vodka

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  5. Reyka Iceland Vodka

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COMMENTS

  1. Iceland's First Distillery is Volcano-Powered (And Stunning)

    The entire Reyka distillery is quite small, and thus, produces only small batches of 255 cases per 6-hour distillation. I.e., the Reyka vodka distillery is powered by the heat of volcanoes, and entirely emission-free. The whole process within the Reyka distillery is powered by clean energy, an admirable feat that yields a premium product.

  2. Reyka Vodka

    Our distillery is powered by geothermal energy from underground volcanoes. Not only is it environmentally friendly, it's fun to talk about at cocktail parties. How is Reyka Vodka made? We're glad you asked. Subscribe To The Puffin Post. ... Please drink Reyka Vodka responsibly. Reyka Vodka, 40% Alc/Vol. (80 Proof) Distilled from grain ...

  3. Touring the Reyka Vodka Distillery?

    We like to tour breweries on our vacations but haven't found too much information on Icelandic breweries as beer doesn't appear to be such a big thing there. While I've found the Reyka Vodka website, I can't seem to find any information on setting up a tour of the distillery. Anyone know if tours of the Reyka Vodka distillery is even available?

  4. Reyka Vodka May Have the Coolest Distiller on the Planet

    The Reyka bottle says on the label, "small batch vodka hand crafted in Iceland" and that claim is 100% true. Without a constant running still, Sigurosson makes each batch under his watchful ...

  5. Iceland Travel Guide With Gray Malin

    And that concludes the walking tour.. Reyka Distillery. Okay, full disclosure, this isn't open to the public. But! I have to share my experience because it'sreally toocool not to! Located about an hour out ofReykjavik, Reyka's distillery is an unassuming building. Inside, though it is home totheir precious vodka , which is crafted in a very ...

  6. Distillery Visit: Reyka Vodka

    But it is. 100 km from Reykjavík, in a relatively anonymous factory plant in the little town of Borganes, Reyka's vodka is being distilled and filtered through lava rock in a beautiful, bespoke copper Carter-Head still. One of only six in the world, and modelled after Hendrick's Gin's Carter-Head still of the very same design, Reyka's ...

  7. Sip Cocktails on Icelandic Glacier

    Reyka vodka introduces a unique concept: a bar on Iceland's Langjökull Glacier. ... Reyka boasts an emission-free distillery powered entirely by the area's volcanic activity. This production process led to the name "Reyka" (Ray-KUH) ... There are tons of exciting adventure tours in and around the ice floe!

  8. Reykjavik Distillery

    Established in 2009 Reykjavik Distillery is the first Icelandic distillery of its kind. As a family run, independent micro-distillery it is recognized as the vanguard of high quality crafted spirits. PO BOX 8715, 128 REYKJAVIK / Lónsbraut 6, 220.

  9. Reyka Vodka Review

    In 2005, looking to invest in the vodka category while also taking advantage of Iceland's environmental purity and geothermal resources, William Grant & Sons, the Scotland-based distiller and distributor behind some of the world's leading scotch brands, opened Iceland's first modern distillery and started production on Reyka Vodka.

  10. The First-ever Vodka Bar on a Glacier Is Opening in the ...

    The bar itself will be located at 64.565653°N, -20.024822°W, which is about 1,200 miles north in the Arctic Circle, according to Metro. This is also where Reyka sources its Arctic spring water ...

  11. Reyka Vodka

    Reyka's distillery is located in the town of Bogarnes on the west coast of Iceland. Barley grain spirit (barley and some wheat) is brought to them from Scotland where it is redistilled in a single distillation in a copper-lined Carter-Head still. Each batch produces about 255 cases and takes six hours to complete.

  12. Reyka Vodka Tours?

    450 reviews. 214 helpful votes. 5. Re: Reyka Vodka Tours? 6 years ago. Save. I sent an email to their website back in July 2016 asking about a possible tour in September 2016. I never heard back from them. Report inappropriate content.

  13. Reyka Vodka distillery

    Reyka Vodka comes from Iceland and is a top example of purity and skill in spirit making. This vodka is famous for its small-batch production and use of Iceland's natural gifts. ... The Reyka Experience Visiting the Reyka distillery is unique. They offer tours to show how they make vodka and Borgarnes' beauty. You can taste Reyka and see its ...

  14. The Ultimate Guide to Icelandic Liquor and Spirits

    A great way to get a better insight into the distilling process at Eimverk Distillery is on a unique 1-Hour distillery tour with tastings of Icelandic whiskey, gin & brennivin. 3. Björk Liqueur ... Reyka Vodka is a premium vodka that quickly garnered international acclaim from vodka enthusiasts. Reyka is created using sustainable energy and is ...

  15. Sip Icelandic vodka on top of a glacier

    Reyka Vodka, the only vodka distillery in Iceland, are now in the process of opening the first ever pop-up cocktail bar on an Icelandic glacier. The official opening is on 17 October, when a few specially chosen travellers will make their way up north to experience this drink of a lifetime.

  16. How Reyka Vodka Makes Vodka in Iceland

    Reyka Vodka has garnered a reputation as being one of the purest vodkas in the world. Of course, that's quite a distinction; one some more discernible boozehounds might find suspect. We traveled with the Reyka team to their distillery, located roughly an hour north of Reykjavík in the beautiful rural town of Borganes, to better understand the praise heaped on the label.

  17. Reyka Vodka

    Reyka is distilled in Borgarnes (say Bor-gan-ess), Iceland, a coastal village surrounded by rich natural resources. The air here is so clean, our CO2 levels are actually falling. Our master distiller is Þórður Sigurðsson, who is also the local fireman and policeman.

  18. 6 Distillery Tours You Need to Book Now

    Reyka Vodka Borgarnes, Iceland. Reyka Vodka in Iceland takes sustainability to a whole new level. Not only is the country's first distillery completely geo-thermal, powered by nearby volcanoes, it also collects Arctic water from a spring that runs through a 4,000-year-old lava field (filtered by lava rock!).

  19. Moscow Metro

    Photo #146 taken on June 03, 2012 during Moscow Metro tour with my Dear client from USA, Brandon Pelsmaeker. Next Previous 4 of 10 . About Me in Short. My name's Arthur Lookyanov, I'm a private tour guide, personal driver and photographer in Moscow, Russia. I work in my business and run my website Moscow-Driver.com from 2002.

  20. Manufacturers and suppliers of wholesale vodka

    ALEXANDRION GROUP ROMANIA. Description of activity: Alexandrion Group is a combination of history, tradition, experience and passion dating back to 1789. As a spirits and wines producer and brand creator, Alexandrion Group owns one of the biggest production facilities in South East Europe —The Alexandrion Distillery — as well as vineyards and a wine production plant.

  21. Iceland's First Distillery is Volcano-Powered (And Stunning)

    In the tiny coastal town of Borgarnes, Iceland, set against the stunning majesty of Mt. Hafnarfjall, lies Iceland's first distillery. Housed in a land of elves and trolls, it's no surprise that Reyka Icelandic vodka is derived through somewhat mystical means. Reyka harnesses Iceland's pristine, rugged terrain to create exceptionally pure, crisp vodka — the kind of stuff that could come ...

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    Moscow has some of the most well-decorated metro stations in the world but visitors don't always know which are the best to see. This guided tour takes you to the city's most opulent stations, decorated in styles ranging from neoclassicism to art deco and featuring chandeliers and frescoes, and also provides a history of (and guidance on how to use) the Moscow metro system.

  23. Manufacturers and suppliers of wholesale liqueurs

    G.M.G. BROTHERS LLC. Description of activity: G.M.G. BROTHERS LLC offers 9 types of fruit vodka from the LIAREV company, made using a homemade technique, according to centuries-old traditions, out of fruit grown in mountainous and sunny Armenia. No additives or artificial flavors are used in the process. We have rare vodkas, such as European wild pear, white cherry, sea buckthorn and raspberry ...