Reyka Vodka is a premium vodka distilled in Iceland using renewable energy. While several distilled spirits have employed pure Icelandic waters in their production, Reyka (Ray-KUH) takes complete advantage of the country's pristine natural resources. It was the first to be distilled and bottled in the country and boasts an emission-free distillery that relies on the area's volcanic activity. While a "green" vodka sounds nice, that is not all it has going for it. Reyka is, without a doubt, one of the smoothest vodkas you will taste. It is an absolute pleasure to sip on its own and reasonably priced, so it's perfect for cocktails, too.

What Is Reyka Vodka Made From?

Amidst the clean air of the village of Borgarnes on the western coast of Iceland sits the distillery where Reyka Vodka comes together. In the shadows of the majestic Mt. Hafnarfjall, the entire operation is run by the abundant geothermal heat of the land. This led to the naming of the spirit: Reyka is an ancient Icelandic word for "steam" or "smoke."

Reyka Vodka is distilled from barley and wheat. The key to its superior smoothness is glacial water sourced from Grabok Spring, which runs through a 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.

Produced in small batches, Reyka is distilled in a Carter-Head still. One of only a few stills of its kind in the world, the copper helps retain the vodka's cleanliness. Unlike so many other vodkas that promote countless distillations, there is no need for more than one trip through this still. As a finishing touch, the vodka is filtered through the same lava rock that purifies the water. It is bottled at 40 percent alcohol by volume (ABV, 80 proof).

First released in 2005, Reyka Vodka is backed by a notable lineage in the liquor industry. William Grant & Sons is a Scottish company known for creating great brands like the iconic scotches from The Glenfiddich and The Balvenie, as well as the groundbreaking Hendrick's Gin.