Vodka is the world's most popular spirit — and for good reason. It's endlessly versatile, works in everything from martinis to Moscow mules, and comes in a huge range of styles and price points. Whether you're stocking a home bar on a budget or looking for something premium, here are our top vodka picks at Buffalo House Liquor & Wines.
What Makes a Good Vodka?
Despite the old myth that "all vodka tastes the same," there are real differences. Good vodka should be smooth, clean, and free of harsh burn. The base ingredient matters — vodkas are made from grain, potatoes, corn, or even grapes, each giving a slightly different character. Distillation and filtration methods also play a big role in the final product.
Best Budget Vodka (Under $25)
You don't need to spend a fortune for a quality vodka. These bottles punch well above their price point — perfect for cocktails, mixed drinks, or even sipping if you're looking to save.
Staff pick: Absolut is a reliable choice that's been a bartender favorite for decades. Clean, smooth, and works perfectly in any cocktail.
Best Flavored Vodkas
Flavored vodkas make cocktail-making effortless. No need for syrups or extra ingredients — just mix with soda, tonic, or juice for an easy drink that tastes great. The Absolut line is our favorite for natural-tasting flavors that aren't artificial or overly sweet.
Absolut Citron
$23.99
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Absolut Peach
$23.99
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Absolut Lime
$2.99
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Absolut Mandrin
$2.99
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Ready-to-Drink Vodka Options
Don't feel like mixing? These ready-to-drink options are perfect for parties, picnics, or a casual night in. Just chill and pour.
Absolut Ocean Spray Cranberry
$10.99
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Absolut Variety Pack
$19.99
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-196 Vodka Seltzer
$19.99
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4 Classic Vodka Cocktails
Moscow Mule
2 oz vodka, 4 oz ginger beer, 0.5 oz lime juice. Serve in a copper mug with ice and a lime wedge. Refreshing, spicy, and endlessly satisfying.
Vodka Martini
2.5 oz vodka, 0.5 oz dry vermouth, stirred with ice and strained. Garnish with a lemon twist or olive. Clean and classic.
Cosmopolitan
1.5 oz citrus vodka, 1 oz cranberry juice, 0.5 oz triple sec, 0.5 oz lime juice. Shake with ice and strain into a martini glass.
Screwdriver
2 oz vodka, 5 oz fresh orange juice over ice. The simplest cocktail in the book — and still one of the best.
Free delivery in Buffalo: Order any of these vodkas and we'll deliver them to your door the same day — free, with no minimums. We deliver to Buffalo, Kenmore, Tonawanda, Amherst, Williamsville, and more.
Best Vodka for Cocktails
Not all vodkas work the same in cocktails. Here is what we recommend depending on what you are mixing:
Best Vodka for Martinis
A martini demands a clean, premium vodka with minimal harshness. Our top picks:
- Grey Goose — Smooth and refined with subtle wheat notes. The classic martini vodka.
- Belvedere — Polish rye vodka with a creamy texture and vanilla finish.
- Ketel One — Dutch-distilled with a crisp, citrusy profile that works beautifully in a dirty martini.
Best Vodka for Mixed Drinks
When you are making Moscow Mules, Vodka Sodas, or Screwdrivers, you want a vodka that is clean and affordable:
- Tito's Handmade Vodka — Our best seller for a reason. Smooth, versatile, and reasonably priced.
- Smirnoff No. 21 — A reliable mixer that does not break the bank.
- New Amsterdam — Smooth and slightly sweet, great in fruity cocktails.
Best Flavored Vodka
Flavored vodkas add personality to your cocktails without extra mixers:
- Absolut Citron — The original flavored vodka, perfect in Cosmos and lemon drops.
- Stoli Vanilla — Rich vanilla flavor for dessert cocktails and espresso martinis.
- Deep Eddy Cranberry — Real cranberry flavor, great with soda water.
Not sure which vodka is right for you? Our team at Buffalo House has tasted them all and can recommend the perfect bottle for your favorite cocktails, your budget, or just sipping on the rocks.
How to Store Vodka
Vodka does not need to be refrigerated, but many people prefer it chilled. Keeping vodka in the freezer is perfectly fine — it will not freeze due to its alcohol content and it makes for a smoother pour. Once opened, vodka lasts indefinitely if stored in a cool, dark place.
Buy Vodka in Buffalo, NY
Buffalo House Liquor & Wines carries over 100 vodka brands at our store at 1230 Colvin Blvd, Buffalo, NY 14223. From budget-friendly options to ultra-premium bottles, we have the vodka you are looking for. Shop online for free same-day delivery on orders over $49.
