Deep Eddy Lemon

Deep Eddy Lemon is a flavored vodka from Texas, bottled at 35% ABV (70 proof). That is a few points under the 40% of a standard unflavored vodka, and it makes the spirit a little softer and easier to sip. The lemon flavor is the main feature. Expect a tart, bright citrus profile with some sweetness, closer to lemonade than to the sharp peel oils of a dry, zest-driven spirit. The listing doesn't name the base ingredient, so we won't claim one. The distillery describes the base as distilled and filtered to a clean, smooth finish, which leaves the lemon front and center. The lower strength matters when you mix. A drink built on this bottle will taste a bit less spirity than the same recipe made with a 40% vodka. If you want the same punch, add a small extra splash, or just enjoy the lighter result. Because the lemon is already in the bottle, you can use less fresh juice and less sugar than you would with a neutral vodka. The classic fit is a lemon drop martini. Shake it with ice and a little orange liqueur or simple syrup, strain it into a chilled coupe or martini glass, and add a sugared rim if you like. A Moscow Mule also works well. Ginger beer's spice sits comfortably against the lemon, and a lime wedge keeps it from tasting one-note. A Cosmopolitan made with this bottle will lean more citrus-forward and less cranberry-dominant. In a Bloody Mary the lemon adds a bright lift that suits a heavily seasoned mix, though it will taste a little different from the usual plain-vodka version. An Espresso Martini is the weakest match, since lemon and coffee clash more than they complement. Most people will be happier using a neutral vodka for that one. Beyond cocktails, the simplest uses are the best. Pour it over ice with soda water and a lemon slice, or top it with iced tea or lemonade for a quick Texas-style highball. Serve it well chilled, either from the freezer in a small glass or over ice in a rocks glass. For martini-style drinks, chill the glass beforehand so the drink stays cold to the last sip.