Spirits Explained

Crystal Head Onyx: An Original Vodka Experience

Jordhan Woods, ReserveBar Staff Writer

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Few brands have disrupted the industry as quickly as Crystal Head Vodka. Owners Dan Aykroyd and John Alexander have done this by crafting this spirit for those who think differently and without limitations. Not only does this Canadian-made brand use the highest-quality ingredients to create unique expressions of ultra-premium vodka, but they also ensure the vodka is completely additive-free. This multi-award-winning vodka is breaking barriers and doing so without compromise.

DISTILLING AGAVE VODKA

Crystal Head Vodka has three unique vodkas in their lineup: Original, Aurora, and the Onyx. The Original is crafted from locally sourced Canadian corn and distilled four times into a neutral grain spirit, while Aurora is an additive-free vodka that uses the highest-quality English wheat. The aforementioned vodkas follow a more traditional distillation process, while the newest expression, Onyx, leads the charge as one of the first agave-based vodkas to be offered in the spirits industry.

Onyx is a distinctive vodka distilled from Blue Weber agave and sourced from a single farm in Jalisco, Mexico. “Typically, tequila is distilled via double copper pot distillation,” says Crystal Head Brand Ambassador, William Cavallo. “We then run the distillate through a column still to reach 96% ABV, allowing it to be legally considered a vodka distillate. The liquid is then transferred to our distillery in Canada in 1000-liter stainless steel containers where it is blended with the purest water from Newfoundland to reach 40% ABV. Like all Crystal Head expressions, our final distinctive touch is to filter seven times, three of which through layers of semi-precious crystals known as Herkimer diamonds.”

Although it may seem complicated, by sourcing agave in Mexico and blending it in Newfoundland, Canada, Crystal Head takes advantage of both the highest quality agave in Mexico and the purest waters in the north. It is filtered through over 10,000 Herkimer diamonds, elevating the final product to become a liquid like no other. Onyx has the taste of tequila on the front of the palate and vodka on the back. You’re able to taste the warmth and sweetness of agave, while still enjoying the velvety smooth body of vodka. And just like all the expressions under the Crystal Head umbrella, Onyx does not contain any additives, oils, or sugars.

You will find Onyx in the signature Crystal Head skull-shaped bottle with luxurious black finishes and a matching crest debossed cap. It was designed with a creative spirit and is dedicated to the powerful warrior crystal, Onyx. For those unfamiliar, the black onyx crystal holds a connection to the earth with its protective energy and combines all colors of the spectrum into one. Onyx is said to absorb negativity — the darker the stone, the more power it holds.

CRAFTING A NEW EXPERIENCE

According to founder Dan Aykroyd, Crystal Head Onyx aims to bridge the gap between vodka and tequila to create a new experience for consumers to sip or create cocktails with. Enthusiasts will note fresh green grass, white pepper, and hints of citrus on the nose. After taking in the aromatics, we encourage you to take a sip and take in the touch of spice and sweetness, which develops into the unmistakable, earthy grip of agave.

In traditional vodka cocktails, the mixer is typically the star of the show, while tequila cocktails are usually complex from the start. Vodka is clean and creamy, and tequila is smoked and rich. Onyx’s dynamic spirit allows your favorite notes of vodkas to shine while also delivering the classic tequila punch. Enhance your fruit juices, club sodas, and syrups with the unique taste of Onyx.

Here are a few recipe suggestions to get you acquainted with this unique spirit: