After spending seven years conducting research and development, Jason Momoa and Blaine Halverson, launched Meili (MAY-lee) Vodka in 2023. It’s a premium spirit known for its exceptional quality and a refined flavor, allowing it not only to be used in a cocktail but also sipped neat.
Origins and Production
With sustainability in mind, and being conscious of its carbon footprint, Meili Vodka is crafted using local grains and pure water from an ancient aquifer in Montana. And its only distilled once, incredibly unique for a vodka, however it results in its smooth, clean taste.
“It’s this beautiful water source that comes off this limestone shelf – 300-million-year-old aquifer. It looked like Avatar – I had never seen so much life at a water source, where there’s snow everywhere. We come to find what makes it so special is that there’s no sodium in that water. The salt is really what takes away some of the notes that you taste in that from our grains, and it’s high in calcium and sulfur. That’s what gives it that unique taste.” Jason Momoa
The bottles are 100% post-consumer recycled glass, meaning no two are the same. And in 2024 the bottles will be made in the USA, meaning Meili’s entire production will be US-based.
Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
Meili Vodka is celebrated for its subtle vanilla notes and a hint of citrus and peppery spiciness, making it incredibly versatile. If not enjoying neat (suggestion: enjoy it room temperature), a popular choice is the classic with a Meili inspired name called Tana Mule:
**Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Meili Vodka
- 1/2-ounce lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 4 ounces ginger beer
- Ice
- Lime wedge and mint sprig (for garnish)
**Instructions:
- Fill a copper mug with ice.
- Add Meili Vodka and lime juice.
- Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and a mint sprig.
The Tana Mule combines Meili Vodka’s crispness with the spicy kick of ginger beer and the tang of lime, offering a refreshing experience that highlights the vodka’s smoothness. During its launch tour, bartenders opted to use Meili in margaritas, instead of tequila, to highlight its unique flavor profile.
Add Meili Vodka to Your Portfolio Today
With its growing popularity, and winning gold in several vodka and spirits world competitions, Meile Vodka continues to shine in the liquor market. Wish to learn more about Meili and our spirits portfolio? Contact your local Columbia Distributing rep or local office in Washington today.