Boyd & Blair, Potato Vodka NV

Dr. William Blair: A pioneering ophthalmologist and homeopathic doctor, he knew the value of hard work, and the rewards of relaxation. Prentiss’ great grandfather, Dr. Blair, too was a spirited optimist and a man proud of his accomplishments

James Boyd Rafferty: To James Boyd Rafferty, the glass was always half full. It was Boyd’s hard work ethic, uncompromising principles and can-do attitude that inspired his son-in-law Barry to create this great vodka with Prentiss.

Prentiss and Barry, we’re two guys with a passion for great vodka. Our dream was to create a classic vodka – one made the way we believe vodka is meant to be made. With potatoes, in small, single batches. And we believe in quality over quantity. That’s why we make every single batch by hand, literally. There are no computers, no automated processes. From creating our own potato mash to sealing and signing every bottle, we do it all. The result is a classic vodka meant to be savored one sip at a time.

For every batch of vodka produced in a single still, there are three parts. The first part is known as the “heads”. These toxic, bitter alcohols are discarded. The “hearts” flow next. We collect these naturally sweet spirits one batch at a time. The final part is the “tails”. Most distillers recycle these musty alcohols to increase their yield. Not Boyd & Blair. We bottle only the hearts. Named after the owners' fathers, each bottle of Boyd & Blair is signed by Barry and then filled, corked, and dipped in wax by hand.