Stateside Vodka, crafted by Federal Distilling in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, really is a stand-out option in an overcrowded vodka market. Since they have a unique production process and a range of products including vodka, vodka sodas, and canned hard teas, Stateside Vodka has been making waves among spirit enthusiasts! 

Today, we’re going to chat about what makes this brand special, highlighting some of their products and what critics think about their different options. Let’s get started, shall we?

Who Makes Stateside Vodka?

Federal Distilling, located at 1700 N. Hancock St. in Philadelphia, produces the base of all of Stateside Vodka’s products – their signature vodka. 

Federal Distilling in 2015

Back in 2015, Philadelphia welcomed a new addition to its distillery scene with the opening of Federal Distilling in the Kensington neighborhood. The distillery, located at 161 Cecil B. Moore Avenue, was founded by Clement Pappas and brothers Matt and Bryan Quigley. Matt Quigley, who had completed a distiller apprenticeship through the University of Michigan, led the distilling operations. 

Their first product was Stateside Vodka, made with GMO-free corn from Missouri and distilled seven times. The vodka, infused with a blend of minerals, was produced using a German-made Müller still. Initially, the distillery focused on this flagship product, priced at $27.99 for a 750 ML bottle. 

The team at Federal Distilling, all avid vodka enthusiasts, aimed to create the best vodka in Philly. For more details, you can read the full article here.

The Federal Distilling Tasting Room: 2016

In 2016, Federal Distilling opened the Federal Distilling Room in Kensington at 1700 N. Hancock Street. This new addition offered a unique experience with a cocktail bar and tasting room, featuring a vodka-centric menu, small plates, and distillery tours. 

The cocktail menu included original creations like The Cat’s Pajamas and The Cleanse, all based around Stateside Vodka. The space was also available for group events and provided a glimpse into Philadelphia’s local spirits scene.

Federal Distilling Now

Although there’s not an abundance of detailed information available about Federal Distilling online (they don’t have a website as of January 2024), it’s clear that they have a fantastic product; Stateside Vodka is high-rated, as are the canned cocktails it’s mixed into. It seems as though Federal Distilling may be in the process of rebranding as Stateside Urbancraft Vodka, though it’s unclear.

Their Tasting Room & Bar is still located at 1700 N Hancock Street.

What Makes Stateside Urbancraft Vodka Special?

Stateside Vodka is hand-distilled seven times, which is a testament to their dedication to crafting a refined and pure spirit. This meticulous distillation process is conducted using a custom copper pot still, ensuring a high level of control over the final product.

Grain Choice

Another key aspect that sets Stateside Vodka apart is its use of 100% US-grown, GMO-free corn. This choice of base ingredient not only supports local agriculture but also imparts a subtle sweetness to the vodka, contributing to its smooth and clean finish. 

Mineral Water

An interesting aspect of their production is the unique proofing water they use, which was perfected over two years of experimentation. This water is treated through a custom filtration system, resulting in an H2O formula enriched with a range of minerals, including electrolytes. This special attention to the water quality further enhances the vodka’s purity and taste.

Speciality Finishing

After distillation, the vodka undergoes a proprietary finishing process that includes steps involving carbon, oxygen, and ultra-cold filtration. 

Certifications and Dietary Specifications

Stateside Vodka, which is certified gluten-free and OU™ Kosher, is free from sugar and carbohydrates, aligning with modern dietary preferences.

Stateside Vodka’s Spirits & Canned Cocktails

1. Their Base Vodka

Stateside Urbancraft Vodka is a premium spirit known for its mild and smooth characteristics. It offers a subtle aroma of cracked pepper and saffron and a flavor profile that includes notes of creme-filled cookies, making it versatile for cocktails, neat, or on the rocks.

2. Vodka Sodas

The vodka soda range from Stateside includes flavors such as Black Cherry, Pineapple, Lemon Cucumber Mint, and Orange. Each flavor brings a unique taste experience, combining the smoothness of Stateside Vodka with refreshing soda.

3. Canned Hard Teas

The canned hard teas, like the Stateside Surfside Vodka + Iced Tea, offer a low-calorie, ready-to-drink cocktail option. These beverages are noted for their juicy and smooth style, with flavors that are reminiscent of traditional iced tea, lemon twist, and toast.

Stateside Vodka Reviews

Critics have praised Stateside Vodka for its quality and taste. Here are some of the reviews that they’ve gotten for their products:

Wine Enthusiast

The Urbancraft Vodka received a rating of 88/100 from Wine Enthusiast, indicating a very good quality spirit. It’s described as having a neutral scent and a soft, silky palate with hints of cucumber and almond. 

Drinkhacker

Drinkhacker gave Stateside Urbancraft Vodka a 9.5/10, highlighting its balanced nature and suitability for both neat consumption and as a base for cocktails. 

Tastings.com

The range of Stateside Vodka sodas and teas also received positive reviews, with the Surfside Vodka + Iced Tea earning a gold medal and a 91/100 rating from Tastings.com, and the Pineapple Vodka Hard Soda being described as a “summery, beach side tropical island in a can.”

Pairings for Stateside Vodka’s Lineup

If you’re looking for some great pairings to go along with your Stateside haul, here are a bunch of options for you!

Base Spirit – Stateside Vodka

When pairing food with Stateside Vodka, its smooth, subtle flavors work well with a variety of dishes. The vodka’s mild taste, with hints of creme and a slight peppery note, makes it a great companion for seafood, particularly light, fresh options like sushi or grilled fish. Its smoothness also complements cream-based pasta dishes, balancing the richness without overpowering the flavors.

Sodas – Stateside Vodka Sodas

The flavored vodka sodas, with their unique and refreshing tastes, pair delightfully with casual, light fare. The citrusy notes in the Lemon Cucumber Mint and Orange varieties are perfect with salads, grilled vegetables, or light chicken dishes. The Pineapple and Black Cherry flavors, with their fruity and slightly sweet profiles, enhance the taste of barbecue, spicy foods, or tropical-themed dishes.

Teas – Stateside Canned Hard Teas

Stateside’s canned hard teas, particularly the Surfside Vodka + Iced Tea, offer a relaxed, refreshing option that goes well with outdoor, summer dishes. They pair excellently with picnic foods like sandwiches, wraps, or fried chicken. Their light, tea-based character also makes them a good match for Asian cuisine, complementing the flavors of Thai or Chinese takeout.

10 Cocktails to Mix Up With Stateside Urbancraft Vodka:

When you think about vodka, you usually envision cocktails galore! Vodka is a neutral spirit that basically can go in anything. However, we’ve selected some cocktails that will help Stateside Vodka’s unique characteristics shine. So, grab your shaker and make some cocktails!

1. Classic Martini

Mix 2 ½ oz Stateside Vodka with ½ oz dry vermouth and garnish with an olive or lemon twist. The smoothness and unique character of their vodka make a perfectly balanced martini.

2. Moscow Mule

Combine 1 ½ oz Stateside Vodka, ½ oz lime juice, and 4 oz ginger beer in a copper mug. The vodka’s subtle spice notes add depth to this refreshing drink. Garnish with a lime wedge.

3. Vodka Tonic:

A simple mix of 2 oz Stateside Vodka and 4 oz tonic water, garnished with a lime wedge. The drink’s crispness complements the vodka’s mild flavor. Some people like to add lime juice or another type of citrus juice to add more flavor, but you shouldn’t need it with Stateside Vodka.

4. Cosmopolitan

Blend 2 oz Stateside Vodka with ¾ oz cranberry juice, ½ oz Cointreau, and 1 ½ tsp lime juice. This classic cocktail is a great showcase for the vodka’s smooth character. Garnish with a lime wedge.

5. Bloody Mary

Mix 1 ½ oz Stateside Vodka with 6 oz tomato juice, 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce, 1 dash hot sauce, and whatever spices you like. The vodka’s creamy notes soften the cocktail’s bold flavors. Garnish with a celery stalk.

6. White Russian

Combine 2 oz Stateside Vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, and 1 oz cream. The vodka’s creaminess enhances this rich, decadent drink.

7. Lemon Drop Martini

Shake 1 ½ oz Stateside Vodka with ¾ oz lemon juice, ½ oz Triple Sec, and ½ oz simple syrup, served in a sugar-rimmed glass. The vodka’s citrus notes shine in this sweet and tangy cocktail. Garnish with a lemon drop or a lemon wedge.

8. Sea Breeze

Mix 1 ½  oz Stateside Vodka with 4 oz cranberry and 1 oz grapefruit juices and ice. The drink’s fruity flavors are a great match for the vodka’s subtle sweetness. Garnish with a lime wedge.

9. Vodka Gimlet

Shake 2 oz Stateside Vodka with ½ oz lime juice and ½ oz simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Garnish with a lime wedge. The vodka’s smoothness makes this classic cocktail particularly enjoyable.

10. Screwdriver

Simply mix Stateside Vodka with orange juice (about a 1:4 ratio). The vodka’s mild flavor pairs well with the sweetness of the juice, making for a refreshing drink. Garnish with an orange slice.

Where to Buy Stateside Vodka’s Products

Since the brand’s opening in 2015, they’ve seen great growth. Their products are now sold in over 2,000 retail locations across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware, and the company has plans to expand further. Luckily, Stateside Vodka’s products are also available for purchase directly on their website!

Note: Remember that not all states allow delivery of alcoholic beverages. Keep this in mind before you go browse their online selection.

Distillery Nearby: Discover More Gems Like Stateside Vodka and Federal Distilling

As you’ve seen with Stateside Vodka and Federal Distilling, the world of artisan spirits is rich with hidden treasures! Each local distillery has its unique story, process, and flavors waiting to be discovered. If Stateside’s smooth, handcrafted vodka has piqued your interest, there’s more to explore. 

Browse our distillery directory today to find more unique, local distilleries near you →