More out of convenience than planning, I found myself with an opportunity to
conduct my aforementioned taste test on various see through spirits. I did
not amass a statistically significant sample size; in fact, the number of
participants was one.

Finding myself in a PA State Store to pick up some bubbly, I took the
opportunity to pick up small bottles of Grey Goose & Stolichnaya. Along
with the Luksosova (and Popov rotgut) on hand, I figured I had enough
variety for a test.

SWMBO poured a small quantity into several nearly identical shot glasses,
and I tasted each one, with a small piece of whole wheat bread in between.

First taste was very smooth and clean; nice warmth, no nasty aftertaste.
Very nice. I liked it.
Second glass was also smooth, also clean, different from but not much
different from the first. I liked it also.
Third glass was distinctly different from the first two. Strong taste,
strong aftertaste. More of a bite to let you know you were drinking
straight spirits. (SWMBO also tried the test, but knew which was which.
She used the term "paint thinner" for the Luksosova, but that's a bit harsh.
It's not that bad, just not as smooth as the other two.)

My preference was in the same order as I tasted. Not surprisingly, that was
also in their respective order of cost. Although it was borderline, I did
like the Grey Goose slightly better than the Stoli, but the difference was
very minor and did not justify the additional price tag IMO. I will
henceforth banish the Luksosova to Bloody Mary duty and go buy myself a
full-sized bottle of Stoli.

wayno, you're right again.

Joe F.