Sip, Sip Pass: Bong-Inspired Vodka Makes a Splash

(Photo: Illadelph Spirits)

Illadelph Glass, a Philadelphia-based bong designer, is bubbling up its inaugural liquor release in partnership with City Distilling.

In an apparent dream come true for stoners across the East Coast, the brand has unveiled a triple-distilled organic wheat vodka sold inside a bong-shaped decanter. The vodka represents the first foray from Illadelph Spirits, which aims to orient the high-end glassware maker toward the lucrative alcohol market.

Emphasis on the “high end”; browsing through the brand’s website, you’ll find products ranging from $380 to nearly $3,000. In addition to custom pieces inspired by Michael Jordan and the Greek pantheon, Illadelph has its own art gallery on the Philadelphia waterfront where its bongs are commemorated like ancient relics. The brand touts a laundry list of new technologies it has introduced to the industry including sci-fi-sounding doohickies like the “coil condenser” and “up-stem ash tray catcher.”

In contrast to the brand’s typical catalog, Illadelph Vodka will retail at a budget-friendly $24.99.

“We’re beyond excited to take the Illadelph brand to new heights,” founder and CEO Irene Cutler said in a news release. “Creating a vodka of stellar quality was our top priority. Illadelph’s reputation as a legendary, well-established brand with a cult following gives us the confidence to stand out in a crowded market. We aim to cultivate a loyal following and look forward to introducing additional spirits in the future.”

Given the catch-all Illadelph Spirits brand name, we imagine the glassware designer may have more alcohol releases in store down the road. From the looks of it, Illadelph already has a few options at its fingertips.

City Distilling — known locally for its range of vodkas, gins, hard teas and pre-mixed cocktails — is located an hour’s drive north of downtown Philadelphia. Housed inside a former door factory, the company was opened in 2020 with the tagline “80 Proof, 100% Truth.” Those hoping to find Illadelph Vodka can pick it up exclusively at the distillery.

“I am thrilled to carry forward the Illadelph lifestyle brand’s legacy by stepping into the spirits industry,” Illadelph Spirits Creative Directo Luca Falso remarked. “The opportunity to create Illadelph Vodka allowed us to blend our artistic roots with a high-quality product that complements our existing brand.”

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