Over 180 cubic feet per second of cold, clear spring water gushes out of the limestone ground on a remote ranch located in Mason County. Flanked on either side by steep canyons and miles of relatively untouched Hill Country ranchland, this artesian spring has been a destination and a valuable commodity for generations.

Getting there is no easy feat: drive miles of dirt roads, traverse over low water crossings, drive a little bit more and you’ll eventually arrive at the source of this pristine water source.

The importance of this wellspring cannot be understated – not only is it a major tributary to the James River, a relatively unknown feeder to the Llano River, and a valuable source of drinking water and habitat for the variety of local wildlife inhabitants – but it’s also the most important ingredient for Goodnight Loving’s award-winning Texas vodka.

Vodka is one of the most popular spirits in the world. Its versatility allows fans to add it to a mixer of their choice, or if you’re brave enough, it can be enjoyed on its own. But not all vodkas are created equal. Goodnight Loving’s vodka stands out for its unique blend of family values and natural spring water, making it a top choice for those who appreciate a high-quality and deeply-rooted spirit.

The company was founded by a father and son team with one simple message: Goodnight Loving is a Texas vodka, made in Texas, for Texans. Originally, the family thought of using the water source to make a beer, but after testing the water, it was determined this 1,000-year-old spring would be best suited for a topnotch spirit. 

What sets Goodnight Loving Vodka apart is the use of natural spring water sourced from this off-the-beaten- path ranch in the Texas Hill Country that has been owned by the family since the 1970s. The vodka process begins with this artesian spring water that has been filtered through the layers of limestone that are a prominent feature of the region, giving it a unique and distinctive taste. This pure, old-living water is combined with the finest grain-neutral spirits and distilled to create a clean, and crisp vodka that is perfect for any occasion. The water is the true celebrity in this spirit producing a seriously smooth and giving the vodka a slightly sweet finish. 

Goodnight Loving Vodka has received numerous awards and accolades, including a Platinum Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2024, no other Texas-made SPIRIT has ever won this honor in the competition’s 23-year history. They have also won double gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2022 and Best Vodka and Double Gold at the John Barleycorn Awards in 2021. The unique blend of natural spring water and family principles has earned it a reputation as one of the best vodkas on the market.

This vodka is more than just a highly acclaimed spirit; it’s a family-owned and operated business that values the land, the spring and its surrounding waterways that have been a gathering point for generations. Even the name, Goodnight Loving was inspired by a beloved great-uncle who had a pension for western movies and Texas’ traditions and heritage.

During the summer months, most often you can find the family swimming and fishing in the James River, and enjoying the cool, clear waters of this spring’s remarkable constant flow. The ranch has been a destination for the family to spend cherished time together reveling in the great outdoors including hunting whitetail and turkey in the fall and admiring the wildflowers in the spring that blanket the hills of this historic family ranch.

The father and son team behind Goodnight Loving Vodka have a deep commitment to protecting and taking care of the spring. Brush and non-native species have been removed from the wellspring to help to ensure the quality, integrity, and existence of this spring. Both father and son feel a deep responsibility for taking care of this prolific water source that has been at constant flow for over 40 years. The importance of this spring for the land and wildlife that depend on it is not taken lightly.

Goodnight Loving Vodka is more than just a spirit. It’s a reflection of the family’s passion for their Texas heritage, their commitment to the land and water, and their desire to create a high-quality product. The use of natural spring water and the family’s dedication to their family ranch and the spring make this vodka a standout in the spirits industry. So next time you’re looking for a high-quality vodka, consider Good Night Loving Vodka and enjoy a taste of Texas.

Sidebar:

GOODNIGHT CHILTON

2 oz Goodnight Loving Vodka

1.5 oz juice of two lemons

5-6 oz soda water

Kosher salt

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Rim a tall glass with salt and fill it with ice. Add vodka and lemon juice, then top with soda water. Stir gently and serve.