Crystal Head

Crystal Head Vodka was founded by actor Dan Aykroyd and artist John Alexander in 2008 with a simple premise: produce an ultra-premium additive-free vodka and put it in a skull-shaped bottle. The skull, based on the legend of the 13 crystal skulls said to hold mystical powers, became one of the most recognizable bottle designs in the spirits industry.

Every Crystal Head expression is produced without additives — no glycerol, citrus oils, or sugars are added after distillation. The Original is distilled four times from Canadian corn and filtered seven times, including three times through Herkimer diamond crystals. Onyx is distilled from Blue Weber agave from Jalisco rather than grain, producing a fundamentally different character. Aurora uses English wheat and is distilled in an 18th-century copper pot still in Newfoundland for a distinctly different flavor profile.

The Crystal Head Lineup

Crystal Head Original — Quadruple-distilled from Canadian peaches and cream corn. Filtered seven times, including through Herkimer diamonds. Clean, neutral, and smooth — the signature expression in the iconic clear skull bottle. Additive-free. Crystal Head Onyx — Distilled from Blue Weber agave from Jalisco, Mexico rather than grain — a fundamentally different base producing a slightly earthier, more textured character. Presented in a distinctive black matte skull bottle. Crystal Head Aurora — Distilled from English wheat in an 18th-century copper pot still in Newfoundland, filtered through Herkimer diamonds, presented in an iridescent bottle inspired by the northern lights.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crystal Head Vodka made from?

It depends on the expression. The Original uses Canadian corn (peaches and cream variety). Onyx uses Blue Weber agave from Jalisco, making it more similar to a tequila base than a standard grain vodka. Aurora uses English wheat. All three are additive-free and filtered through Herkimer diamond crystals.

Is Crystal Head Vodka gluten-free?

The Original (corn) and Onyx (agave) are naturally gluten-free by base ingredient. Aurora uses wheat, so those with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity should choose Original or Onyx. All three are additive-free and kosher certified.

What is the skull bottle made of?

Crystal-clear glass (Original and Aurora) or matte black glass (Onyx). The bottle design is based on the legend of the 13 crystal skulls. After finishing the vodka, the skull bottle is food-safe and widely repurposed as a decanter, decorative piece, or Halloween prop.