Apologies if this has already come up (link me to the appropriate thread(s)!). I searched, read through Will's column and am still left wondering. The vodka column was great... should the vodka be mixed w/ tomato juice and spices.

I'm in search of the cheapest vodka (or gin) one can buy that won't wreck one's head/GI tract/sanity.

I'm asking for a couple coming up on their 50th anniversary. They have been very much struggling financially and miss their evening drink. The husband is very finicky and the wife complains about a headache as soon as she thinks her drink was less than premium. Despite those potential complications, I know they will embrace any recommendations from SE.

From what I understand and have observed, said liquor they buy will be mixed w/ tonic or vermouth so please take that into consideration.

Many, many thanks in advance. I just want them to be happy because they deserve it. Too bad $ restricts it all.

So can you help, SE?