Au Vodka Original 1.5L Magnum vs 70cl Bottle: Which Size Saves You More?

When it comes to stocking your home bar or choosing a gift for a vodka enthusiast, bottle size matters more than you might think. Au Vodka, the ultra-premium British brand known for its smooth, triple-distilled spirit and iconic gold bottles, offers its classic Original flavour in two popular formats: the standard 70cl bottle and the impressive 1.5L Magnum. While both contain the same award-winning liquid, the choice between them can impact everything from cost per serve to how long the bottle lasts on your shelf.

In this detailed comparison, we'll examine the Au Vodka Original 1.5L Magnum vs 70cl bottle to help you decide which size saves you more money, fits your hosting needs, and offers the best overall value. Whether you're planning a party, looking for a standout gift, or simply want to maximise your vodka budget, understanding the differences between these two sizes is essential.

Understanding the Two Sizes: 70cl vs 1.5L Magnum

The standard 70cl bottle (700ml) is the most common size for premium spirits worldwide. It's convenient, easy to handle, and fits comfortably on any bar shelf or in a standard drinks cabinet. Au Vodka's 70cl Original bottle is a classic choice for personal consumption, small gatherings, or as a thoughtful gift. Its sleek, gold-foiled design makes it instantly recognisable and highly giftable.

The 1.5L Magnum, on the other hand, is a statement piece. Holding more than double the volume of a standard bottle (1,500ml vs 700ml), it's designed for parties, celebrations, and serious vodka lovers who want to avoid frequent restocking. The larger format also often comes with a slightly lower price per millilitre, making it an attractive option for those who consume vodka regularly or entertain often.

• 70cl bottle: 700ml of premium vodka, ideal for personal use or as a gift.
• 1.5L Magnum: 1,500ml of vodka, perfect for parties, large events, or bulk buying.
• Both contain the same Au Vodka Original recipe – triple-distilled British wheat vodka.

Price per ml: Which Bottle Offers Better Value?

The most direct way to compare value between the two sizes is to calculate the cost per millilitre. While exact prices may vary by retailer and promotions, the 1.5L Magnum typically offers a lower price per ml than the 70cl bottle. This is because larger packaging often incurs less relative cost for bottling, labelling, and shipping. For example, if a 70cl bottle costs £35, that's £0.05 per ml. If a 1.5L Magnum costs £70, that's £0.047 per ml – a saving of roughly 6% per millilitre.

Over the course of several purchases, these savings add up. If you're a regular Au Vodka drinker, switching to the Magnum could save you a noticeable amount each year. However, it's important to consider that the upfront cost is higher, so this option suits those who have the budget to buy in bulk and the storage space to accommodate the larger bottle. For occasional drinkers or those buying a gift, the 70cl bottle may still be the more practical choice despite the slightly higher per-ml cost.

• 1.5L Magnum typically offers 5-10% lower cost per ml compared to the 70cl bottle.
• Upfront cost is higher for the Magnum, but long-term savings are real for heavy users.
• Check current prices on the Au Vodka website for the most accurate comparison.

Shelf Life and Freshness: Does Size Affect Quality?

Vodka is a stable spirit with an indefinite shelf life when stored properly, so neither size will 'go bad' over time. However, once opened, exposure to air can gradually affect the flavour profile, especially if the bottle is left half-full for months. A 1.5L Magnum, if consumed slowly, may lose some of its aromatic intensity after several months, whereas a 70cl bottle is likely to be finished sooner, ensuring every pour is as fresh as the first.

For heavy entertainers or households that go through a bottle every few weeks, the Magnum is ideal – you'll use it up before any subtle changes occur. For occasional drinkers who might take six months to finish a bottle, the 70cl is the safer bet. To maintain peak freshness in either size, store your Au Vodka upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations.

• Vodka doesn't expire, but oxidation can subtly alter flavour over long periods.
• Choose the 70cl if you drink infrequently; choose the Magnum if you host often.
• Always reseal the bottle tightly after each use to minimise air exposure.

Practicality and Storage: Which Fits Your Lifestyle?

The 70cl bottle is compact and easy to store on a standard shelf, in a cabinet, or even in a fridge for chilling. It's also much lighter to handle when pouring, making it ideal for everyday use. The 1.5L Magnum, by contrast, is taller and heavier – it may not fit in some standard home bar setups or refrigerator shelves. You'll need dedicated space, and pouring from a large bottle can be less convenient, especially for those with smaller hands or limited mobility.

For events and parties, however, the Magnum shines. It reduces the need for frequent refills, looks impressive on a bar cart, and can even serve as a conversation starter. If you're planning a celebration, consider pairing the Magnum with Au Vodka's barware accessories, such as the Au Gold Stem Bubble Glass, to elevate the presentation. For everyday sipping or gifting, the 70cl remains the more versatile and accessible choice.

• 70cl: easy to store, lightweight, fits most cabinets and fridges.
• 1.5L Magnum: requires more shelf space, heavier, but makes a bold statement.
• Consider your storage space and how often you entertain before deciding.

Which Size Is Best for Gifting?

Both sizes make excellent gifts, but they suit different occasions. The 70cl bottle is a classic, thoughtful present for birthdays, holidays, or as a thank-you gesture. It's easy to wrap, fits in a gift bag, and is universally appreciated. For a truly memorable gift, you might also consider personalising a bottle – Au Vodka offers custom engraving on select bottles, making the present even more special.

The 1.5L Magnum, on the other hand, is a showstopper. It's perfect for milestone celebrations such as weddings, anniversaries, or housewarmings, where its impressive size conveys generosity and luxury. If you're gifting to a devoted Au Vodka fan, the Magnum demonstrates that you've put extra thought into the present. For a complete gift package, pair it with accessories like the Au Diamond Cut Decanter or a set of Au Frosted Shot Glasses.

• 70cl: ideal for personal gifts, small celebrations, and stocking stuffers.
• 1.5L Magnum: best for major events, collectors, and vodka enthusiasts.
• Consider adding a personalised touch or complementary barware for an elevated gift.

Ultimately, the choice between the Au Vodka Original 1.5L Magnum and the 70cl bottle comes down to your drinking habits, storage space, and budget. If you're a frequent host or a dedicated vodka enthusiast who wants the best value per ml, the Magnum is the clear winner. For occasional enjoyment, gifting, or easy storage, the 70cl bottle remains a fantastic choice. Whichever you choose, you're getting the same ultra-premium British vodka. Ready to stock up? Explore the Au Vodka Original 70cl bottle today and find the perfect size for your needs.