National Vodka day is October 4th and even though the origin of this day cannot be found, we still celebrate arguably the most popular spirit in the world. Vodka is distilled with wheat, coconut, grapes, potatoes and more. Brands like Smirnoff, Grey Goose, Ciroc and Russian Standard dominate the world with its popularity. Since October 4th is pretty much over, lets make it National Vodka weekend shall we?
In the past I’ve written about the best-unknown vodkas, which includes brands like EFFEN, which has amazing flavors and taste. EFFEN has a new flavor Salted Caramel (which I will review soon), other vodkas like Smirnoff, Van Gogh, and Pinnacle have taken vodka to new levels and have extended the category into sweet vodkas which include, strawberry shortcake, red velvet, Caramel, PB&J, Sorbet, and Sherbet. Vodka as you know it is virtually non-existent. Brands like Ciroc have brought excitement to vodka, while Belvedere, and Grey Goose focus on class and elegance. Regardless of how you like your vodka know this, it’s your style and your way. Do not let an “expert” tell you how to enjoy your drink.
Below are some simple ways to enjoy your favorite drink:
Belvedere Hot Shot
1.5 oz Belvedere Vodka or Belvedere Bloody Mary
1.5 oz Pomegranate Juice
1.5 oz Orange Juice
Dash Tabasco
Pour orange juice into a highball glass. Shake rest of ingredients and layer over the top of the orange juice.
Kahlua Pumpkin Martini
1 ½ parts Kahlua Pumpkin Spice
1 ½ parts ABSOLUT Vodka
Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.
Shake and strain into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish with orange zest.
Ketel One Twisted Ginger
1.5 oz. Ketel One Vodka
0.75 oz. fresh limejuice
1 splash ginger beer
1 lime wedge
Build in a Collins glass over ice. Top with ginger beer. Stir.
0.6 fl. oz. of alcohol
Pinnacle® Handsome Ginger
1 part Pinnacle® Vodka
2 parts Ginger beer
Splash of Lime Juice
Mix in a glass with ice and top it off with a lime wedge and fresh mint (optional).
PB&J Coke
Created by Jonathan Pogash, The Cocktail Guru
2 parts Van Gogh PB&J Vodka
4 parts Coca-Cola
Add ingredients to a tall glass with ice and stir.
For more cocktail ideas click on #Drinks. Cheers and Salute!
