The Versatility of Vodka
In the world of cocktails, vodka remains to be a bar staple that mixologists and bartenders simply can’t live without. Vodka allows mixologists to be more creative and innovative with their creations without forgetting the touch of complexity needed in these cocktails. The versatility of vodka is unparalleled, and if you don’t have a bottle of one at home this holiday season, it’s time you stock up.
Why Everyone Loves Vodka
When brown and aged spirits led the cocktail renaissance, this briefly took the spotlight away from vodka. However, this only forced bartenders to realize how essential vodka was to their arsenal. As a result, mixologists became more playful with their creations, experimenting with different taste profiles and aromas of vodkas. Meanwhile, the cocktail lovers embraced this innovation whole-heartedly.
One of the main reasons why people love vodka is its versatility- in terms of its ability to blend well with any ingredient. Vodka is highly adaptable, making it an invaluable team player. Not to mention, its taste appeals to nearly everyone as vodka is rather approachable (as far as liquor is concerned).
With its versatility comes its diversity—another aspect that mixologists love about vodka. There are endless ways to come up with fresh and unique flavor combinations using vodka. And, since this liquor provides a clean palate, there’s more room to play around with heavier flavors.
Holiday Cocktails with Vodka
With the holidays around the corner, here are some special holiday cocktails worthy of whipping up:
1. Vodka Martini
Christmas or New Year won’t be complete without the classic vodka martini. You will need dry vermouth, vodka, and some orange bitters (if you want the drink to be on the bitter side). Overall, think of this as a classic gin martini, except it has a vodka base.
2. Bloody Mary
For those looking for a tinge of sourness in their drinks, go for the bloody Mary. You can simply mix vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, and some spices. But, if you want to change things up, use clamato juice (tomato juice with clam broth) instead to make a bloody Caesar.
3. Cosmopolitan
As for people who are looking for something fruity, the cosmopolitan is for you. Simply mix vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, and an orange liqueur (high-end preferred). If you want it sweeter, add more cranberry juice in the mix.
4. Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is the first vodka drink that Americans were introduced to in the mid-20th century. To date, this snappy cocktail has become a go-to for people who love ginger beer. Although, if you want to mix and serve the real deal, go for spicy ginger beer.
5. Black Russian
For those who like mixing their alcohol and coffee, the black Russian is the perfect cocktail. Just mix vodka and a coffee liqueur like Kahlua. However, if you want to change things up, add cream to the mix and you’ll have a White Russian. You can also replace the coffee and cream with crème de cacao from Smith & Wesson for that chocolate flavor.
There’s No Denying the Versatility of Vodka
The unique charm and allure that vodka brings to any drink is enough to satisfy both the novice drinkers and cocktail connoisseurs. So, it’s no wonder why bartenders and mixologists talk highly of this spirit!
Looking for wine and spirits for your holiday parties or Christmas presents? Check out Festival Wine and Spirit’s collection before the new year!