October 4 is National Vodka Day. This special day is dedicated to honouring one of the world's most iconic and versatile spirits.
From its origins in Eastern Europe to its global popularity today, vodka has a rich history and a prominent place in many hearts around the globe.
Impressively, vodka is the second most consumed spirit, only preceded by whisky. Traditionally, this spirit was concocted by mixing water with distilled potatoes and grains.
However, its evolution has given rise to the addition of flavourings such as sugar and fruits.
Given vodka's diverse appeal, there are numerous ways to enjoy the tipple, from being consumed neat to being mixed with other liquors or juices.
Whether you are new to vodka or a seasoned pro, here’s everything you need to know to get the most enjoyment out of this beloved spirit.
Chill the vodka
Chilling vodka before drinking it is key to enhancing its flavour. When chilled, the flavours of vodka become more intense, allowing you to taste the subtler notes of the liquor.
Given vodka's smooth nature, chilling helps keep its flavour intact. It’s personal preference whether you chill vodka to very cold temperatures or a more moderate coolness—experiment to find what suits you best.
Infuse your vodka with flavour
Although flavoured vodka can be bought in stores, making your own infused vodka is simple and rewarding.
By pouring vodka into a sealable glass jar with ingredients such as thyme, cucumber, coconut, mint or blackberries, you can create unique flavours.
For a sweeter option, place gummy candies in a glass jar of vodka. After several hours, you can retrieve the gummies for a sweet, alcohol-infused treat.
Add a dash of vodka to your favourite recipe
Vodka isn’t just for the glass - it’s also a fabulous addition to various recipes. It excels in marinades for tenderising hearty cuts of beef like prime rib and adds an extra-smooth texture to desserts like sorbet.
This culinary use of vodka extends its versatility beyond the drinks cabinet to the kitchen pantry.
Make a cocktail
As a neutral spirit, vodka doesn’t have any strong flavours of its own, making it the perfect base for cocktails. This versatility means it complements a wide array of other ingredients.
Endless vodka cocktail recipes are available, providing fertile ground for experimenting until you find your favourite combinations.
Pair it with food
In Russia, where vodka originated, the spirit is often accompanied by appetisers known as “zakuski”. Similar to tapas, these foods allow for social drinking with plenty of toasting and intriguing pairings.
You don’t need to confine yourself to traditional fare of cold hors d'oeuvres—vodka pairs wonderfully with complementary flavours.
Sausages, cucumbers, olives, salmon, ricotta and smoked meats are just a few examples of foods that harmonise beautifully with vodka.