June 8, 2011 9:24 am

Drink of the Day: Russian Standard Vodka

As far as vodka goes, I don't claim to be any sort of expert. But I can, however, tell the difference between cringe-worthy shots from a frat party and smooth sips from the top shelf of a bar.

As Russia's leading premium vodka, Russian Standard has a smooth, clean taste that is inviting to vodka connoisseurs but will not distance anyone new to the game. This traditional wheat-based vodka has a familiar flavor and scent, but its pleasant feel makes it differ from the standard vodka burn. If you are worried about overpowering vodka in your mixed drink, don't fret; Russian Standard mixes well and adds a depth and complexity that similar brands tend to lack.

As a warm welcome to summer, we suggest creating cocktails that include seasonal fruits and vegetables. As the 2011 summer drink trends roll in, cucumber seems to rank high on the list. So it's time to put down your whipped cream-flavored vodka and pick up a bottle of Russian Standard.

Cucumber Vodka Soda
Serves 4

Ingredients

4 oz vodka
2 English cucumbers
2 Tbsp lime juice
Soda water
2 tsp granulated sugar
Ice

Directions

1. Peel cucumbers and scrape out seeds with a spoon.
2. Puree in a food processor until smooth.
3. Strain cucumber into a glass.
4. Put ingredients into a shaker with ice and strain into 4 glasses.
5. Garnish each drink with a slice of cucumber.

Tip: add mint or basil as an extra garnish.

Photo credit: Pequa Spirits

— Written by Zoee Silber

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Tags : Russian Standard Vodka, cucumber, Zoee Silber, cocktails

February 8, 2011 12:35 pm

Drink of the Day: The Scarpina

I've recently experienced an epiphany: I do like Martinis! I've always loved the classic vodka based Cosmopolitan, but it hasn't been until a recent to trip to Scarpina on University Place that I realized that a classic Gin based Martini is okay by me, as long as it's infused with some great liqueurs and juices.

Coming inside from the snow and sleet covered streets, I was definitely ready for a drink after a failed attempt of leaping over an icy puddle, and asked the server what cocktail she'd recommend. With absolutely no delay, she brought me their most popular drink, named after the restaurant, called The Scarpina, and I instantly started to warm up. The Scarpina is definitely a summer time drink with its fresh and crisp flavor, but it hit the spot on that wintery night. Made with Hendricks Gin, Elderflower St. Germain, and white cranberry juice, this cocktail was perfect for me. It wasn't sweet, and had a clean, refreshing taste. The Scarpina paired great with appetizers because it wasn't overpowering and complimented my hummus and babaganoush very nicely. This is a terrific drink for anyone who wants to try something new and doesn't want to take a chance, because it's very hard to dislike this drink!

Tip: Don't be hesitant of making The Scarpina at home if you don't already own Elderflower St. Germain. It's a great liqueur to have on hand since you can find it in so many different cocktails.

Photo credit: hamptonroads.com

— Written by Valerie Cario

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Tags : The Scarpina, Scarpina, cucumber, Hendricks Gin, Elderflower St. Germain, White cranberry juice, Valerie Cario

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