It seems like everyday there is another “national (insert noun here) day”, but here at A Life In The Day of Andrea, the ones that excite us most are those that celebrate an adult beverage. Lucky for us and the free world, today, October 4th is National Vodka Day!
Here are some fun facts about vodka from the folks at elit by Stolichnaya, to impress your buds later for happy hour:
- Vodka is lighter than water – 1 liter of water weighs 1,000 grams while 1 liter of vodka weighs 953 grams
- Distilled liquor in the Middle Ages was used mainly for medicinal purposes, as well as being an ingredient in the production of gunpowder
- Contrary to popular belief, vodka can go bad if stored for longer periods of time. Ideally, vodka should be consumed within 12 months of the manufacturing date
We had the opportunity to chat with elit by Stolichnaya Global Brand Ambassador, Brent Lamberti about the right way to drink vodka, and his personal favorite cocktail.
elit by Stolichnaya National Brand Ambassador, Brent Lamberti
When it comes to vodka, often some of us are reminded of our younger years and the improper way to imbibe. On National Vodka Day, what are your tips for enjoying vodka without the hangover?
As long as you are enjoying elit responsibly, there’s definitely no wrong way to enjoy it. As for hangovers, the best way to avoid them is to drink cocktails with minimal sugar content. The overly sweet cocktails of 10 years ago have been replaced by more sophisticated, spirit forward cocktails. Traditionally in Eastern Europe, the birthplace of vodka, people drank it with food. While vodka pairs perfectly savory appetizers, the food also helps you from over-drinking.
We have got a taste of the LED Martini and The Golden Hour cocktails, but what would you say is your favorite cocktail made with elit by Stolichnaya?
I love an ice-cold Flame of Love cocktail. The Flame of Love is a martini variation from the Rat Pack Era. Substitute Fino Sherry for Dry Vermouth and an orange twist in place of a lemon one. Serve with a side of Jamon Iberico and I think you’ll enjoy National Vodka Day just fine!
The Flame of Love
3 oz elit
1/4 oz fino sherry
3 orange peels
Method: rinse and season a chilled martini glass with the sherry and then discard the excess. Using a match, express and ignite the oils from 2 orange peels so the burned oil coats the inside of the sherry-coated glass. Stir elit with ice until very cold and fine strain into the seasoned glass. Finish with one more flamed orange peel.
For more info on elit by Stolichnaya, head over to their website, or to @elitbystoli for more vodka cocktail and entertaining ideas. Cheers to National Vodka Day!
*Photos courtesy of elit by Stolichnaya
A Life in the Day of Andrea 