When I was asked to review Ivanabitch Vodka, I was eager to try it. After all, it’s known as “The Original Vodka with Attitude.” I had tried the berry flavor and enjoyed it, so I was game to experience another one. Hopefully, lemon, orange, blackberry or coconut would be heaven. That was not to be, a surprise was in order.
My package came and it was packed with two bottles of the world’s first tobacco flavored vodka and menthol tobacco flavored vodka. This posed a challenge, as I don’t smoke or like the smell of smoke– maybe a nice pipe or a cigar before it is lit, but that’s it.
Photo by: Maralyn D. Hill
What I did know was Ivanabitch makes premium vodka. The company maintains, “Ivanabitch is for people who like vodka that is sophisticated, real and a little rude…but always honest.” The crowds lining up at The Fancy Food Show in San Francisco were raving about the two new flavors to hit the market. So for me, I needed to leave my preconceptions behind and give the tobacco flavored versions a try.
Their taste alone did not win me over, but I did try the cocktails below and it helped. I had assistance from my husband, son, niece, friends, etc. The conclusion we came to was that the smokey flavor that comes through would probably appeal to pipe and cigar smokers, first and foremost. In fact, I think they would really enjoy it. For me personally, I’ll stick with the fruit flavors and I do want to try the coconut.
Anyway you look at it, Ivanabitch is a fine product and you are bound to find a flavor you enjoy in its assortment of premium vodkas.
Here are some cocktail recipes to enjoy with the new flavors:
Photo: Maralyn D. Hill
Smokey Breeze
1 oz Ivanabitch Menthol Tobacco Vodka
1 oz Pineapple Juice
1 oz Cranberry Juice
Pour over ice in mixing tin, shake & strain into shooter glass.
Liquid Muscle Rub
1 ½ oz Ivanabitch Menthol Tobacco Vodka
1 oz Simple Syrup
Basil
Muddle basil & simple syrup in bottom of glass, add ice, pour Ivanabitch Menthol Tobacco over muddled ingredients. Top with club soda & garnish with cucumber.
Choco Puff
1 oz Ivanabitch Tobacco Vodka
1 oz Godiva Chocolate Liqueur
2 oz Cream
Build in glass over ice. Pour contents into mixing tin, shake. Return all contents to glass.
Smokin Hottie Shooter
1 oz Ivanabitch Tobacco Vodka
1 oz Fireball or Cinnamon Schnapps
1 dash Tabasco
Build in mixing tin over ice, shake and strain into shot glass and enjoy.
Maralyn D. Hill
Maralyn D. Hill, The Epicurean Explorer
International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA)
Board Member, Co-Chair Conference & Media Trip Committee, Past President
Member: Society of American Travel Writers (SATW)
Member: Society of Professional Journalists
Executive Editor, Luxe Beat Magazine (Launching Fall 2013)
Freelance Lifestyle Journalist
Blogs: Where and What in the World & Success with Writing
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Author: Maralyn
Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.
