Drinks

  • How to Choose Your Style of Vodka

    Choosing Your Best of Vodka

    It depends on a combination of personal preference, intended use, and understanding some key factors that differentiate vodkas.

    Here are some tips to guide you:

    1. Taste and Smoothness:
    – Neutral vs. Character: Some vodkas are designed to be as neutral as possible, while others have distinctive flavours. Decide if you prefer a clean, smooth vodka or one with more character.
    – Smoothness: Higher-quality vodkas tend to be smoother with less burn. This is often achieved through multiple distillations and careful filtration.

    2. Ingredients:
    – Base Ingredients: Vodka can be made from grains (wheat, rye, barley), potatoes, corn, or even fruits. Each base ingredient imparts a different subtle flavour profile. For example, potato vodkas often have a creamier texture, while wheat vodkas are smoother.

    3. Distillation and Filtration:
    – Distillation: More distillations can mean a purer product but not always better. Some brands boast numerous distillations, but the quality of the distillation process is more important than the number.
    – Filtration: Vodkas are often filtered through charcoal, quartz, or other materials to remove impurities. The method and number of filtrations can affect smoothness.

    4. Brand and Price:
    – Reputation: Established brands with good reputations are often a safer bet, but many smaller, craft distilleries produce excellent vodkas.
    – Price: While price can indicate quality, it’s not always the case. There are excellent vodkas at mid-range prices, and some high-end vodkas may not be worth the extra cost for everyone.

    5. Intended Use:
    – Cocktails vs. Neat**: If you plan to mix the vodka into cocktails, you might prioritize a clean, neutral flavour that blends well. For sipping neat or on the rocks, you might prefer a vodka with more character.

    6. Personal Preference:
    – Tasting: The best way to determine your favourite vodka is through tasting. Attend vodka tastings or try small bottles of different brands to see which you prefer.

    7. Reviews and Awards:
    – Critic Reviews: Look for reviews from trusted sources or vodka enthusiasts.
    – Awards: Vodkas that have won awards at spirits competitions often indicate quality, but personal taste is still paramount.

    By considering these factors, you can find a vodka that suits your taste and needs.

    Enjoy 🥂

  • LCBO Strike 2024

    The LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario)

    Initiated its First-ever Strike

     

    On July 5, 2024, following unsuccessful negotiations between the LCBO management and the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU). Around 9,000 workers have walked off the job due to disputes primarily concerning job security, wages, and the potential effects of the provincial government’s plans to expand alcohol sales to more convenience and grocery stores.

    Key Issues and Impacts:

    1. Store Closures: All LCBO retail stores will be closed for the initial two weeks of the strike. If the strike persists beyond July 19, a limited number of stores will reopen on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays with reduced hours.

    2. Online and Wholesale Services: The LCBO’s online platform and app will continue to operate, albeit with some limitations. Wholesale supply chains to bars, restaurants, and grocery stores will also remain functional, ensuring these establishments can still procure liquor.

    3. Union’s Concerns: OPSEU is focused on job security, fearing that the government’s move to liberalize alcohol sales could result in significant job losses. They are also advocating for better wages and working conditions. The union has emphasized that the strike is more about protecting jobs than just negotiating salary increases.

    4. LCBO’s Offer: The latest proposal from the LCBO included a seven percent pay increase over three years, converting 400 casual positions to full-time, and extending benefits to more casual employees. Despite these concessions, the union remains concerned about the broader implications of government policies on job security.

    5. Government Position: The Ontario government, led by Premier Doug Ford, remains committed to its plan to expand alcohol sales to more retail outlets, arguing that this will provide greater convenience and choice for consumers. The government has expressed disappointment over the breakdown in negotiations and has called for the union to return to the bargaining table.

    The ongoing strike underscores the tension between labor unions seeking to protect employment and benefits for their members and government policies aimed at increasing consumer access to alcohol through expanded retail opportunities.

    Stay tuned for more updates 🙏

  • HAPPY CANADA DAY! Celebration VODKA Cocktail Ideas 🎉

    CANADA DAY VODKA COTAIL IDEAS

    HAPPY CANDA DAY to YOU all from CHACHA! We hope you have a great weekend and enjoy creating new memories with your friends and family. Awesomely enough, CANADA DAY is Monday so we get a long weekend, woooooo!

    Here’s some ideas a for you to consider this weekend:

    1. **Maple Vodka Lemonade**:
    – **Ingredients**: Vodka, lemonade, maple syrup, fresh lemon slices, mint leaves.
    – **Instructions**: Mix vodka and lemonade in a glass filled with ice. Add a splash of maple syrup and stir. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and mint leaves.

    2. **Canadian Caesar**:
    – **Ingredients**: Vodka, Clamato juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, celery salt, lime wedge, celery stalk, pickles or olives for garnish.
    – **Instructions**: Rim a glass with lime and dip in celery salt. Fill the glass with ice, add vodka, Clamato juice, a few dashes of hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well and garnish with a celery stalk, lime wedge, and pickles or olives.

    3. **Maple Berry Vodka Smash**:
    – **Ingredients**: Vodka, fresh mixed berries (raspberries, blueberries, strawberries), maple syrup, lemon juice, soda water.
    – **Instructions**: Muddle berries in a glass. Add vodka, lemon juice, and a splash of maple syrup. Fill with ice and top with soda water. Stir and garnish with extra berries.

    4. **Maple Old Fashioned**:
    – **Ingredients**: Vodka, maple syrup, bitters, orange peel.
    – **Instructions**: In a glass, combine vodka, a dash of bitters, and a teaspoon of maple syrup. Add ice and stir. Garnish with an orange peel.

    5. **Cranberry Maple Vodka Spritz**:
    – **Ingredients**: Vodka, cranberry juice, soda water, maple syrup, lime wedge, fresh cranberries for garnish.
    – **Instructions**: Fill a glass with ice, add vodka and cranberry juice. Top with soda water and a splash of maple syrup. Stir well and garnish with a lime wedge and fresh cranberries.

    These cocktails are perfect for adding a Canadian flair to your Canada Day celebrations!

    HAPPY CANADA DAY & CHACHA EVERYONE! 

  • These VOKDA Drinks Will Freshen Up Your Summer

    POPULAR SUMMER VODKA DRINKS

    Finally summer is here and we’re all ready to hit the Toronto boating and events coming soon. Also, HAPPY CANADA DAY to you ALL! 🇨🇦

    Here are some ideas for you this summer for vodka-based drinks that are popular, refreshing and perfect for warm weather:

     

    Vodka Lemonade

      • Ingredients: Vodka, lemonade, fresh mint, lemon slices.
      • Instructions: Fill a glass with ice, add vodka and lemonade, and garnish with fresh mint and lemon slices.

     

    Moscow Mule

    • Ingredients: Vodka, ginger beer, fresh lime juice, lime slices.
    • Instructions: In a copper mug, combine vodka and lime juice. Fill with ice and top with ginger beer. Stir and garnish with a lime slice.

    CHACHA VODKA

     

    Vodka Soda

    • Ingredients: Vodka, soda water, lime or lemon wedge.
    • Instructions: Fill a glass with ice, add vodka, top with soda water, and garnish with a lime or lemon wedge.

     

    Strawberry Basil Vodka Smash

    • Ingredients: Vodka, fresh strawberries, basil leaves, lemon juice, simple syrup, soda water.
    • Instructions: Muddle strawberries and basil in a glass. Add vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Fill with ice, top with soda water, and stir.

     

    Watermelon Vodka Cooler

    • Ingredients: Vodka, fresh watermelon juice, lime juice, simple syrup, mint leaves.
    • Instructions: In a shaker, combine vodka, watermelon juice, lime juice, and simple syrup. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with mint leaves.

     

    Vodka Collins

    • Ingredients**: Vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, soda water.
    • Instructions**: In a shaker, combine vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Shake well and pour into a glass filled with ice. Top with soda water and stir.

     

    Cucumber Mint Vodka Fizz

    • Ingredients: Vodka, cucumber slices, mint leaves, lime juice, simple syrup, soda water.
    • Instructions: Muddle cucumber and mint in a glass. Add vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup. Fill with ice and top with soda water. Stir well.

     

    These drinks are light, refreshing, and easy to make, making them ideal for summer gatherings and relaxing days in the sun.

    CHACHA & ENJOY YOUR SUMMER! 🔥

  • Ideas for Your VODKA Weekend Mixer

    VODKA Weekend Mixer Ideas

    Check out some created ideas that are refreshing for you to try this weekend!

    1. **Cucumber Mint Cooler**: Mix vodka with muddled cucumber and fresh mint leaves. Add a splash of lime juice and simple syrup. Shake well and serve over ice. Top with soda water for a refreshing twist.

    2. **Raspberry Lemonade Fizz**: Combine vodka with raspberry puree and freshly squeezed lemonade. Serve over ice and top with sparkling water. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh raspberries.

    3. **Ginger Peach Smash**: Muddle fresh peaches with a bit of ginger syrup. Add vodka and a squeeze of lemon juice. Shake and strain into a glass with ice. Top with ginger beer and garnish with a peach slice.

    4. **Watermelon Basil Blast**: Blend fresh watermelon with basil leaves and a bit of lime juice. Add vodka and stir. Serve in a glass filled with ice and garnish with a basil leaf.

    5. **Spicy Mango Tango**: Mix vodka with mango nectar and a splash of lime juice. Add a small amount of jalapeño or hot sauce for a kick. Serve over ice and garnish with a lime wedge and mango slice.

    6. **Blueberry Lavender Lemonade**: Infuse vodka with dried lavender for a few hours, then strain. Mix with blueberry syrup and freshly squeezed lemonade. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices and fresh blueberries.

    7. **Espresso Martini**: Shake vodka with freshly brewed espresso, a dash of coffee liqueur, and a bit of simple syrup. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with coffee beans.

    8. **Blackberry Basil Refresher**: Muddle fresh blackberries and basil leaves with simple syrup. Add vodka and a splash of lemon juice. Shake well and strain over ice. Top with club soda and garnish with blackberries and basil.

    9. **Pomegranate Cosmo**: Shake vodka with pomegranate juice, triple sec, and a squeeze of lime. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a twist of lime peel.

    10. **Orange Creamsicle**: Mix vanilla-flavored vodka with orange juice and a splash of cream or half and half. Serve over ice and garnish with an orange slice.

    Let us know what you tried and how you enjoyed it!

    CHACHA!

  • VODKA POPSICLE SELTZER DRINK WITH ALKALINE ICE CUBES

    CHACHA VODKA POPSICLE SELTZER DRINK WITH ALKALINE ICE CUBES

    Give this drink a try at home, it’s refreshingly DELICIOUS!

    Here’s some suggestions on how to create a popsicle vodka and seltzer drink with alkaline ice cubes.

    It’s unique and tasty, and the alkaline ice cubes make it so much better!

    So…….

    1. Choose your favourite popsicle flavour. We recommend CHERRY
    2. Add 3 shots of CHACHA vodka
    3. Your Favourite Hard Seltzer
    4. Alkaline ice cubes

    VODKA POPSICLE SELTZER ALKALINE DRINK

     

    Here’s what you need to do:

    1. Start by preparing your alkaline ice cubes. You can make these by freezing water with a high pH level or by using store-bought alkaline water. This adds a unique twist to your drink. Put the ice in your glass.
    2. Break up into small pieces and place the popsicle in the glass.
    3. Pour CHACHA vodka over the Popsicle and ICE.
    4. Top off the glass with a hard seltzer. This will add a fizzy and refreshing element to your drink.
    5. Give the mixture a gentle stir to combine the flavours and allow the Popsicle to infuse into the drink.

    Enjoy your Popsicle vodka and seltzer drink with alkaline ice cubes, especially on a hot sunny day!

    Be sure to share with your friends too 😉

    We’ll be sharing more CHACHA vodka receipts with you and please comment on your experience and any suggestions on how you add your own twist to the drink!

    CHEERS!

  • The Fall 2023: Cozy Cocktails

    Fall is a season known for its coziness, and there are many things that contribute to creating a warm and comforting atmosphere during this time of year.  As the weather cools down, it’s the perfect time to pull out your favourite sweaters and cardigans, then after work meet with friends and have a good time with a couple cocktails. Fall is a wonderful season for enjoying flavourful and cozy cocktails. While vodka is a versatile spirit that can be used in a variety of cocktails.

    Here Are Some Fall-Themed Vodka Drinks You Might Enjoy:

    1. Apple Cider Moscow MuleApple Cider Moscow Mule cocktail. Two glasses with cocktail, apple, cinnamon sticks.

    • 2 oz of vodka
    • 4 oz apple cider
    • 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
    • Ginger beer
    • Apple slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish
    • Ice

    Instructions: In a copper mug or glass filled with ice, combine the vodka, apple cider, and lime juice. Top it off with ginger beer, garnish with apple slices and a cinnamon stick, and give it a gentle stirb.

    Cranberry Vodka Martini cocktail. Red cocktail with ice and empty glass. Pink background and star. 2. Cranberry Vodka Martini             

    • 2 oz of vodka
    • 1 oz cranberry juice
    • 1/2 oz orange liqueur (e.g., Triple Sec or Cointreau)
    • Splash of fresh lime juice
    • Orange twist or cranberries for garnish

    Instructions: In a shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and lime juice. Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with an orange twist or a few cranberries.

    3. Caramel Apple Martini Caramel Apple Martini drink. Martini glass. Slide of Apple in cocktail.

    • 2 oz of vodka
    • 1 oz apple liqueur or schnapps
    • 1 oz caramel syrup
    • Apple slice or caramel drizzle for garnish

    Instructions: Rim a martini glass with caramel syrup. In a shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, apple liqueur, and caramel syrup. Shake well and strain into the prepared glass. Garnish with an apple slice or a drizzle of caramel.

    4. Hot Vodka Cranberry Hot Vodka Cranberry drink with dry orange on top.

    • 1.5 oz of vodka
    • 4 oz hot cranberry juice
    • Cinnamon stick and orange slice for garnish

    Instructions: Heat cranberry juice in a saucepan without boiling. Pour the hot cranberry juice into a mug or heat proof glass, add the vodka, and stir. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and an orange slice.

    These cozy elements of fall contribute to the season’s charm and make it a favorite time of year for many people who enjoy the simple pleasures of comfort and warmth. Enjoy these fall vodka drinks with, and feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Cheers!

  • CHACHA VODKA Food Pairing Ideas

    Best Foods to Eat & CHACHA

    VODKA  provides a very clean and neutral flavour which is great for food pairing, especially with our below recommendations.

    Give

    Caviar

    Vodka and caviar are a classic combination. The smoothness of vodka complements the delicate flavors of caviar. One of CHACHA’s favourites!  

    Smoked Salmon

    The light, crisp nature of vodka pairs well with the rich and smoky flavors of salmon. Try serving vodka alongside smoked salmon canapés or in a Bloody Mary with a salmon garnish.

    Pickled Herring

    Vodka’s clean taste can help cut through the brininess and richness of pickled herring, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

    Sushi and Sashimi

    Vodka’s neutrality can cleanse the palate between bites of sushi and sashimi. It allows you to fully appreciate the delicate

    Ingredients

    Oysters

    The smoothness of vodka enhances the natural brininess of oysters. Serve chilled vodka alongside freshly shucked oysters for a delightful pairing.

    Spicy Cuisine

    Vodka’s cooling effect can help balance the heat of spicy dishes. Consider pairing vodka with spicy Mexican, Thai, or Indian cuisine to temper the spiciness and refresh the palate.

    Cheese

    Vodka can complement a wide range of cheeses. Try it with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese, as well as hard and aged cheeses like Parmesan or cheddar.

    Light Appetizers

    Vodka can be a great accompaniment to light appetizers such as shrimp cocktail, vegetable crudités, or bruschetta. Its clean flavor won’t overpower the delicate flavors of these dishes.

    Scandinavian Cuisine

    Vodka has a strong association with Scandinavian countries, and it pairs well with traditional dishes like gravlax (cured salmon), herring salad, or smoked fish.

    Dark Chocolate

    While not a traditional pairing, the smoothness of vodka can complement the bitterness of dark chocolate. Consider sipping vodka while enjoying a piece of high-quality dark chocolate for a unique experience.

    CHACHA! We Hope YOU Enjoy?

  • How To Make a VODKA Martini

    VODKA Martini Checklist & Tips

    Ahhhhhhhh a classic vodka martini, yummmm!

    Go to the store & buy the below:

    1. 2 1/2 ounces vodka
    2. 1/2 ounce dry vermouth
    3. Ice cubes
    4. Lemon twist or olives for garnish

    You can reference the above items as a checklist, so its smooth sailing.

    The Equipment You’ll Need

    1. Mixing glass or cocktail shaker
    2. Bar spoon or long-handled spoon
    3. Martini glass
    4. Cocktail strainer

    Another checklist for you ?

    A Step-by-Step for YOUR Vodka Martini 

    Chill the Martini Glass

    Place the martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes to chill it.

    A chilled glass helps keep the cocktail cold.

    Add Ice

    Fill a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice cubes. This will be used to chill and mix the ingredients.

    Add Vodka and Vermouth

    Pour 2 1/2 ounces of vodka and 1/2 ounce of dry vermouth into the mixing glass or cocktail shaker.

    Stir or Shake

    Using a bar spoon or long-handled spoon, gently stir the mixture in the mixing glass for about 30 seconds. If you prefer a more diluted and colder martini, you can shake the mixture vigorously in a cocktail shaker for about 10-15 seconds.

    However, shaking may create a slightly different texture and appearance.

    Strain into a Martini Glass

    Place the cocktail strainer over the mixing glass or cocktail shaker and pour the mixture into the chilled martini glass. The strainer will catch any ice cubes or small impurities, giving you a smooth martini.

    Garnish

    You can garnish your vodka martini with a lemon twist or olives. For a lemon twist, use a vegetable peeler or a knife to remove a small strip of lemon peel.

    Twist it over the glass to release the essential oils and then drop it into the drink. For olives, simply place one or two on a cocktail pick and place it in the glass.

    Grab Your Martini Glass, Pour & ENJOIY! ?
    Cheers to YOU & CHACHA! ?
Health Plus Fun
3 months ago
I don't usually drink Vodka but I could say CHACHA is one of a kind. Very smooth, distilled to perfection and it's elegance makes a complete package for a classy party hosting.
Jusentta Whiteley
3 months ago
This premium vodka is absolutely delightful. It's smooth and refreshing. I am very impressed and thrilled to have the opportunity to taste such refined vodka.
Orion Eveleigh
2 months ago
I'm a martini woman and CHACHA is the best I've tried such smooth sweet nectar of the gods!! This is most delicious clean and pure taste. Highly recommend.
Richey Garibay
2 months ago
Surprised that this would be a very good Vodka coming out of the Maple Leaf Country but a very great smooth tasting Vodka. Keep up the good work CHACHA!
Michael Powell
2 months ago
CHACHA is an excellent choice for a clean and purely filtered vodka that can be enjoyed straight up or mixed in a cocktail. Definitely one of the best out there!
Rachel B
2 months ago
This is one of my new favourite vodka’s ! Finest blend and Canadian brand, love to show my support to upcoming Canadian brands. Must try! You won’t be disappointed.

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