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  • 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!

  • How to Enjoy Vodka?

    Tasting vodka involves using your senses to evaluate its appearance, aroma, taste, and overall quality. While vodka is known for its relatively neutral flavor, there can be subtle differences between brands and types.

    Three shots of vodka and olives

    Here’s a Short Guide to Help you Taste Test Vodka:

    Choose Your Vodka:     Start with a high-quality vodka, preferably one that’s not flavoured, to understand its basic character.

    Serve at the Right Temperature: Ideally, vodka should be chilled but not frozen. Storing it in the fridge for a few hours before tasting is suitable. Freezing can mask some of the subtleties in flavour.

    Use the Right Glass: A tulip-shaped glass, similar to a white wine glass, is best. The narrow top concentrates the aroma.

    Observe the Appearance: Pour a small amount of vodka into the glass. Swirl it around. Notice its clarity, viscosity, and any legs (the streaks that form on the side of the glass) it might leave behind.

    Smell the Vodka: Bring the glass to your nose. Take a gentle sniff to identify the initial aroma. Afterward, take a deeper inhale to understand its full bouquet. Note any scents of fruit, spice, grain, or other elements.

    Taste: Take a small sip. Let it coat your mouth. Try to discern the primary flavors. Is it smooth or harsh? Do you detect sweetness, bitterness, or spiciness? Think about the mouthfeel. Is it creamy, oily, or watery?

    Finish: Swallow and pay attention to the aftertaste. Is it short-lived or does it linger? Is it pleasant or harsh?

    Compare: If you’re tasting several vodkas, cleanse your palate between each one with some water or a neutral-flavored cracker.

    Take Notes: Keeping track of what you taste and smell can help you develop a deeper appreciation for vodka over time.

    Stay Hydrated and Responsible: If you’re sampling multiple vodkas, remember to drink water in between to stay hydrated and cleanse your palate. Always drink responsibly and know your limits.

    Ultimately, vodka tasting is a subjective experience, and everyone’s palate is different. Enjoy the process of exploring the nuances of different vodkas and discovering your own preferences.

  • KNOW YOUR TASTE OF VODKA

    Pour CHACHA vodka into a glass.What’s your go to vodka, and do you mix it or drink it straight or neat? 

    Exploring and finding your preferred choice of vodka involves a combination of research, tasting, and understanding your own palate. Each person is different, and some may like a harder taste over a lighter taste.

    As we are VODKA sommeliers, here’s a few tips to help you out:

    Understand the Basics: Vodka can be made from various raw materials like wheat, rye, corn, potatoes, and even grapes. Different materials can impart subtle flavours and mouth feels to the vodka.

    Start with Recommendations: Ask friends or experts for their favourites. Look for award-winning brands or highly-reviewed vodkas to start your exploration.

    Environment: Taste in a quiet environment where you can concentrate.

    Glassware: Use a clean glass, ideally a tulip-shaped one to concentrate the aroma.

    Appearance: Look at the vodka; it should be clear with no impurities.

    Smell: Take a moment to smell the vodka. Good vodka should have a neutral smell with maybe a slight note of the base ingredient.

    Taste: Take a small sip. Let it sit in your mouth for a few seconds. Try to identify any flavours or aftertastes. Some vodkas may have a creamy, spiced, or even fruity profile depending on the ingredient and distillation process.

    Finish: Notice how the vodka feels as you swallow. It should be smooth without a harsh burn.

    Mixing: While tasting neat vodka is essential, most people consume vodka in cocktails or mixed drinks. Try your chosen vodkas in your favourite drinks. Some might mix better than others.

    Price Point: Vodkas come at various price points. While higher-priced vodkas might offer a more refined taste, there are many mid-range and even lower-priced vodkas that offer excellent quality.

    Country of Origin: Some people have preferences for vodkas from specific countries. Each country might have its own traditions and standards for vodka production.

    Continue Exploring: Your palate will evolve over time. It’s always a good idea to try new brands or types occasionally.

    Remember, the best vodka for you is the one you enjoy the most, whether it’s sipped neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail.

    Follow our BLOG, as we will soon be creating CHACHA videos from our professional team members. 

    For now, enjoy and…. Always….

    CHACHA! & KNOW YOUR TASTE 😋 

  • The Best Recipe of a Vodka Soda Drink

    Mixing vodka with soda water is a straightforward way to enjoy a light and refreshing cocktail. This is commonly known as a “Vodka Soda” or “Vodka Water“.

    Here’s how you can make it:

    Glass with vodka soda Ingredients:

    • Vodka (1.5 ounces or 45 ml)
    • Soda water (club soda or sparkling water)
    • Ice cubes
    • Lemon or lime wedge (optional, for garnish)

    Instructions:

    1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
    2. Pour in the vodka (1.5 ounces or 45 ml).
    3. Top off the glass with soda water.
    4. Give it a gentle stir to mix the vodka and soda water.
    5. Optionally, garnish with a lemon or lime wedge.

    This cocktail is popular because it’s simple to make and has a clean, crisp taste. The soda water adds effervescence, while the vodka provides the alcohol content. You can adjust the ratio of vodka to soda water based on your preference for a stronger or milder drink. 

    How Vodka Soda Started?

    The vodka soda is a simple cocktail consisting of vodka and soda water, usually served over ice with a lime or lemon wedge. Its origins are a bit hard to pin down, but the drink likely gained popularity due to its simplicity and the clear, neutral taste of vodka. The low-calorie aspect of soda water also makes it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy an alcoholic beverage without consuming too many calories or sugar.

    The vodka soda is essentially a variation of the highball, a family of cocktails made by mixing a base spirit with a larger proportion of a non-alcoholic mixer. Highballs have been around since at least the late 19th century, and vodka sodas likely became more popular as vodka became more widely available and marketed as a “clean” mixable spirit.

    It’s a staple in bars and homes alike because it’s easy to make, requires few ingredients, and is relatively light in flavour, making it appealing to a wide range of people.

     Tell CHACHA when the glasses touch each other!!!

  • THE SEXY COSMOPOLITAN

    Want to Make a Cosmopolitan?

    Go to the store now and get the finest ingredients to have the ultimate flavour experience. Of course, be sure to drink it with CHACHA ?

    CHACHA MARTINI

    • 2 oz Vodka
    • 1 oz Cranberry Juice
    • 3/4 oz Lime Juice (freshly squeezed is best)
    • 1/2 oz Triple Sec
    • Ice
    • Lime twist or lemon twist, for garnish

    LET’S GET TO IT!

    Now GO….. Create YOUR SEXY Cosmopolitan:

    • Chill your martini glass in the freezer or by filling it with ice water and letting it sit while you prepare the cocktail.
    • In a cocktail shaker, add ice cubes. The colder the ingredients, the better the cocktail will be.
    • Pour in the vodka, cranberry juice, freshly squeezed lime juice, and triple sec.
    • Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This not only chills the cocktail but also helps to mix the flavours thoroughly.
    • Remove the ice from your martini glass.
    • Using a strainer, pour the shaken mixture into the chilled martini glass.
    • If you’d like, you can garnish your cosmopolitan with a twist of lime or lemon. To do this, hold a strip of the citrus peel over the glass and give it a little twist to release the oils. Then drop it into the glass.
    • Serve your cosmopolitan cocktail and enjoy!

    Never forget to use quality ingredients because it really makes a difference! Using fresh lime juice and good quality cranberry juice will greatly enhance the flavour of your cosmopolitan. Adjust the proportions of the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

    THE HISTORY OF THE COSMOPOLITAN

    The cosmopolitan cocktail, often simply referred to as a “cosmo”, is a classic cocktail with a history that dates back several decades. While there are different accounts of its origin, the most widely accepted story places its creation in the 1970s or 1980s.

    The exact creator of the cosmopolitan is debated, but it gained popularity in the 1990s due to its frequent appearance on the TV show “Sex and the City.” The cocktail’s rise to fame was largely attributed to the characters of the show regularly ordering and enjoying it.

    The classic cosmopolitan recipe typically includes vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, and triple sec, all shaken together and served in a martini glass. It’s known for its pinkish hue and tart-sweet flavour profile. Over time, variations of the cosmopolitan have emerged, incorporating different types of spirits, fruit juices, and creative twists.

    The cosmopolitan’s association with elegance, modernity, and sophistication has made it a staple in bars and cocktail menus around the world. Its iconic status has solidified its place in cocktail history.

    TRENDS

    Cosmopolitan cocktails have remained popular over the years, and while the classic recipe is timeless, there have been some trends and variations that have emerged to give the cosmopolitan a modern twist. Here are a few cosmopolitan trends you might find interesting:

    1. Flavour Variations: Bartenders and mixologists have experimented with different fruit flavours to create variations of the classic cosmopolitan. You might find versions that use pomegranate, blood orange, or even tropical fruit juices to add unique flavours.
    2. Craft Ingredients: With the rise of craft cocktails, there’s a trend toward using high-quality, artisanal ingredients. This includes using small-batch vodka, freshly squeezed juices, and house-made syrups to elevate the cosmopolitan’s flavour profile.
    3. Herb and Spice Infusions: Some cosmopolitan variations incorporate herbs like basil or thyme, or spices like ginger or cardamom, to add complexity and depth to the cocktail.
    4. Low-Calorie and Health-Conscious Versions: As people become more health-conscious, there’s a trend toward creating cosmopolitan recipes with lower sugar content or using alternative sweeteners. Additionally, using fresh, organic ingredients is gaining traction.
    5. Sustainable Practices: Many bars and mixologists are focusing on sustainable practices, which can extend to cocktails. This might involve using locally sourced ingredients, reducing waste, and using eco-friendly spirits and mixers.
    6. Global Influences: The cosmopolitan has taken on international influences, with variations inspired by different cultures and ingredients from around the world.
    7. Presentation: Creative garnishes and glassware can make a cosmopolitan stand out. From edible flower garnishes to uniquely shaped glasses, presentation trends can add to the overall drinking experience.
    8. Spiked Seltzer and Ready-to-Drink Cosmopolitans: With the popularity of spiked seltzers and ready-to-drink cocktails, you might come across canned or bottled cosmopolitan beverages that offer convenience and portability.

    So there you have it and we hope it helps.

    ENJOY your COSMO with CHACHA!

  • The Best Vodka Mixers You Should Try

    Need Some Ideas for Vodka Mixers? ?

    Get your party on with these vodka mixers, you wont be disappointed!

    Tonic Water: A classic mixer that pairs well with vodka, creating a refreshing vodka tonic.

    Soda Water: Simple and versatile, soda water allows the vodka’s flavor to shine through, making it a popular choice.

    Fruit Juices: Mix vodka with various fruit juices like orange, cranberry, pineapple, or grapefruit for fruity and vibrant cocktails.

    Lemonade: Vodka and lemonade create a sweet and tangy combination that’s perfect for warm weather.

    Ginger Beer: When combined with vodka, ginger beer produces a Moscow Mule, a delicious and spicy cocktail.

    Cranberry Juice: Mixing vodka with cranberry juice creates the popular Cosmopolitan cocktail, known for its sweet-tart taste.

    Club Soda: Similar to soda water, club soda is another excellent option for a simple and bubbly vodka mixer.

    Iced Tea: Vodka and iced tea make a refreshing spiked tea, perfect for outdoor gatherings.

    Lime or Lemon Wedges: A simple garnish with lime or lemon wedges can enhance the vodka’s favour.

    You can also be creative and mix several different mixers in your drink, such as Gatorade, Energy Drinks, and also add lemon or lime for that extra taste.

    Enjoy and Cheers to CHACHA! 

  • Drinking Vodka in Outer Space

    NO GRAVITY FOR CHACHA

    Ever think what it would be like to drink vodka in outer space? ?

    Drinking vodka or any other liquids in outer space presents unique challenges due to the lack of gravity. In a microgravity environment, liquids don’t pour or flow the way they do on Earth; they form bubbles and float around, potentially damaging equipment or contaminating the environment.

    Astronauts in space typically consume liquids through specially designed straws and containers that prevent the liquid from escaping into the surrounding area. So, if someone were to attempt drinking vodka in space, they’d need to utilize similar technology to ensure that it can be consumed safely.

    Furthermore, alcohol is generally prohibited on the International Space Station (ISS) due to its potential effects on the human body, especially when considering the unique physiological challenges of living in space. Consuming alcohol could have unpredictable effects on an astronaut’s health and ability to perform their duties. Therefore, while it’s an interesting concept, drinking vodka in space would likely be impractical and against the rules of most space agencies.

    So there you have it, you can’t try this out at home.

    CHACHA to the MOON!

  • The Hottest Vodka Trends

    ARE YOU HOT OR NOT? ?

    There’s some very HOT trends going around these days, and NO it’s not your girlfriend.

    The vodka industry is beginning to change, where consumers are evolving and choosing more premium vodka brands rather than focusing on their budget.

    #1 – Craft and Small-Batch Vodkas —> Similar to the overall craft spirits trend, there has been a growing interest in craft and small-batch vodkas. Consumers are seeking unique and artisanal vodkas made with high-quality ingredients and distinct production methods.

    #2 – Flavour Innovations —> Flavoured vodkas continue to be popular, with companies introducing new and creative flavors to attract consumers. Beyond traditional fruit flavors, there has been an exploration of unique and unconventional flavors like spice-infused vodkas or botanical-inspired varieties.

    #3 – Organic and Natural Vodkas —> With the increasing focus on health and wellness, there is a demand for organic and natural vodkas made with organic grains and free from artificial additives or preservatives. Consumers are seeking vodkas that align with their preferences for clean and conscious drinking.

    #4 – Locally Sourced Ingredients —> Vodka companies are emphasizing the use of locally sourced ingredients, promoting sustainability and supporting local farmers and producers. This trend appeals to consumers who value transparency and locality in their products.

    #5 – Mixology and Craft Cocktails —> Vodka remains a key ingredient in many popular cocktails, and companies are catering to mixology enthusiasts by offering vodkas specifically designed for crafting cocktails. These vodkas may have unique flavor profiles, higher proofs, or specific characteristics that enhance their performance in mixed drinks.

    #6 – Premium and Ultra-Premium Vodkas —> Premium and ultra-premium vodkas continue to hold a strong position in the market, with consumers willing to pay a premium for vodkas that are exceptionally smooth, distilled multiple times, or filtered through specialized methods.

    #7 – Virtual and Distillery Experiences —> Vodka companies have embraced virtual experiences and digital marketing to engage consumers. They offer virtual tours, tastings, and educational sessions, allowing consumers to connect with the brand and its story from the comfort of their own homes.

    Let’s work together, where YOU & CHACHA….

    WE, are the trend setters ?

    CHACHA to you and your family.

  • 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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