6 Ciroc Vodka Cocktails That Capture The Taste Of India In A Glass
When it comes to mixology the only boundary is your imagination. It’s a place where innovation and tradition can coexist and global flavours can all find a place on the same bar counter. But to construct this exploration into the unknown, you need to start with a solid foundation, and that’s where vodka comes to the rescue. This clear spirit is a versatile canvas on which mixologists can paint their flavour masterpieces starting with a high-quality spirit like Cîroc Vodka that can make every glass a work of art.
Flavours Of Cîroc Vodka
The French vodka from Cîroc is made by distilling grapes, rather than using grains or potatoes and then it’s passed through a charcoal filtration process to achieve a smooth and refined taste. Cîroc vodka can be traced back to the 18th century when the Robicquet family began producing wine and spirits in France. In 2003, Jean-Sebastien Robicquet decided to establish his own brand, rooted in his family's traditions and it ended up being one of the most unique vodkas in the market today.
What really sets it apart is the distillation process. Cîroc distils their spirit five times, resulting in its unique citrus flavour profile. The base wine is initially distilled four times in column stills and then distilled a fifth time in a traditional copper pot still at the renowned Distillerie de Chevanceaux in southern France.
While there are many cuisines and cultures yet to be explored in the world of mixology, Indian flavours are quickly finding their place on the mixology menu. Through spices and herbs, bartenders pay homage to the diversity of Indian cuisine and each sip tells a story, transporting you to the bustling markets of Mumbai, the serene backwaters of Kerala, or the regal palaces of Rajasthan. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a novice looking to explore new horizons, these recipes promise a taste of India like never before.
Desi Mojito
Let's begin with an Indian reinvention of the classic mojito - the Desi Mojito. While the traditional mojito features white rum, lime juice, sugar, club soda, and mint, this Indian rendition introduces a delightful element of jal jeera. Jal jeera is tangy summer drink made from a blend of roasted cumin, black pepper, dried mango powder, cayenne, ginger, and mint. This infusion adds a burst of captivating flavours to the cocktail.
Imli Margarita
Imli or tamarind is one of India’s favourite souring agents. If you've never savoured a tamarind-flavoured drink, you’re in for a treat. Once you experience its unique blend of sweet and tart, you'll crave it repeatedly. In this version of the classic margarita, tamarind concentrate and ginger simple syrup join forces with tequila, triple sec, and lime juice to create a harmonious blend of bright, exotic, and citrusy notes.
Boozy Mango Lassi
For enthusiasts of the rich and creamy mango lassi, here's a delightful twist – the Boozy Mango Lassi. The traditional mango lassi is a beverage teeming with intricate flavours, achieved through the combination of mangoes, yoghurt, buttermilk, kaffir lime syrup, and lime juice. Elevate it to a summertime favourite by introducing a touch of rum into the mix, creating the perfect boozy antidote to sweltering days.
Indian Hot Toddy
The Indian Hot Toddy is a comforting blend of bourbon, ginger, brown sugar, lemon, and Indian spices. A sip of this warming concoction dispels the chill and lifts your spirits. The term "toddy" finds its roots in the Indian word "taadi," referring to a fermented drink made from the sap of a toddy palm. British influence later added liquor and spices, giving rise to the classic cocktail we cherish today.
Mumbai Mule
There's the Moscow Mule, and then there's the Mumbai Mule. As for which one reigns supreme, that's a decision for your palate to make. Comprising vodka, ginger and spice syrup, lemon juice, and sparkling water, the Mumbai Mule boasts a unique blend of sweet, tart, warming, and soothing flavours that will surely enchant your taste buds.
Jamuntini
The Jamun fruit, also known as the Java Plum, is a luscious berry-like fruit native to India. It boasts a delightful combination of sweetness and tartness, accompanied by a subtle astringency, making it an ideal contender for crafting a fruity gin Martini with an exotic twist. Its splendid purple skin and flesh, when skillfully muddled for a Jamuntini, give rise to a singular pink and purple cocktail, offering a taste that is truly one-of-a-kind.
