Today is October 1st and it is “legal” to start the Halloween festivities! And since it is Friday, what better way to get in the mood than to have a triple play of unique Halloween cocktails? What makes these cocktails unique is the black vodka.
Blavod Black Vodka is the original black vodka made in the UK and gets its black color from Catechu, an herb made from the Acacia bush found in southern Asia which gives it a light herbaly flavor to the vodka. Blavod is fun for the flavor and the look but it doesn’t just rely on the wow factor of being a black vodka, it really delivers with a smooth, slightly spicy finish as well.
Ghost in the Graveyard
2 ounces black vodka
2 ounces creme de cacao or coffee-flavored liqueur
1 scoop vanilla ice cream
Pinch of finely grated nutmeg, for garnish. In a glass, combine vodka and creme de cacao, and set aside. Place a scoop of ice cream in a highball glass, and slowly pour vodka mixture over ice cream. Garnish with nutmeg; serve immediately.
Screwed-Up Screwdriver
1/4 cup ice
1/2 cup freshly squeezed tangerine juice
1 1/2 ounces black vodka
1 black licorice twist, for serving
1/2 cup freshly squeezed tangerine juice
1 1/2 ounces black vodka
1 black licorice twist, for serving
Place ice in a tall glass. Pour juice into glass. Pour vodka over the back of a cocktail spoon into glass so it sits on top of juice and creates a layer of black. Slice 1/4 inch off each end of licorice, and use as a straw. Serve immediately.
Berry Scary Martini
1 cup ice
1 ounce black vodka
2 ounces cherry juice
Fresh raspberries and blueberries, for garnish
Combine ice, vodka, and cherry juice in a cocktail shaker; shake vigorously. Pour into a martini glass. Thread raspberries and blueberries onto a cocktail skewer, and place in drink. Serve immediately.
The layered affect is great for the presentation but once served you might want to mix it up since all the alcohol is on the top and that could send you to the graveyard fast! Remember to have fun, keep it creepy and drink responsibly!
Photo credit: black vodka cocktail tray by marthastewart.com
