“Cocktail College” is brought to you today by Ketel One Vodka. Listeners, you know me if you’ve heard enough episodes, and you know I’m a firm believer that vodka has distinct and specific character. And I like trying it on its own, but I love it most in cocktails. Now in the case of today’s vodka, Ketel One, it’s made using a wheat base which gives it a crisp finish. And I love trying that out specifically in vodka Martinis. But it doesn’t stop there — I love taking it for a spin in Vespers, Cosmopolitans, Espresso Martinis, and even the Lemon Drop. We’ve got you covered here on “Cocktail College” with episodes on all of those drinks, but if you want to learn more about Ketel One’s superior vodka, head over to www.ketelone.com today. Please Drink Responsibly. KETEL ONE Vodka. Distilled from Grain. 40% Alc./Vol. Double Eagle Brands, B.V. Imported by Ketel One USA, Aliso Viejo, CA

Regular listeners of “Cocktail College” know that we’ve always been champions of vodka. After all, it’s been ranked as one of the top three most popular spirits in the U.S. for decades, and the whole idea of hospitality — in our minds, at least — is giving the people what they want. However, an even more compelling argument in favor of vodka is the one belonging to Dennis Tamse, the Global Relationships Director for the Nolet Distillery.

As Tamse puts it, vodka holds the unique capacity and ability to amplify all of the other ingredients in a cocktail. It’s a catalyst for boosting flavors and aromas while simultaneously not dramatically impacting that profile. Another thing we’ve always believed is that to appreciate what separates a good vodka from a truly great one is understanding how it’s made and how those processes influence its final profile.

On this episode of “Cocktail College,” we’re shifting our gaze from individual cocktails momentarily to explore a single ingredient: vodka. Joining us to do so is Tamse himself, who will be guiding us through a spirited deep dive on the category. This being “Cocktail College,” there will also be some Martini discussion, including Dennis’ preferred Vodka Martini recipe. Tune in for more.

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Dennis Tamse’s Vodka Martini Recipe

Ingredients

  • 50 milliliters Ketel One vodka
  • 20 milliliters dry vermouth
  • Garnish: lemon twist and olive

Directions

  1. Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice.
  2. Stir until well chilled.
  3. Strain into a chilled Nick & Nora or coupe glass.
  4. Garnish with a small lemon twist and a chilled olive.

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Tim McKirdy
Ketel One

This podcast is sponsored by Ketel One.