Drinks

  • Best Vodka Drinks When Cold Outside in Canada

    We all know it has been absolutely freezing out lately here in Canada, and as the winter goes on, it keeps getting colder by the day. When it’s cold outside, warming vodka-based drinks can be a comforting choice. Check out the below best vodka drinks to keep you warm throughout these cold winter days in Canada.

    Canadian Winter Vodka Drinks:

    1. Hot White Russian

    • Ingredients: Vodka, coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa), hot coffee, and cream or milk.
    • Why it works: The hot coffee adds warmth, and the cream makes it rich and cozy.

    2. Vodka Hot Toddy

    • Ingredients: Vodka, hot water, honey, lemon juice, and a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
    • Why it works: A soothing, warm drink perfect for chilly evenings.

    3. Spiked Hot Chocolate

    • Ingredients: Vodka (or vanilla-flavoured vodka), hot chocolate, whipped cream, and a sprinkle of cocoa or cinnamon on top.
    • Why it works: Decadent and sweet, this is great for warming up after being in the cold.

    4. Mulled Cranberry Punch

    • Ingredients: Vodka, cranberry juice, apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices. Heat gently in a pot.
    • Why it works: The spices and fruit flavours make it festive and warming.

    5. Peppermint Vodka Cocoa

    • Ingredients: Vodka, peppermint schnapps, hot cocoa, whipped cream, and crushed candy canes for garnish.
    • Why it works: The peppermint is refreshing, while the cocoa keeps it comforting and warm.

    6. Warm Apple Pie Cocktail

    • Ingredients: Vodka, warm apple cider, a dash of cinnamon, and whipped cream on top.
    • Why it works: The apple and cinnamon flavours evoke the warmth of a holiday pie.

    7. Russian Tea Cocktail

    • Ingredients: Vodka, hot black tea, honey, lemon, and a touch of orange liqueur.
    • Why it works: The tea adds warmth, while the vodka and citrus give it a kick.

    8. Hot Spiced Moscow Mule

    • Ingredients: Vodka, ginger beer (heated gently), lime juice, and a cinnamon stick for garnish.
    • Why it works: A twist on the classic Moscow Mule, with a warm and spicy element.

    The above 8 drinks will definitely help with the cold breeze coming in outside here in Canada this winter and we highly recommend!

  • Making Your Vodka Cocktails Visually Appealing

    Making cocktails visually appealing adds to the overall experience and makes your drinks stand out from the rest. Below you will find some cool hacks to enhance the presentation of your cocktails to show off to your friends and family.

    Making Your Vodka Cocktails Stand Out in Canada

    1. Glassware Matters

    • Use the right glass for the cocktail (e.g., martini glass, highball, coupe).
    • Chill or frost the glass for an elegant touch.

    2. Garnishes

    • Classic Options: Lemon, lime, orange twists, or wedges.
    • Creative Choices: Edible flowers, fresh herbs (e.g., mint, rosemary), or exotic fruits like starfruit or dragon fruit slices.
    • Unique Ideas: Use dehydrated citrus slices, sugared berries, or cinnamon sticks.

    3. Layered Effects

    • Pour ingredients with different densities carefully to create layers (e.g., grenadine, juices, spirits).
    • Use the back of a spoon to pour gently.

    4. Use Clear Ice

    • Large, clear ice cubes or spheres add sophistication.
    • You can make clear ice by freezing boiled or distilled water in a cooler.

    5. Colour Coordination

    • Match the drink’s colour to the garnish or theme (e.g., a blue cocktail with a sprig of lavender).
    • Use colourful syrups, liqueurs, or juices for vibrancy.

    6. Decorative Rims

    • Dip the rim of your glass in lime juice or syrup, then coat with:
      • Salt: For margaritas.
      • Sugar: For sweeter drinks.
      • Spices: Like cinnamon, chili powder, or cocoa.

    7. Fancy Tools and Accessories

    • Use cocktail picks, skewers, or stirrers to hold garnishes.
    • Add small umbrellas, themed straws, or glowing ice cubes for fun.

    8. Smoky or Foggy Effects

    • Use dry ice for a dramatic fog effect (ensure safety precautions).
    • Smoke a glass or garnish with a culinary torch for a smoky aroma.

    9. Serve with Style

    • Present cocktails on a tray or with a complementary napkin.
    • Use coasters or placemats that match the theme.

    10. Practice Simplicity

    • Sometimes less is more—stick to one or two focal points to avoid clutter.

    With a little creativity and attention to detail, your cocktails will not only taste amazing but also look social media-worthy!

  • How to Measure Cocktails without a Shot Glass

    If you don’t have a shot glass to measure your vodka drink in Canada, you can still measure cocktails accurately using common household items. Below you will see how to approximate a standard shot (1.5 ounces or 44 milliliters) to make that perfect drink.

    Measuring Cocktails in Canada

    1. Using a Tablespoon

    • Standard Shot = 3 Tablespoons:
      Each tablespoon holds 0.5 ounces (15 milliliters), so three tablespoons equal one standard shot.

    2. Using a Teaspoon

    • Standard Shot = 9 Teaspoons:
      Each teaspoon holds about 0.167 ounces (5 milliliters), so nine teaspoons equal one standard shot.

    3. Measuring Cups

    • Look for milliliter markings:
      A shot is approximately 44 milliliters. Use a measuring cup for precise measurement.
    • If the measuring cup only shows ounces, measure 1.5 ounces.

    4. Using a Standard Water Bottle Cap

    • A typical water bottle cap holds roughly 0.5 ounces (15 milliliters).
      • Standard Shot = 3 Bottle Caps.

    5. Eyeballing with Common Objects

    • Tablespoon-Sized Spoon: Use any spoon similar in size to a tablespoon.
    • Wine Cork: A standard wine cork can hold around 1 ounce when used as a small container.

    Tips for Accuracy in Making the Perfect Cocktail in Canada

    • If you’re mixing for multiple servings, use a larger measurement (like a cup) and scale the recipe proportionally.
    • Precision improves with practice—so note your approximations and adjust to taste!

    Above are just a few hacks in order to measure your next perfect vodka drink for a cocktail, enjoy!

  • Why Vodka & Coffee Work Well Together

    For years, people have been mixing their two favourite drinks, coffee and vodka. Why do they work so well together you might ask? It’s because they balance each other’s flavours and effects in a complementary way.

    Below are just a few of the reasons why they blend so perfectly with each other:

    The Reasons Coffee & Vodka Blend Together:

    1. Flavour Contrast and Balance: Vodka is clean and relatively neutral, allowing coffee’s rich, bold flavours to stand out. Coffee’s bitter and slightly acidic notes are softened by vodka, resulting in a smoother taste. When mixed, the bitterness of coffee contrasts with the subtle sweetness in vodka, creating a well-rounded, layered flavour profile.
    2. Complex Aromatics: Coffee brings aromatic depth with its roasted notes, which combine with vodka’s slight grainy or fruity undertones (depending on the brand). This can make cocktails with coffee and vodka feel richer and more sophisticated.
    3. Balanced Strength: Coffee’s stimulating effects can balance vodka’s relaxing qualities, providing an enjoyable and complex drinking experience. For example, espresso in an Espresso Martini can provide a mild caffeine kick that energizes while keeping you relaxed from the vodka.
    4. Versatile Base: Vodka’s neutrality makes it adaptable for various coffee styles and additions like cream, liqueurs, or syrups. This versatility allows for a range of drinks, from creamy White Russians to light coffee sodas.

    This combo gives you a cocktail that’s strong but smooth, sophisticated but easy to enjoy, making it a popular choice for both coffee and cocktail lovers!

    Below are just a few create ideas of a beautiful range of the perfect vodka and coffee cocktails:

    Vodka and Coffee Cocktails:

    1. Espresso Martini

    • Ingredients: 2 oz vodka, 0.5 oz coffee liqueur, 1 oz freshly brewed espresso, 0.5 oz simple syrup
    • Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled martini glass, and garnish with coffee beans.

    2. Black Russian

    • Ingredients: 2 oz vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur
    • Instructions: Pour vodka and coffee liqueur over ice in a rocks glass and stir.

    3. White Russian

    • Ingredients: 2 oz vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, 1 oz heavy cream
    • Instructions: Pour vodka and coffee liqueur over ice, float heavy cream on top, and stir lightly.

    4. Cold Brew Martini

    • Ingredients: 1.5 oz vodka, 1 oz cold brew coffee, 0.5 oz coffee liqueur, 0.5 oz simple syrup
    • Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a martini glass, and garnish with coffee beans.

    5. Coffee Mule

    • Ingredients: 2 oz vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, 4 oz ginger beer, splash of cold coffee
    • Instructions: Combine vodka, coffee liqueur, and ginger beer over ice in a mule mug. Top with cold coffee and garnish with a lime wedge.

    Vodka & Coffee, the Perfect Blend

    The above coffee and vodka recipes are just very few cocktails for you coffee lovers, you can most definitely indulge and experience in any way you find to make your perfect cocktail.

  • 10 Summer Party Vodka Ideas

    Try These fun VODKA summer party ideas

    ### 1. **Vodka Tasting Party**
    – **Theme:** Host a vodka tasting event where guests can sample different types of vodka. You can include flavored vodkas, craft brands, and even some infused vodkas you make yourself.
    – **Pairings:** Provide mixers and garnishes, like fresh fruits, herbs, and juices, so guests can experiment with their own cocktails.

    ### 2. **DIY Vodka Cocktail Bar**
    – **Setup:** Create a DIY cocktail station with various mixers, fruits, syrups, and herbs. Guests can craft their own drinks, like Moscow Mules, Bloody Marys, or custom creations.
    – **Games:** Include cocktail-making competitions where the best drink wins a prize.

    ### 3. **Frozen Vodka Slushie Station**
    – **Options:** Set up a slushie machine or blender with different flavored mixes. Add vodka to create refreshing frozen cocktails.
    – **Flavors:** Popular choices include strawberry, mango, and piña colada.

    ### 4. **Vodka-Infused Fruit Party**
    – **Preparation:** Infuse fruits like watermelon, strawberries, and pineapples with vodka. Chill them and serve as boozy treats.
    – **Presentation:** Serve them in a fruit bowl or on skewers for easy snacking.

    ### 5. **Vodka Popsicle Party**
    – **Recipe:** Make homemade vodka-infused popsicles using juice, pureed fruits, and vodka.
    – **Variety:** Offer a variety of flavors like lemon-lime, berry, or tropical.

    ### 6. **Poolside Vodka Cocktails**
    – **Cocktails:** Offer classic poolside drinks like Vodka Lemonade, Vodka Collins, or Sea Breeze.
    – **Presentation:** Serve drinks in fun, colorful glasses or floatable drink holders.

    ### 7. **Vodka Jello Shots**
    – **Flavors:** Create jello shots in different colors and flavors. You can even layer them for a more festive look.
    – **Molds:** Use fun molds like stars or shells for a summer vibe.

    ### 8. **Sangria with a Vodka Twist**
    – **Mix:** Make a batch of summer sangria, but with vodka instead of the usual brandy. Mix with white wine, fruits, and a splash of soda.
    – **Serving:** Serve in large pitchers with plenty of fresh fruit.

    ### 9. **Outdoor Movie Night with Vodka Cocktails**
    – **Theme:** Set up an outdoor movie screen, and serve themed vodka cocktails to go with the movie.
    – **Cocktails:** Choose drinks that match the film, like a “Cosmo” for a classic movie night.

    ### 10. **Beach or Lakeside Picnic with Vodka Coolers**
    – **Prep:** Pack portable vodka coolers made with lemonade, iced tea, or coconut water.
    – **Activity:** Pair with beach games like volleyball, frisbee, or paddleboarding.

    These ideas can help you create a memorable summer party with vodka as the star! Enjoy and CHACHA 🚀

  • 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!

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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