CHACHA Premium Canadian Vodka - The Perfect Balance-- Food Pairing

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 🚀
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 🙏
Infused VODKA DIY Flavouring Techniques

Infused VODKA DIY Flavouring Techniques

Creating infused vodka at home is a fun and easy way to experiment with flavours and personalize your drinks. The process involves steeping ingredients in vodka until it takes on their flavours.

Here’s a guide to help you master DIY infused vodka:

### Equipment Needed:
– A clean, airtight jar or bottle
– A fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth
– A funnel (for transferring vodka into containers)

### Choosing Your Vodka:
– Start with a neutral, unflavored vodka. Higher quality vodka generally yields a smoother infusion.
– The proof of the vodka can affect infusion; 80-proof (40% alcohol by volume) is standard and works well.

### Selecting Your Flavoring Ingredients:
Almost anything can be used to flavor vodka, but here are some popular options:
– **Fruits:** Berries, citrus peels, pineapple, apple, pear
– **Herbs and Spices:** Basil, mint, rosemary, cinnamon, vanilla bean
– **Vegetables:** Cucumber, chili peppers
– **Others:** Coffee beans, cocoa nibs, lavender

### Infusion Process:
1. **Prepare Ingredients:** Wash fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Cut larger items into smaller pieces to increase the surface area for a stronger infusion. For spices, crushing them slightly can help release their flavors.

2. **Combine Vodka and Ingredients:** Place your chosen ingredients into the jar or bottle, then pour vodka over them until completely submerged. The amount of flavoring ingredient you use will depend on the strength of flavour desired and the potency of the ingredients themselves.

3. **Seal and Store:** Tightly seal the container. Store it in a cool, dark place. The length of time you should infuse the vodka depends on the ingredients:
– **Fruits and Vegetables:** 3-7 days
– **Herbs and Spices:** 1-2 weeks
– **Harder Ingredients (like vanilla beans and cinnamon sticks):** Up to a month

Taste your infusion every day or so. Once it reaches your desired flavor intensity, it’s time to finish the process.

4. **Strain:** Use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove all solid particles from the vodka. If necessary, strain multiple times to ensure clarity.

5. **Bottle:** Transfer the strained vodka into a clean bottle. Use a funnel if needed. Seal the bottle and label it with the flavor and date.

6. **Store:** Keep your infused vodka in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator. Most infusions keep well for several months.

### Tips for Successful Infusion:
– **Balance Your Flavors:** Start with smaller amounts of flavoring ingredients. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away once it’s too strong.
– **Keep It Clean:** Ensure all your equipment and ingredients are clean to avoid introducing any unwanted bacteria into your infusion.
– **Experiment:** Don’t be afraid to try combining different flavors, such as strawberry-basil or cucumber-lime.

### Serving Suggestions:
Infused vodkas can be enjoyed on their own, over ice, or as a base for cocktails. They also make great gifts when bottled attractively.

Infusing vodka at home allows for endless creativity and customization. Have fun experimenting with different flavours and combinations to create your own signature blends!
VODKA Pasta Sauce Recipe

Vodka pasta sauce, often known as “Penne alla”

This vodka pasta recipe is a creamy, tomato-based sauce with a smooth texture and a slight kick from the vodka, which enhances the flavour of the tomatoes.

Here’s a classic recipe for vodka pasta sauce:

### Ingredients:

– 1 lb (450g) penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup vodka
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

### Instructions:

1. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. **Sauté Onion and Garlic:** In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. **Deglaze with Vodka:** Pour in the vodka and allow it to simmer for about 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol. Be careful as the vodka may flame if the pan is very hot. If it does, cover the pan until the flames die down.

4. **Add Tomatoes:** Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes to thicken slightly and allow the flavors to meld.

5. **Finish with Cream and Cheese:** Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

6. **Combine Pasta and Sauce:** Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing well to coat the pasta evenly.

7. **Serve:** Serve the pasta garnished with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

### Tips:

– **Vodka Substitution:** If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can omit the vodka. The sauce will still be delicious but won’t have the unique flavor that vodka brings to the dish.
– **Spiciness:** Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preference for spiciness.
– **Quality Ingredients:** For the best results, use high-quality tomatoes and a good brand of vodka; the flavors really do make a difference.

Enjoy your delicious vodka pasta sauce with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal! And always CHACHA! 😀
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?

Try These fun VODKA summer party ideas

The LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario)

Initiated its First-ever Strike

Key Issues and Impacts:

Infused VODKA DIY Flavouring Techniques

Vodka pasta sauce, often known as “Penne alla”

Best Foods to Eat & CHACHA

Give

Caviar

Smoked Salmon

Pickled Herring

Ingredients

Oysters

Spicy Cuisine

Cheese

Light Appetizers

Scandinavian Cuisine

Dark Chocolate

CHACHA! We Hope YOU Enjoy?

More About CHACHA