(Photo by: Paul Kamon)
The Dankowskie Cocktail
by Jay Jones ~ head bartender at Voya at the Loden
Vodka just doesn’t get enough credit. Millions of cocktails have been made using Vodka, but hardly any about Vodka. The challenge is the purity of the spirit: by definition, Vodka is intended to have no distinguishing characteristics of appearance, aroma or flavour. Belvedere Vodka, though clean and clear, has a distinct style derived from the Dankowskie Gold Rye grain it is made of. Looking deeply into its profile, the Rye lends a gentle touch of spice, while there is creaminess to the palate and hints of vanilla and citrus. These characteristics are ever so discreet, but with the right accents, they can be announced much more distinctly.
Tuaca Liquore Italiano is made from brandy with flavours of orange and vanilla. It complements the Vodka, adds sweetness, colour and body, reflecting the same tastes in the Belvedere. Dashes of orange bitters increase the citrus nature, bringing a depth, and binding the other elements together. When folded, a fresh slice of orange skin releases bitter oil. When these oils are lit, the resulting flame caramelizes them and coats the surface of the drink with complex aromatics. The drink should be stirred, chilling and blending the ingredients, but never so cold that it hides the more subtle scents and tastes. The cocktail is full of aroma and flavour, but ultimately speaks the virtues of Belvedere Vodka itself. You could say that, by intention, the Dankowskie is to Belvedere Vodka, what the Manhattan is to Rye Whiskey.
Recipe
In a Cocktail Glass:
2 oz Belvedere Vodka
¾ oz Tuaca Liquore Italiano
2 dashes Regans’ Orange Bitters No.6
1 fresh orange peel
flame (lighter or match)
Method
-combine the Belvedere, Tuaca and orange bitters with ice in a mixing glass
-stir gently, chilling the liquid but without making it ice cold
-strain into a cocktail glass (unchilled)
-flame the orange peel by holding it next to the glass, squeezing its oils through flame, and across the surface of the finshed cocktail
-rub the rim with the peel and place it in the drink
