Elit Eighteen Vodka

Elit Eighteen is a vodka, and the details on file don't give its base ingredient, proof or distillation method. The notes below describe what vodkas in this category usually do and how to use them, not a measured profile of this bottle. Vodka is made to be neutral, so expect a clean, lightly textured spirit. Depending on the base, grain, potato or corn, the feel can run from crisp and dry to slightly rounder and softer. Unflavored vodka of this kind doesn't take over a drink. It supplies alcohol and structure, and the other ingredients carry the flavor. That neutrality suits drinks where the mixer matters. In a Moscow Mule, it works with ginger beer and lime in a copper mug or highball over plenty of ice, and it lets the ginger heat come through. A Bloody Mary needs a vodka that stays out of the way of tomato juice, horseradish, Worcestershire and pepper. A Cosmopolitan, built with orange liqueur, cranberry and lime, relies on a clean base to keep the tart-sweet balance in order. An Espresso Martini uses the vodka as a quiet backbone under coffee and coffee liqueur, so the roast stays in front. For a Martini, stir the vodka with ice and strain it into a chilled glass. Add a little dry vermouth and finish with a lemon twist or olives, depending on how dry you want it. To drink it neat, keep the bottle in the freezer. Cold thickens the texture slightly and softens any alcohol bite. Serve it well chilled in a small martini glass, or over a large cube in a rocks glass. If you're pouring it straight, salty or briny foods are the classic match: smoked fish, pickles, cured meats and cold canapés.