New Amster Pink Whitney

New Amster Pink Whitney is a vodka from Esplanda, made in Massachusetts. The name points to the pink lemonade flavored style, which is a sweetened, fruit-forward vodka and not a neutral one. The listing doesn't state the grain or other base, the proof, or the exact flavor profile, so check the label for those. Expect a lightly tart lemon note with a soft berry-pink sweetness, and a lower-proof, easier-drinking spirit than a standard 80-proof vodka. Flavored vodkas in this style behave differently from clean ones. The sweetness and citrus are already built in, so they work best in drinks that don't pile on more sugar. A Moscow Mule is a good fit: ginger beer and lime add spice and acidity that keep the pink lemonade character from turning cloying. A Cosmopolitan is another natural use. Cut back or drop the triple sec and cranberry, and let a squeeze of fresh lime balance the vodka's sweetness. A lemon-forward Martini variation or a simple vodka and soda with a lemon wheel will keep the flavor front and center. A classic dry Martini or a Bloody Mary is a poor match, because the fruit sweetness fights vermouth and tomato. Espresso Martinis are better made with a neutral vodka too. For neat or on-the-rocks drinking, serve it well chilled. Keep the bottle in the freezer or refrigerator and pour over ice in a rocks glass, or shake with ice and strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass. Cold temperature tightens the sweetness and brings out the citrus. A lemon twist or a few raspberries make a simple garnish. Lemonade, club soda, or sparkling water make easy long drinks. The vodka also pairs well with light, salty snacks such as pretzels, popcorn, or fried appetizers.