Ponte Vihno Verde

Ponte Vihno Verde is a vodka, and the listing doesn't state its base ingredient, proof or any flavoring. Treat it as a neutral spirit and check the label for the base and ABV. Vodkas in this category are usually made from grain, potato or corn. Grain bases tend to taste crisp and lightly peppery, potato gives a rounder and creamier texture, and corn reads slightly sweet. Unless the label says it is flavored, expect a clean, lightly aromatic spirit with a short finish. Despite the green-leaning name, there is no indication it carries any herbal or fruit character. That kind of profile suits drinks where the vodka needs to support other ingredients. In a Martini, stir it with ice and a little dry vermouth, then finish with a lemon twist or an olive. Dilution matters more than it seems, and about 30 seconds of stirring is a good target. For a Moscow Mule, pour it over plenty of ice with lime juice and a spicy ginger beer, preferably in a copper mug or a tall glass. The vodka stays out of the way while the ginger leads. A Bloody Mary can handle a vodka without much character, since tomato, horseradish, Worcestershire and hot sauce do most of the flavoring. A Cosmopolitan needs only a measure of vodka balanced with orange liqueur, cranberry and fresh lime juice. In an Espresso Martini, shake it hard with fresh espresso and coffee liqueur so the foam holds. To drink it neat, keep the bottle in the freezer. Cold temperatures thicken the texture and soften any alcohol bite. Serve it in a small chilled glass, or over a large cube in a rocks glass. For Martinis and Cosmopolitans, chill the stemmed glass beforehand. Neat vodka pairs well with salty, rich foods such as smoked fish, pickles, cured meats and buttered bread.