New Amsterdam Vanilla Vodka

New Amsterdam Vanilla is a flavored vodka from Massachusetts, a bottling that sits between a neutral spirit and a dessert-style liqueur. Flavored vodkas in this style typically start from a clean grain-based neutral spirit and add vanilla flavoring, so expect a smooth, lightly sweet vanilla aroma and a soft, rounded texture rather than the sharp edge of an unflavored vodka. The details we have don't list a base grain, ABV, or proof, so check the label for those. The vanilla character in this category usually reads as creamy and baked-custard rather than floral or spicy, and it tends to carry through to a clean finish. Because the flavor is already built in, this bottle works best where vanilla is welcome. An Espresso Martini is the clearest fit: vanilla smooths the bitterness of coffee and coffee liqueur, so you can often cut back on added syrup. Shake it hard with ice so the drink holds a thick foam, and strain it into a chilled coupe or martini glass. A Moscow Mule with vanilla vodka drinks softer than the classic. Pair it with a sharp, spicy ginger beer and a generous squeeze of lime so the sweetness stays in check, and serve it over ice in a copper mug or tall glass. A Cosmopolitan is another good use. Vanilla rounds off the tartness of cranberry and lime, but keep the triple sec measure modest because the vodka already adds sweetness. A Martini or Bloody Mary is a less natural match. A dry Martini depends on a neutral spirit, and vanilla would compete with the vermouth. In a Bloody Mary, vanilla clashes with savory spice and tomato, so use an unflavored vodka there. Simple mixers pair well with it: cola, ginger ale, soda water with a lemon wedge, or cream soda for a float-style drink. For sipping or mixing, serve it well chilled. Storing the bottle in the freezer thickens the texture slightly and tones down the sweetness. Pour it neat into a small glass, or over a large ice cube in a rocks glass, and let the ice dilute it a little. A martini glass suits the shaken, stirred and chilled cocktails above. Vanilla vodka also pairs well with desserts such as apple pie, crème brûlée, chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream, and works as an ingredient in them.