Smirnoff Watermelon Vodka

Smirnoff Watermelon Vodka is a flavored vodka bottled at 35% ABV (70 proof), a little lighter than the 40% standard for unflavored vodka. It is made in Connecticut. The lower strength is typical of flavored vodkas. It keeps the watermelon character in front and makes the spirit easier to mix and sip. Flavored expressions like this usually start from a neutral grain spirit with natural and artificial flavoring added. Expect a clean, light-bodied base with a sweet, juicy watermelon note that reads more like fresh-cut melon or watermelon candy than like a dry, savory spirit. Because the flavor is the point, this bottle suits drinks that welcome fruit and sweetness. It has little of the peppery, grainy bite that makes an unflavored vodka suited to a dry Martini or a Bloody Mary. A watermelon Martini is the obvious use: shake with a splash of lime juice and a little simple syrup or triple sec, then strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass. A Cosmopolitan variation also works well, swapping the plain vodka for this one and keeping the cranberry and lime. Styles like this usually pair well with citrus, which keeps the sweetness from becoming cloying. For a long drink, a Moscow Mule variation with lime juice and ginger beer works well, since the ginger's spice balances the melon. Lemonade, club soda with a squeeze of lime, or lemon-lime soda over ice make simple highballs. Fresh mint, basil or a pinch of salt on the glass rim also brings out the melon. Espresso Martinis and Bloody Marys are poor matches. The coffee and tomato flavors would clash with the fruit. To drink it neat or as a shot, keep the bottle in the freezer. Cold mutes the sweetness and gives the vodka a smoother, thicker texture. Serve it well chilled in a small glass, or pour it over ice in a rocks glass with a lime wedge. For batch cocktails, mix it with fresh watermelon juice or a splash of soda and pour over ice. This stretches the flavor without overpowering it.