New-Drinks Update

• Kajmir: This blend of brandy, vodka and vanilla from Centerra Wine Co. is lighter in alcohol (40 proof, or 20% alcohol by volume) than most boutique blends on the market. Its aimed at the 25-45 age demographic which has more than doubled its flavored spirits purchases in the past four years, according to "IMPACT Databank: 2005 Edition." It's being sold in 50, 375 and 750ml sizes at a suggested retail price of $18.99 for the 750ml bottle. Kajmir is blended and bottled by Kajmir Distillers in Bardstown, KY.

• FireFly:This vodka is a South Carolina product, for the most part. It's flavored with muscadine wine made from grapes grown on Wadmalaw Island, introduced to the vodka at a distillery in Florida. It's in a clear bottle with a blue label, and sells for about $16.99 a fifth. It received an 89 rating ("highly recommended") from the Beverage Testing Institute in May 2006.

• Cavalli: Noted Italian fashion designer Roberto Cavalli has added to his spirits line by launching a new customised vodka presented in a 750ml frosted bottle with a glass serpent. It made its debut at the iconic Harrods department store in London priced at £65. That's $125+ in U.S. currency.

To Dowd's Spirits Notebook latest entry.
To Dowd's Wine Notebook latest entry.
To Dowd's Brews Notebook latest entry.
Back to Dowd On Drinks home page.