Bison Grass Vodka is a type of flavored vodka that is traditionally distilled in Poland and other parts of Eastern Europe. The vodka is infused with the essence of bison grass, a sweet-smelling plant that is native to the region.
Bison grass (also known as Hierochloe odorata) is a type of aromatic grass that has a unique flavor and aroma. It is sometimes referred to as “sweet grass” because of its sweet, vanilla-like scent. The plant is also believed to have medicinal properties and has been used in traditional folk remedies for centuries.
To make Bison Grass Vodka, the bison grass is steeped in the vodka for several days, allowing the essential oils and flavors to infuse into the spirit. The vodka is then filtered and bottled, ready for consumption.
Bison Grass Vodka has a distinct flavor profile that is herbaceous and slightly sweet, with notes of vanilla and cinnamon. It is often served chilled and can be enjoyed on its own or mixed into cocktails. In Poland, it is commonly served with apple juice as a refreshing summer drink.
10 Bison Grass Vodka Cocktails Recipes
- The Bison Grass Martini: Combine 2 oz. of Bison Grass Vodka with 1 oz. of dry vermouth in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.
- The Grasshopper: In a shaker, combine 1 oz. of Bison Grass Vodka, 1 oz. of green crème de menthe, and 1 oz. of cream. Shake well with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
- The Bison Grass and Tonic: Fill a tall glass with ice, add 2 oz. of Bison Grass Vodka, and top with tonic water. Garnish with a slice of lime.
- The Polish Kiss: In a shaker, combine 1 1/2 oz. of Bison Grass Vodka, 1 oz. of raspberry liqueur, and 1 oz. of cranberry juice. Shake well with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- The Eastern Promises: Combine 1 1/2 oz. of Bison Grass Vodka, 1 oz. of triple sec, and 1 oz. of fresh lime juice in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a lime wheel.
- The Grasshopper 2.0: In a shaker, combine 2 oz. of Bison Grass Vodka, 1 oz. of crème de cacao, and 1 oz. of heavy cream. Shake well with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
- The Green Light: In a shaker, combine 2 oz. of Bison Grass Vodka, 1 oz. of green Chartreuse, and 1 oz. of fresh lime juice. Shake well with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a lime wheel.
- The Polish Apple: In a shaker, muddle 2 slices of Granny Smith apple with 1 oz. of simple syrup. Add 2 oz. of Bison Grass Vodka, 1 oz. of lemon juice, and ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a slice of apple.
- The Grass Cutter: In a shaker, combine 2 oz. of Bison Grass Vodka, 1 oz. of fresh lemon juice, 1/2 oz. of honey syrup, and a sprig of fresh thyme. Shake well with ice and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Top with club soda and garnish with a lemon wheel and thyme sprig.
- The Grasslands: In a shaker, combine 2 oz. of Bison Grass Vodka, 1 oz. of Aperol, and 1 oz. of fresh grapefruit juice. Shake well with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a grapefruit twist.
3 New Unique Cocktail Recipes
Bison’s Breath
- 2 oz. Bison Grass Vodka
- 1 oz. fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz. honey syrup
- 1/4 oz. absinthe
- Fresh mint leaves
In a shaker, muddle a few mint leaves with the honey syrup. Add the Bison Grass Vodka, lime juice, absinthe, and ice. Shake well and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with a sprig of mint.
Wild Grass
- 2 oz. Bison Grass Vodka
- 1 oz. fresh grapefruit juice
- 1/2 oz. Aperol
- 1/4 oz. green Chartreuse
In a shaker, combine all ingredients with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a grapefruit twist.
Bison’s Paradise
- 2 oz. Bison Grass Vodka
- 1 oz. fresh pineapple juice
- 1/2 oz. fresh lime juice
- 1/4 oz. Orgeat syrup
In a shaker, combine all ingredients with ice. Shake well and strain into a tiki glass filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a cherry.
About Bison Grass Vodka
Origin: Bison Grass Vodka, also known as Zubrowka, originated in Poland and has been produced since the 16th century. It is a type of flavored vodka made with bison grass, which is native to the Białowieża Forest in Poland and Belarus.
Ingredients: Bison Grass Vodka is made from a base of rye or wheat vodka, and is flavored with an extract of the aromatic bison grass, which contains the natural coumarin compound.
Flavor: Bison Grass Vodka has a unique and complex flavor profile, with notes of vanilla, almond, and cinnamon, along with a slightly sweet and grassy taste. The coumarin in the bison grass provides a subtle bitterness and spicy aroma.
Proof: The proof of Bison Grass Vodka can vary depending on the brand and the specific product, but it is typically around 80 proof (40% ABV).
Usage: Bison Grass Vodka is often enjoyed as a sipping vodka, served neat or over ice. It is also commonly used in cocktails, particularly in Eastern European and Russian recipes.
Serving: Bison Grass Vodka is traditionally served chilled, either straight or mixed in a cocktail. It is also commonly served with apple juice or soda in Poland, where it is known as “szarlotka” or “apple pie.”
Production: Bison Grass Vodka is produced by infusing the vodka with bison grass extract, which is typically made by steeping dried bison grass in high-proof vodka. The vodka is then distilled to create a smooth, flavorful spirit.
Manufacturer: Bison Grass Vodka is produced by several different brands, including Zubrówka, which is one of the most well-known and widely available brands.
Variations: There are some variations of Bison Grass Vodka available, including flavored versions that incorporate additional ingredients like honey, ginger, or cherry. Some brands also produce limited edition or specialty bottlings that may be aged or made using different production methods.
Bison Grass Vodka is a versatile spirit that can be used in a wide range of cocktails. Some common mixers that pair well with Bison Grass Vodka include citrus juices (like lemon or lime), fruit juices (like apple or pineapple), and sparkling sodas. Other ingredients that complement the grassy and herbal flavors of Bison Grass Vodka include ginger beer, honey, and Chartreuse. It is also commonly used in Eastern European and Russian cocktails, often mixed with ingredients like sour cherry juice, cranberry juice, or mint. Some bartenders also like to use Bison Grass Vodka as a substitute for gin in classic cocktails like the Negroni or the Aviation.