Fans are already raving about the newly launched vodka online saying it's 'superb'

With many of us turning our attention to al fresco entertaining this spring, finding the perfect refreshment to accompany a BBQ or garden party can prove a challenge. Drinks with a little kick have been everywhere of late, with the likes of Picantes and Spicy Margaritas becoming hugely popular among drinkers and social media users.

Now, vodka expert Absolut has launched a new spicy TABASCO® version of the spirit, and drinkers say it's their 'spicy Bloody Mary secret.' The Absolut can be purchased from Ocado for £22.70, and is described on the retailer's website as offering the 'perfect balance of heat and flavour.'

For those wondering how to serve the tipple, it's already proving popular among fans for crafting homemade Bloody Mary cocktails for brunch, or it could even be used in a Spicy Vodkarita, which is ideal for those who are partial to a marg. Those who fancy something a little simpler may wish to make a Spicy Lemonade, which according to a recipe on Ocado's website requires a shot of the hot vodka, served with the soft drink and a wheel of lemon, alongside an optional chilli garnish for those who like an extra kick.

Picantes and Spicy Margaritas

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The secret to the Absolut TABASCO®'s taste is the mix of Swedish vodka and the taste of the fermented red pepper mash used to make the TABASCO® brand's sauce. The result is a smooth tipple that captures the flavour of the famous hot sauce in liquid form.

Elsewhere, those wanting a vodka with a dash of flavour may also wish to check out Smirnoff's Cherry Drop Vodka which can be purchased at Amazon for £16.25 for 70cl (was £19.25). Meanwhile, at Au Vodka, we've also spotted the £34.99 70cl Juicy Peach flavour, which sounds ideal for summer drinks.

According to Absolut, the Technomic Flavor Trends Report 2020 says nearly 59% of 18-34 year olds say they prefer very spicy flavours, and it seems many reviewers might just agree. Drinkers who have left reviews for the Absolut TABASCO® at Amazon - where it can also be purchased - have been left impressed.

Smirnoff Cherry Drop Vodka

One said: "Spicy Bloody Mary secret. Stick 50ml over ice with Pickle House spiced tomato juice for the PERFECT spicy Bloody Mary.

"Be fancy with a cornichon garnish if ya want, I prefer a simple lemon slice, but that's just me. Banging."

Meanwhile, another raved: "Superb for Bloody Marys. Bought this for Bloody Marys and perfect rate of hotness!

"I grew up with Cajun and various hot ethnic foods, and this is the perfect heat for the kick that Bloody Mary needs. Typical Absolut vodka smoothness with the expertly blended best of Tabasco. Make your best brunch Bloody Mary at home.

Bloody Mary

"Highly recommended and Bloody Marys are one of my fave drinks. There's no other vodka for them now that I've tried this!"

It is, of course, worth noting that, as with anything food and drink related, tastes may vary from person to person, and given that Absolut says 'even spice lovers will find this too hot to handle', those sensitive to heat may find the drink a little on the spicy side.

One reviewer said: "Very overpowering smell of Tabasco, not worth it. You're better off buying original and making your own Bloody Mary with Tabasco. Gave my bottle away, stick to original Absolut only, but other flavours for Absolut are great. It's a great brand I love, but this was my first dislike."

Despite this, another disagreed, commenting: "Good chilli kick. It's got a bigger chilli kick than expected but makes the most amazing Bloody Mary."

Be fancy with a cornichon garnish if ya want, I prefer a simple lemon slice, but that's just me. Banging.

Why this lands now

Whether it is a new format, a revived classic or a regional speciality, the question that decides its fate is usually the same: does it survive its first summer?

What to remember

  • Fans are already raving about the newly launched vodka online saying it's 'superb'
  • With many of us turning our attention to al fresco entertaining this spring, finding the perfect refreshment to accompany a BBQ or garden party can prove a challenge
  • The secret to the Absolut TABASCO®'s taste is the mix of Swedish vodka and the taste of the fermented red pepper mash used to make the TABASCO® brand's sauce
  • Elsewhere, those wanting a vodka with a dash of flavour may also wish to check out Smirnoff's Cherry Drop Vodka which can be purchased at Amazon for £16.25 for 70cl (was £19.25)
  • According to Absolut, the Technomic Flavor Trends Report 2020 says nearly 59% of 18-34 year olds say they prefer very spicy flavours

Figures worth noting

  • According to Absolut, the Technomic Flavor Trends Report 2020 says nearly 59% of 18-34 year olds say they prefer very spicy flavours, and it seems many reviewers might just agree
  • Stick 50ml over ice with Pickle House spiced tomato juice for the PERFECT spicy Bloody Mary

In short

As always on the drinks list, the gap between what gets announced and what actually reaches people is where the real story will be decided.