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• October 4th is National Vodka Day

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Get your shot glasses ready — Sunday, Oct. 4 is National Vodka Day. This centuries-old liquor is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages and is consumed across the globe. To honor this clear, smooth spirit, here’s a list of reasons to celebrate the day. So crack open a handle and toast the night away!

Vodka gives you an excuse to speak with a Russian accent — While the precise origin of the drink is debatable, documents indicate that vodka production occurred in Russia during the eighth century. The name, vodka, actually stems from the Russian word ‘voda’, meaning water. The liquor was originally distilled for medicinal purposes but became the national drink of the country by the 1400s. In 1911, 90 percent of all alcohol consumed in Russia was vodka. However, its popularity didn’t extend outside of Europe until the 1950s. But by 1975, vodka replaced bourbon as the most popular hard liquor in the United States.

It gets the job done — For many years, the alcoholic content for beverages was relatively low, at or around 14 percent by volume. It wasn’t until the 8th century with the invention of distillation that drinks became stronger. Today, typical vodkas usually have an alcoholic content of 35 percent to 50 percent, or roughly 80 proof (the proof number is twice the alcoholic content of the drink). Russian chemist Dmitri Mendeleev found 38 percent alcohol or 76 proof to be the perfect proportion. What does this mean? The stronger the drink, the greater the chance of a Russian accent.

It has fewer calories than beer — Even the biggest health nuts have a drink from time to time. One 12-ounce beer has 150 calories, compared to 100 calories in a 1.5-ounce shot of 80 proof vodka. Therefore, vodka makes you less fat.

Jell-O Shots — Need we say more?

It can be mixed with anything — Traditional vodkas are tasteless and flavorless, making mixing ideal. It can be combined in tasty juice cocktails, like a screwdriver, or paired with a carbonated soda. To really add some zing, some companies even make chili and cinnamon flavored vodka. We’re crossing our fingers they’ll come out with Pickle soon.

So this Sunday, whether you’re raising a classy Martini or a home-made ShotSki, here’s to you, Vodka!

Smashing Pumpkin Martini

» 3 oz. Infused Spiced Pumpkin Vodka*

» 1 oz. Amaretto

» Toasted Pumpkin seeds for garnish

Combine ingredients in a martini shaker with ice. Stir gently and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

-If you can’t find the infused vodka, 2 ½ oz. of Stoli Cinnamon Vodka and ½ oz. of Bols Pumpkin Smash Liqueur are great substitutes.