Kremlin Colonel Cocktail Recipe

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Kremlin Colonel Nutrition Facts

Calories:180

Fat:0g

Protein:0g

Carbohydrates:13g

Alcohol:14%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: January 7, 2024

History

The Kremlin Colonel is a variation of the classic Mint Julep cocktail, which originated in the southern United States in the 18th century. The Kremlin Colonel replaces the bourbon typically used in a Mint Julep with Russian vodka, giving it a unique twist. This cocktail is popular among those who enjoy the refreshing taste of a Mint Julep but prefer the smoothness of vodka over bourbon.

How Kremlin Colonel Tastes?

The Kremlin Colonel is a refreshing, minty, and slightly sweet cocktail with a smooth vodka base. The taste is well-balanced, with the coolness of the mint and the sweetness of the sugar complementing the strong, clean flavor of the vodka.

Interesting facts about Kremlin Colonel

  • The Kremlin Colonel is named after the famous Moscow Kremlin, a historic fortified complex in the heart of Moscow, Russia.
  • This cocktail is often served during summer months, as its refreshing taste is perfect for warm weather.
  • The Kremlin Colonel is sometimes referred to as a 'Russian Mint Julep' due to its similarities with the classic Mint Julep.

Ingredients

A few good options for Kremlin Colonel are:

  • Grey Goose
  • Belvedere
  • Khor
  • Smirnoff

Learn everything on which Vodka to choose

Vodka

Adding 2 oz of vodka provides the right balance of spirit without overwhelming the drink, ensuring a smooth sip that warms the soul—not burns the throat. Without it, it's just minty soda; the party simply doesn't start.

Mary Mitkina

Fresh Mint Leaves

6-8 leaves give that garden-fresh pop without turning your cocktail into a salad. It's the zing-factor, the natural freshness that makes your mouth say 'uh-huh'. Let's not even talk about a cocktail sans mint—it would be a rebellion against freshness itself!

Alex Green

Sugar

0.5 oz of sugar is just enough to sweet-talk your taste buds without sliding into a sugary overkill. Miss it, and you might pucker up with the tartness. The sugar also helps to release the mint’s essential oils when muddled, inhale it and tell me it's not aromatherapy.

Emma Rose

Club Soda

1 oz gives a frisky fizz that tickles your tongue just right, bringing the party to a bubbly balance. No soda? Expect a flat affair, like dancing without music.

Mary Mitkina

Crushed Ice

1 cup chills the deal, bringing all ingredients to a refreshing temperature—it's basically the squad’s cool friend. No ice? You're sipping on room-temp regret.

Alex Green

Mint Sprig

The garnish isn’t just for looks—okay, it's mostly for looks, but it also gives off an inviting scent. Without it, the cocktail loses charisma, sort of like wearing a suit without a tie.

Emma Rose

Recipe. How to make Kremlin Colonel Drink

  1. In a mixing glass, gently muddle the mint leaves with the sugar.
  2. Add the vodka and stir to combine.
  3. Fill a highball glass with crushed ice.
  4. Pour the vodka mixture over the ice.
  5. Top with club soda and gently stir.
  6. Garnish with a mint sprig.

Pro Tips

  • Muddle the mint leaves gently to avoid releasing the bitter flavors.
  • Use high-quality vodka for a smoother taste.
  • Chill the glass before serving to keep the cocktail cool for longer.

Perfect Pairings

Starters & Snacks

  • Caviar on Toast: The saline pop of caviar complements the clean, crisp nature of the vodka.
  • Blinis with Sour Cream: Pairs well as the creaminess contrasts with the freshness of the mint.
  • Smoked Salmon Canapés: Their rich, smoky flavor creates harmony with the herbaceous notes of the cocktail.

Main Courses

  • Grilled Lemon-Garlic Chicken Kebab: The zesty and garlicky chicken flavors complement the fresh, zingy nature of the mint in the cocktail.
  • Seared Scallops: The sweetness of the scallops will be enhanced by the vodka and the effervescence of the club soda.

Desserts

  • Lemon Sorbet: Offers a refreshing palate cleanse that mirrors the cocktail's cooling sensation.
  • Vanilla Panna Cotta: The subtle sweetness and creamy texture contrast beautifully with the crisp, minty drink.

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What you could change in Kremlin Colonel

  • Vodka: Can be replaced with white rum or gin for a different flavor profile.
  • Sugar: Honey or agave syrup can be used as natural sweeteners.
  • Club Soda: Can be substituted with tonic water or sparkling water.

Explore all drinks starting with K here

And of course - twists🍹

Citrus Kremlin Colonel

  • Replace sugar with honey syrup
  • Add 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice The lemon adds a tangy twist to the traditional Colonel, making it a rebel with a citrus cause. The honey syrup rounds out the sharpness, proving that life really can be sweet and sour at the same time.

Berry Kremlin Colonel

  • Muddle fresh raspberries with the mint
  • Use raspberry-flavored vodka Berry meets Colonel, and it's love at first sip. Raspberries bring a tart yet sweet profile, while the flavored vodka whispers of summer flings. It's not your grandma's drink unless she's the one spiking the punch.

Spiced Kremlin Colonel

  • Add a dash of cinnamon
  • Use ginger beer instead of club soda Spice up your life, or at least your drink. The cinnamon gives it a warm hug, while the ginger beer kicks it with zest. It's like your cocktail got a degree in adventure studies with a minor in excitement.

In case you forgot basics how to make Kremlin Colonel

Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.

Learn everything on how to stir

The key to proper muddling is to crush the ingredients just enough to release their flavors and not overdo it. Over-muddling can result in a bitter taste, especially with herbs.

Learn everything on how to muddle

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Kremlin Colonel

What is the ideal vodka to use with this cocktail?

A premium vodka is recommended for this recipe. A brand such as Belvedere or Grey Goose would be suitable.

What is the origin of 'Colonel' in the cocktail's name?

The 'Colonel' in the name doesn't indicate any historical or specific reference. It's commonly used in cocktail naming conventions.

Are there any specific occasions where the Kremlin Colonel is typically served?

While it is often enjoyed during summer months due to its refreshing taste, the Kremlin Colonel is a versatile cocktail that can be served at any occasion or gathering.

How should I choose mint leaves for this cocktail?

Choose fresh mint leaves that are brightly colored with no dark spots. They should have a strong minty aroma.

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