I had my first taste of Smirnoff’s Spicy Tamarind Vodka when it first rolled out, specifically in bars/clubs. It didn’t take long for it to become hugely popular. Fast forward almost a year, and now I see it on the shelf at a Costco, $15 for a 1.75 liter bottle, a great deal I simply couldn’t pass up. As the name suggests, this specialty vodka is a bit spicy, but it’s balanced out with the mellow, authentic tasting tamarind flavor.

Tamarind belongs to the legume family (think peas and beans); despite that, it is deliciously sweet.

The vodka can easily be enjoyed by itself, preferably chilled, but it is a unique vodka to try in many cocktails or with mixers (sodas and fruit juices). This vodka is perfect for use in margaritas! I tried a shot of this with an 1800 Mango Margarita and I almost can’t have margaritas without it. The vodka isn’t the only thing that’s unique; the bottle design is pretty damn Mexican. It also glows brilliantly in black/UV light, perfect for a club/bar environment.