The spirits of Ukraine

Nazdorovya!

Pronounced “Naz-doh-ROW-via”, means ‘cheers’ in Ukrainian.

Whether it’s the extremely smooth, four-times distilled Slava vodka, the exceptionally tasty lagers Slavutich and Lvivske, or Krimsekt sparkling wines, there’s no knocking these premium products from Europe’s “breadbasket” and the exotic chalk caves of the Crimean Peninsula.

But these products were not always easy to find in Canada; it took a dedicated mind and soul to import this selection of quality booze. That person was Oakville-based Multiculture Bevco President John Vellinga, who recently shared his opinions via the information superhighway about why it was time to bring these products to the lips and hearts of appreciative consumers of good alcohol.

“Three things: 1) Toronto has a very large and active Ukrainian-Canadian community and we knew that they would be very keen to get their hands on superb Ukrainian products of which they could be proud; 2) Toronto is the epicentre of immigration of Ukrainians in the last 10 years. Not only will these people be as eager to get these products as second and third generation Canadians, but they would recognize the brands from back home; 3) We saw the extraordinary volumes of Polish beer and vodka being sold. Most of it is consumed by Polish Canadians… it was inspiring to see that a community will rally around these kinds of products.”

Good enough for we fans of the drink. But what of the taste, the complexities of the liquids, the overall enjoyment of drinking said spirits? The verdict came in as quickly as the shots were tossed back, the lagers poured, and the bubbly popped: This is some high-quality stuff!

First to pour was the Slava vodka, which means “Glory”. This ultra premium vodka is as good as some of the more expensive varieties, and leaps and bounds better than the cheaper, hip vodkas of magazine fame. One shot and you appreciate the smoothness, with only a slight tingle at the back of your throat reminding you are indeed consuming alcohol at 40% alc./vol. It’s slick art deco label, “freezer-friendly” triangular shaped bottle (it will not roll around in your freezer) and exceptional value ($26.95 at the LCBO) will draw in the crowds.

“Many people believe that Ukraine is the originator of vodka. Russians will dispute this, as they claim to have originated the drink (as do Poles, Swedes and Finns). Regardless of who is right, even most Russians admit that vodka was invented in what is now Ukraine (then part of the Russian Empire),” said Vellinga. “One telling thing about Ukrainian vodka is, that until recently, the bottles were not equipped with a re-closeable cap. This is because when a Ukrainian opens a bottle of vodka, they intend to finish it.”

Our kind of people!

After several shots of Slava as a warmer-up, came several glasses of Slavutich (pronounced Sla-voo’-tich) and Lvivske (pronounced Le-veev’-ske); two lagers, brewed according to the Bavarian Purity Act in the Pilsner-style. These beers are as good, if not better, than many Pilsner-style lagers out there… maybe even a few Germany brands.

Both share a golden colour with Slavutich looking more straw-like while Lvivske retaining the pure golden approach. Slavutich has a wonderful balance of hops and malt, with a flavour that lets you know who’s boss; Lvivske, established in 1715, is one of the oldest, most storied breweries in Europe and Lviv one of Europe’s most beautiful cities – it’s drier, more crisp and has a clean finish.

“Many mainstream Canadian beers have over 100 ingredients, many of which sound very unappetizing…” said Vellinga. “Drinkers of mainstream beers will enjoy both these brands, but will notice fuller flavour and a cleaner, more natural taste.”

After a night in the bottle with friends and family, it was time to wait a few days to appreciate the quality found in the sparkling wines. Not a fan of the bubbly, this seemed like a chore before the tasting, then all became clear.

Made from grapes grown in Southern Ukraine and the ideal soil and climate of the exotic and historic Crimean Peninsula, Krimsekt uses the same traditional methods as the great French champagne houses. If you’re in the mood, pour yourself a Mimosa using either the White Brut or the White Semi-Dry, both are ideal for that early morning soother that comes from mixing about a 1/4 orange juice with 3/4 sparkling wine!

Ukraine will surely become the adventurous bibber’s next destination of choice when entering their local liquor or beer stores. If this article has peeked your interest, check out this weekend’s Bloor Street Village Ukrainian Festival in Toronto, August 26 – 28, and step into the Lvivske Tent Bar.

All five tasty products are available at LCBO stores throughout Ontario, at MLCC and SLGA stores in Manitoba and Saskatchewan; and at finer liquor stores in Alberta. For more details on these and other Ukrainian products, visit www.ukiestore.com; for a direct link to Slava Vodka, visit www.slavavodka.com

Courtesy images