Skip to main content

Spicy ‘Hot Ones’ vodka is a thing that exists now

Spicy 'Hot Ones' vodka is a thing that exists now thanks to New Amsterdam

Spirit of Gallo

Spice lovers take note: A new collaboration between the popular YouTube show Hot Ones and New Amsterdam Vodka is creating a chili-infused spirit to show off the rich, fruity, funky flavors of hot chilies. The creation, called Heat Check, includes hot peppers like Serranos for earthy, rich notes and Fresnsos for fruity flavors, plus the use of Haberneros for heat.

The obvious choice of drink for this flavored vodka would be a Bloody Mary, a favorite spicy cocktail for casual Sunday brunches — the combination of chili vodka and tomato juice is a no-brainer. But the brand also recommends trying it in a spicy dirty martini, with slices of jalapeno along with the traditional olive garnish, or mixed with lemonade made with grilled lemons for a tart, smoky creation that sounds rather tempting for a barbecue tipple.

Recommended Videos

The vodka isn’t too spicy, according to the host of Hot Ones, Sean Evans, so it shouldn’t be a challenge — unlike some of the punishingly spicy hot sauces seen on the show. “Hot Ones is bringing the heat to fans yet again with the launch of Heat Check, a not-too-spicy, not-too-mild, but just right pepper-infused spirit in partnership with New Amsterdam Vodka,” said Evans. “I’m thrilled to invite spice lovers to see if they can handle the heat, from celebrating with a spicy shot, to poolside sipping on the official cocktail of summer, the Heat Check Spicy Scorched Lemonade.”

Heat Check will be available nationwide, with each 750 ml bottle selling for $11, as part of a limited edition release.

Georgina Torbet
Georgina Torbet is a cocktail enthusiast based in Berlin, with an ever-growing gin collection and a love for trying out new…
Rod & Hammer’s California Whiskey is releasing a bourbon and having a concert to benefit wildfire relief
Rod & Hammer's has two initiatives to help with the California wildfire relief
Rod & Hammer’s

Regardless of where you live, chances are you’ve seen the devastation of the recent wildfires in Southern California. Rod & Hammer’s California Whiskey recently announced two initiatives to support the wildfire relief efforts.

The first initiative is called “Songs of Solace.” It will be a concert to benefit Los Angeles Wildfire Relief. They’re also announcing the launch of a special-edition whiskey called Wildfire Resilience Straight Bourbon. Both will raise money to help support communities impacted by the wildfires and firefighters working tirelessly to put them out.
Songs of Solace: A Benefit Concert for LA Wildfire Relief

Read more
How to drink whiskey: A beginner’s guide (with tips from a pro)
It's time to finally learn how to drink whiskey
Whiskey being poured into a glass

I've written about alcohol for almost 20 years, and in that time, I've learned a few things. One of the biggest things I've learned is that there's something special about whisk(e)y. Whether you enjoy a nuanced single malt Scotch whisky, a complex bourbon whiskey, a spicy rye whiskey, or any random whisk(e)y (only the U.S., Ireland, and Mexico use the 'e' in whiskey) from a far-flung locale, this barrel-aged spirit is for everyone.

There are countless styles and expressions to choose from, and there are a number of ways to imbibe them. This includes cracking a bottle open, pouring it into a glass, and drinking it neat. You can also sip it on the rocks with a splash of water to open up the aromas and flavor, or enjoy it mixed into your favorite whiskey-based cocktail. We aren't here to tell you how to drink whiskey. But we would love to help guide you on your boozy journey.

Read more
7 classic tequila cocktail recipes that prove it’s more than just a party shot
Mixing a drink with tequila as the star? Here are the recipes you ought to make
Classic margarita cocktail with salty rim on wooden table with limes and drink utensils

To me, tequila always -- first and foremost -- calls to mind slammers. When I think about this spirit. I can almost taste the tequila, salt, lime, and regret. However, tequila needn't be only a party shot. In fact, it's a wonderful tool for any home bartender, as it can be mixed into a range of fruity, sour, or even savory drinks. My personal favorite is the Michelada, a savory tomato and beer-based cocktail that was a revelation the first time I tried it. It's like a funky, sharp, spicy version of a Bloody Mary, and it's an absolute pleasure to enjoy with tacos or other Mexican food.

But that's just the tip of the tequila cocktail iceberg. There are tons of beloved tequila drinks, from a classic margarita to a refreshing Paloma. Tequila goes well with sharp citrus fruits like lemon and lime and can be lengthened with fruit juices or sodas to be more sippable and less heavily boozy than in its shot form. It can also go well with more bitter flavors, if you're looking for something darker and moodier, such as a Negroni variation.

Read more