What is CoVo™ – aka Coffee Vodka
CoVo™ has been discussed numerous times on the podcast, but even the avid BBC listener may not totally understand what this world-changing beverage is all about. For all of those listeners dying for more information, we’ve laid it out below.
Origin Story
It was a lazy hungover Saturday afternoon, a day like any other really for a debt riddled, job-hating, 20-somethinger. That night was a charity event. What the event lacked in entertainment, drinking games, and general good times, it made up for in small talk, $10 glasses of chardonnay and general uncomfortableness. A typical 6 Busch Lights pre-game would not suffice that night. Nay, something extra was needed to avoid the general malaise that would soon be upon us. Something that lifted the spirits (pun intended), that rallied the troops. Something that would inspire hope more than a combination of Lil Jon + William Wallace. But what could possibly provide that? That night CoVo™ was born.
Why Coffee Vodka?
One may suggest some form of illicit drugs to help provide that extra boost, but the only thing I smoke is clowns like you on the bball court. The only time I’m snorting is when I’m hearing a particularly good quip from D-man on the BBC podcast. As someone that doesn’t drink a lot of coffee (tea all day errryday), coffee has superpower drug-like-effects. It provides that much needed lift similar to a vodka + redbull, but tastier and cheaper than alternative options. Coffee being the base is great for caffeine and it’s bitter taste can easily hide vodka (like cranberry vodka). Now, I completely understand why a regular coffee drinker would have a hard time believing it would taste good. But it’s very similar to green eggs in ham, everyone initially doesn’t like the idea but once you try it you quickly change your opinion, and would be more than willing to drink it on a boat and with a goat, and in the rain and on a train.
Since it’s inception CoVo™ has become more than just a drink. It’s a lifestyle choice. It’s a rally cry, it’s the pick-me-up you didn’t know you needed. In short it’s an instant good vibe bringer.
Tag Line: “We doing CoVo’s tonight?”
Recipe Variations
The Original CoVo™
This version is not for the faint of heart. This is fastball down the middle, take it or leave it. This is the utilitarian version of the CoVo™. May not taste the best but the hot coffee and caffeine give you an immediate boost.
Use Case: Prefect for a quick pick me up on a cold night or when you have limited mixers/options.
Ingredients: Hot Coffee + Vodka. Add cream or milk as desired.
Added Suggestion – Vanilla flavored vodka gives this a nice little twist 🙂
The ‘On the Go CoVo™’
Want a delicious cold version of CoVo™ that you can’t mess up? Very simple, pick up your favorite pre-packaged coffee from a local convenience store. These are already have the requisite cream, sugar and taste. Pour this and some vodka over ice and you will not taste the vodka. Tastes like a milk shake and gives you that much needed boost.
Use Case: Looking for something more tasty and cold? This is the easy go to.
Ingredients: Prepackaged Coffee Drink + Ice + Vodka
Added Suggestion – I’ve found that Starbucks are the best tasting for these – but if you’re most interested in caffeine consumption stick with cold brew versions:
‘Impress Your Friends’ CoVo™
Realistically the more sugary/creamy you make your CoVo™ the better it will taste, so cream/baileys, whip cream, sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flavored vodkas, blended coffee ice cream are your friends (and will impress your friends). Realistically you can take any ‘Irish Coffee’/Espresso Martini recipe and substitute where you see fit and you’ll be set.
Use Case: First time introducing someone to CoVo™ – this is your best bet, The Original (see above) is not for everyone.
Ingredients: Here are some good variations of what you can make.
Added Suggestion – On a budget? Find an empty bottle of Grey Goose or higher end vodka pour a shitty $12 handle into the bottle. Tell everyone you’re pulling out the ‘good’ vodka for the occasion. None will be the wiser. I did this in college but did always preface it with: “alright I’m pulling out the expensive vodka, this is definitely not shitty vodka I put into this bottle if that is what you’re thinking”.
