It’s a misnomer. Czerwowny means red, and it’s actually more of an orangey brown colour, but that doesn’t have the same ring to it. Regardless, the name runs deeper than just the colour of the liquid.

It’s a drink inspired by multiple sources, by two separate people and the desperation that comes with a lack of ingredients. None of that really matters though, neither does the fact that it doesn’t look overly attractive. What does matter is the taste, which is both complex and beautiful.

It’s a cocktail of few ingredients, the only problem is that one of them might be a bit tricky to find (and pronounce).

Żołądkowa what?

There aren’t many ingredients, but one of them is a bit unusual. Wódka Żołądkowa Gorzka, is a Polish vodka infused with a mix of bitter herbs and honey.

The name literally means ‘a bitter vodka for the stomach’, so called because it was traditionally used as a digestive after meals of heavy Polish cuisine.

You can buy it in the UK and most of Europe, but I don’t know how easy it is to get hold of further afield.

Just a couple of notes

If you don’t have citrus vodka handy, then just omit it. It does add something to the drink, but it will still be lovely without it.

Be careful with the volumes, this is very tasty and very easy to drink, but it’s also pretty strong. Every ingredient in the glass is strong alcohol, and it creeps up on you.

Let’s shake

1. Put a few big chunks of ice into a cocktail glass, and leave them there to chill the glass while you make the drink.

2. Throw a handful of frozen pineapple chunks into a cocktail shaker, as you would normally use ice.

3. Pour equal parts of Żołądkowa Gorzka and Martini Rosso into the shaker, and add a splash of citrus vodka.

4. Shake well, until frost starts to form on the outside of the shaker.

5. Empty the ice out of the cocktail glass, and put a chunk of frozen pineapple into the bottom.

6. Strain the drink into the glass and serve.