| Yorsh | |
| Type: | cocktail |
| Vodka: | yes |
| Beer: | yes |
| Ingredients: |
|
| Prep: | Mix thoroughly and drink quickly. |
Yorsh (ru|link=no|Ёрш, ruffe, a little spiky fish), also known as mora grogg, is a Russian mixed drink consisting of beer thoroughly mixed with an ample quantity of vodka.[1] [2] It is traditionally drunk in a social setting, typically with a toast followed by downing a full glass of it at one go. It is commonly consumed in Russia. The term is colloquially used similarly to the "jungle juice" in English[3] to designate an alcoholic mix of incompatible ingredients.[4]
Vodka is a neutral spirit which does not greatly alter the flavor of the beer, but does greatly increase its alcohol content.
Probably the first evidence of presence of such a mix in Russian drinking culture is the Tale of Woe and Misfortune, an anonymous 17th-century poem. The early version of yorsh described there included a precursor to vodka,, however.
The total amount of alcohol in the traditional version is not very high (but the kick from the mix is unordinary): a pseudonymous author of the book on the home-made libations suggests mixing 50 grams of vodka with 200 grams of beer. For a heavier "Chpock" (ru|Чпок, an imitation of the popping sound), a more potent mix of just 50 grams of beer to 100 grams of vodka is suggested. The name of the latter drink is related to the way of mixing: after pouring both liquids into a glass, it is supposed to be covered with a palm of the hand, turned over and hit against the knee, producing the desired sound. For a full effect consumption is supposed to be completed quickly, while the bubbles and the foam are still present.