Labor Day is in a couple of weeks. It's the official end of summer, and the unofficial biggest party weekend of the summer. One last shot at beer-soaked, bikini-clad backyard barbecues, before tailgating in parkas takes over. If you're taking part in one last summer bash, bring something to the party that gets it rocking.

Here are some recipes from Van Gogh that are liberally soaked in their flavored vodkas. There's the requisite party punch, a killer vodka-spiked salsa, and even a couple of "adult" desserts that are sure to loosen everyone up and keep things flowing long after the coals die down.

For more recipes you can head to Van Gogh's 2008 Cocktail Calendar at www.VanGoghVodka.com or call toll-free 888-539-3361. Gotta love a vodka hotline.

Labor Free Punch (pictured)
3 cups Van Gogh Pineapple Vodka
1/2 gallon fruit punch
1 can frozen orange juice concentrate
1 quart ginger ale
3-4 scoops orange sherbet (optional)

Mix vodka, punch and orange juice in pitcher or punch bowl until orange juice is dissolved. Add ginger ale and sherbet just prior to serving.


Spiked Mango Salsa
1/4 cup Van Gogh Mango Vodka
2 fresh, diced mangos
1/2 cup fresh, diced pineapple
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
1 seeded and minced jalapeño pepper
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
salt and pepper

Combine ingredients in bowl and refrigerate for 2-3 hours. Serve over freshly grilled seafood or as a snack with tortilla chips.


Coconut Soaked Ambrosia
1/2 cup Van Gogh Coconut Vodka
1 1/2 cups grapefruit
1 1/2 cups pineapple or 1 (13 ounce) can of pineapple chunks, drained
1 (11 ounce) can of mandarin oranges, drained
1/2 cup shredded coconut
3/4 cup mini marshmallows
Peel and cut fruit into small pieces. Place fruit into a serving dish and add coconut, marshmallows and vodka. Stir well and chill overnight.


Espresso Vodka Ice Cream Sundaes
2 ounces Van Gogh Double Espresso® Vodka
2 scoops vanilla ice cream (or your favorite flavor)
Toppings

Pour vodka over ice cream and garnish with your favorite toppings.