Dan Aykroyd takes his vodka seriously.
So seriously that his Crystal Head Vodka comes in a glass shaped like a human skull. But his reasons for crafting such a unique container are more than decorative.
"The story behind Crystal Head Vodka is one of positive spiritual energy," Aykroyd says in an e-mail interview. "Thirteen of these polished skulls have been found on our planet. Eight are in the possession of individuals and institutions. Five are missing. Of the eight each one is unique. Some are green, orange, cloudy and crystal clear."
He continues, "The origins of the skulls are controversial. However, everyone agrees that these beautiful pieces are symbols of enlightenment and hope for a better future. They are believed to be between 5,000 and 35,000 years old and appear to have been carved over a period of several hundred years – but they don't bear any tool marks. Their very construction defies common logic.
Aykroyd recently took time to discuss his inspiration for the glass skull design, the legacy of "The Blues Brothers" and the status of a third "Ghostbusters" film. He will sign bottles of his signature vodka 4 to 6 today at the Wine and Spirits Store in South Whitehall Township.
Q. What was the inspiration for Crystal Head Vodka?
A. The Crystal Head Vodka originates from an idea my friend artist John Alexander had. He's been going to the Mexican "Day of the Dead" celebration for some time. He has been putting skulls in his artwork for years. He wanted to put tequila in a glass skull. It was a brilliant idea, but I'm the importer of Patron into Canada, so that would be like Pepsi salesman drinking Coke.
Then it hit me — let's bring back the Mitchell-Hedges skull that was found in the Yucatan. Then I thought, "Why not use a liquid that is a pure spirit?" and we created Crystal Head Vodka.