Chillin’ With DWTS Maksim Chmerkovskiy

World-renowned Dancing with the Stars pro and Traitors star Maks Chmerkovskiy is expanding his Napa Valley, California-based premium vodka brand, Tetya KAPA, to the east coast.

Photos by Benjo Arwas

The handmede, boutique-style spirit is crisp, clean with subtle hints of grain and a faint sweetness. Here’s what he had to tell Chilled.

Tell us about the projects you are working on.

Right now, I’m incredibly proud of what we’re building with Tetya KAPA Vodka. It’s a deeply personal project—named after my aunt, a symbol of strength and tradition in my family. We launched KAPA, which is the only vodka distilled and bottled in the Napa Valley region, not just to make another vodka, but to honor where I come from and how we connect over a great drink. I’m also still heavily involved in dance—through our Dance with Me studios and you can still find me on your TV screens, but KAPA has become a creative passion that connects my Ukrainian roots with where I am today.

With your busy schedule, what do you like to do with your downtime?

Family time is everything. I love just being at home with Peta and the kids—playing outside, cooking dinner, even those chaotic bedtime routines. When I can, I’ll unwind with a good drink, some music, and conversations that don’t involve schedules or rehearsals. That balance is essential for me.

When you go out to eat, where do you like to dine?

I gravitate toward places that feel real—good energy, a thoughtful menu, and ideally, something with a little European flair. I love a cozy neighborhood spot where they know your name, but I also appreciate a fine dining experience when the occasion calls for it.

What types of dishes do you typically order?

I’m a sucker for comfort food with soul. Anything that’s well-seasoned, hearty, and rooted in tradition. I love Eastern European flavors—braised meats, fresh herbs, bold spices—but I’ll also never say no to a well-done pasta or grilled seafood.

Any favorite bars?

There are a few speakeasies in L.A. and New York that I love for their vibe and creativity. But honestly, some of my favorite “bars” have been at home—good friends, great music, and KAPA cocktails flowing. That’s my kind of bar experience.

What drinks do you order when out? Favorite drink?

I like to keep it simple and clean. A KAPA martini with a twist, or just vodka on the rocks with a slice of cucumber. It’s smooth enough to enjoy straight, since it’s made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes, which was exactly the point. I want a drink that enhances a moment, not masks it.

Do you prepare drinks at home?

Absolutely. I enjoy the ritual of it. Whether it’s making a drink for myself after a long day or mixing something fun for guests, I love the creativity behind it. I’ve even been experimenting with infusions using KAPA—fresh herbs, citrus, spices—it’s become a little bit of a hobby.

Tell us about your home bar. What is it stocked with?

It starts with Tetya KAPA Vodka but I also stock the usuals with some tequila and wine. But I also stock great mixers, fresh garnishes, and a few choice liqueurs so I can make anything from a classic martini to a seasonal cocktail. I keep it elevated but accessible. No pretense—just good drinks, well made.

Have you ever been a bartender?

Not professionally—but I’ve bartended plenty of parties! It’s actually one of my favorite things to do when we host. I love playing that role—serving friends, telling stories, mixing drinks. It’s social, it’s expressive, and it brings people together. What’s not to love?

If you could share a drink with anyone, who would it be?

I’d share a glass of KAPA with my grandfather. He passed before he could see all this. He was a pillar in our family, and I think he’d appreciate not just the vodka, but the meaning behind it. I’d want to toast to legacy, to family, and to the journey we’ve all been on.

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