Vodka is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed straight, on the rocks, or mixed in a myriad of cocktails. But what is the best way to drink it to maximize its taste and appreciate its subtle flavors? In this article, we'll explore some of the most popular and delicious ways to enjoy vodka, looking at traditional options and modern twists alike. So, grab your favorite bottle and join us in discovering what's good to drink with vodka.
Best Budget Vodkas Ranked
Smirnoff
A global vodka giant with Russian origins, Smirnoff delivers consistent quality and versatility for any mixer.
Alcohol Percentage: 40%
Taste Profile: Crisp, mild sweetness with a clean finish
Best Cocktail Pairing: Classic Cosmopolitan
Best Food Paring: Grilled chicken skewers
Brand Breakdown: Find out more here
Absolut
Swedish purity in a bottle, Absolut is distilled from winter wheat, giving a smooth and rich experience.
Alcohol Percentage: 40%
Taste Profile: Smooth with light grain and citrus hints
Best Cocktail Pairing: Absolut Elyx Martini
Best Food Paring: Smoked salmon canapés
Brand Breakdown: Find out more here
Ketel One
A Dutch treat, Ketel One is the result of over 300 years of distilling expertise; a refined choice.
Alcohol Percentage: 40%
Taste Profile: Fresh with subtle citrus and honey notes
Best Cocktail Pairing: Dutch Mule
Best Food Paring: Aged cheeses or Dutch herring
Brand Breakdown: Find out more here
What Is Good To Drink With Vodka Table of Contents
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Fruity Companions
Fruit juices and vodka make a classic combination. The sweetness of the fruit helps to balance out the harshness of the alcohol. Experiment with different fruit juices to find your perfect match.
- Orange Juice: Known as a "Screwdriver," orange juice and vodka is a popular and refreshing beverage, perfect for a morning pick-me-up or a relaxing evening drink. Simply mix one part vodka to two parts orange juice and serve over ice for a classic treat.
- Cranberry Juice: The tartness of cranberry juice pairs wonderfully with vodka, creating a balanced and flavorful "Vodka Cran" or "Cape Codder." Combine equal parts vodka and cranberry juice and serve over ice with a lime wedge garnish.
- Pineapple Juice: Add an exotic twist to your vodka with pineapple juice. Mix equal parts vodka and pineapple juice over ice, and enjoy the tropical flavors of this "Vodka and Pineapple" concoction.
Citrus Blends
Another way to enjoy vodka is by mixing it with a variety of citrus flavors. These zesty and tangy cocktails provide a refreshing taste that pairs well with the characteristics of vodka.
- Lemon: A "Lemon Drop" is a tangy, sweet-and-sour vodka cocktail that highlights the bright flavors of lemon. Combine 1 1/2 ounces of vodka with 3/4 ounces of lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup. Shake with ice and strain into a sugar-rimmed cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.
- Lime: The gimlet is a classic cocktail that combines vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup. Shake 2 ounces of vodka with 1/2 ounce of fresh lime juice and 1/2 ounce simple syrup. Strain over ice and garnish with a lime wedge or twist.
- Grapefruit: For a refreshing and invigorating drink, try the "Salty Dog," which pairs grapefruit juice with vodka and a salted rim. Combine 1 1/2 ounces of vodka with 4 ounces of grapefruit juice in a salt-rimmed glass filled with ice. Stir to mix and garnish with a grapefruit twist.
Creamy Mixers
For those who prefer a more decadent and indulgent beverage, mixing vodka with creamy ingredients can create a delicious and satisfying drink.
- White Russian: This rich cocktail combines vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream for a luxurious treat. Mix 2 ounces of vodka with 1 ounce of coffee liqueur in a rocks glass filled with ice, then gently float 1 ounce of heavy cream on top. Stir to mix and enjoy.
- Chocolate Martini: Chocolate lovers can rejoice in this velvety cocktail that combines vodka, chocolate liqueur, and creme de cacao. Shake 2 ounces of vodka, 1 ounce of chocolate liqueur, and 1 ounce of white creme de cacao with ice, then strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with chocolate shavings or a chocolate-dipped cherry.
Savory Options
If you're in the mood for a more savory cocktail, vodka can also be skillfully combined with various savory mixers, creating unique and tasty concoctions.
- Bloody Mary: This iconic vodka drink is a savory delight that combines vodka with tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, lemon juice, and various seasonings. Mix 1 1/2 ounces of vodka with 3 ounces of tomato juice, 1/2 ounce of lemon juice, 1 dash of hot sauce, 2 dashes of Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of black pepper, smoked paprika, and celery salt. Pour over ice and garnish with a celery stalk and olives for a spicy and satisfying drink.
- Moscow Mule: This classic cocktail combines vodka with ginger beer and lime juice for a refreshing, tangy beverage. Fill a copper mug with ice, add 2 ounces of vodka and 1/2 ounce of lime juice, and top with ginger beer. Stir to mix and garnish with a lime wheel and mint sprig.
What Is Good To Drink With Vodka Example:
For a simple yet delicious vodka cocktail to try at home, consider making a "Fruit-Infused Vodka Lemonade." First, you'll need to create a fruit-infused vodka by combining your choice of fruits, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, with a bottle of vodka. Let it steep for a few days to absorb the fruity flavors. Then, mix 2 ounces of your fruit-infused vodka with 4 ounces of freshly squeezed lemonade. Serve over ice, garnish with a lemon wheel and additional fruit, and enjoy.
Now that you're well-equipped with a variety of vodka-based beverages to try, it's time to start exploring and experimenting to find your favorite combinations. Be sure to check out other guides and articles on Vodka Doctors for more information, inspiration, and expertise. Don't forget to share this article with your friends who also love vodka – they might just discover a new favorite too!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some classic mixers to pair with vodka?
Classic mixers for vodka include tonic water, soda water, ginger beer, and cranberry juice. These are versatile options that complement the clean taste of vodka without overpowering it.
Can I mix vodka with juice?
Yes, vodka pairs well with a variety of juices. Orange juice (to make a Screwdriver), cranberry juice (for a Cape Codder), and tomato juice (for a Bloody Mary) are popular choices, but you can also experiment with apple, pineapple, or any other fruit juice.
Is it okay to drink vodka straight?
Absolutely. Many people enjoy vodka straight, especially premium brands that are smooth with minimal burn. Drinking vodka neat, at room temperature or chilled, allows you to fully appreciate its subtle flavors.
What is a good cocktail recipe for vodka beginners?
A simple and enjoyable cocktail for vodka beginners is the Vodka Tonic: mix 2 oz of vodka with 4 oz of tonic water, and garnish with a lime wedge. It's light, refreshing, and easy to make.
How do energy drinks and vodka mix?
Vodka can be mixed with energy drinks, creating a stimulating beverage. However, caution is advised as the combination can mask the level of alcohol intake, potentially leading to overconsumption.
What are some low-calorie vodka drinks?
For low-calorie vodka drinks, mix vodka with soda water and a squeeze of lemon or lime. You can also use zero-calorie flavored seltzers or diet tonic.
Are there any savory drink options with vodka?
Yes, the Bloody Mary is a popular savory option that mixes vodka with tomato juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and various spices. It's often garnished with celery or olives.
What fruits pair well with vodka in a cocktail?
Fruits like lemon, lime, berries, watermelon, and grapefruit pair exceptionally well with vodka due to their ability to balance its neutrality with freshness and acidity.
How can I make a vodka drink with a herbal twist?
Adding herbs like basil, mint, or thyme to vodka cocktails can give them an intriguing twist. For a herbal infusion, muddle fresh herbs in the glass before adding the remaining ingredients.
What are some warm vodka drinks for colder weather?
Warm vodka drinks are less common, but you can create a Hot Vodka Toddy by combining vodka with hot water, honey, and lemon, or mix vodka into a warm apple cider.
Does vodka pair well with coffee?
Yes, vodka can be added to coffee to make drinks like Espresso Martinis or White Russians, combining the rich flavors of coffee with the clear, clean taste of vodka.
How can I add a spicy kick to my vodka cocktail?
You can add a spicy kick by infusing vodka with hot peppers or by adding a splash of hot sauce to your drink. Be cautious with the amount, as a little goes a long way.
Can vodka be used in dessert drinks?
Absolutely, vodka is a great addition to dessert drinks. Try mixing it with cream liqueurs, chocolate syrups, or alongside dessert-like ingredients such as heavy cream and vanilla extract.
What types of soda can I mix with vodka?
Vodka can be mixed with virtually any type of soda, from cola and lemon-lime sodas to more niche varieties like ginger ale or root beer.
Is it safe to mix vodka with prescription medication?
No, it is not safe. Mixing vodka with prescription medication can cause adverse reactions and diminish the effectiveness of the medicine. Always consult your doctor before consuming alcohol with medication.
How do different types of water change a vodka drink?
Different types of water, such as mineral, tonic, or soda water, can add varying levels of carbonation and minerality to a vodka drink, subtly changing its flavor profile and mouthfeel.
Is there a difference between cheap and expensive vodka for mixed drinks?
Expensive vodkas are often smoother and more refined, which can enhance a cocktail. However, in highly flavored or sweetened mixed drinks, the subtleties of premium vodka may be less noticeable compared to cheaper alternatives.
What are some inventive vodka garnishes?
Apart from the classic citrus wedges or twists, consider using fresh berries, edible flowers, candy canes, or even a stick of cinnamon or a sprig of rosemary to add flair and flavor to your vodka drink.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of a vodka cocktail?
Yes, you can create mocktail versions of vodka cocktails by substituting the vodka with non-alcoholic spirits, sparkling water, or simply by increasing the non-alcoholic mixers in the recipe.
How can I create a layered vodka drink?
To create a layered drink, carefully pour liquids with different densities over the back of a spoon into the glass. Start with the heaviest liquid and end with the lightest. This technique is often used with cordials and cream liqueurs in vodka drinks.
What is the best way to store vodka?
Vodka should be stored at room temperature and out of direct sunlight. While chilling vodka can make it more viscous and less harsh to taste, it doesn't need to be refrigerated or frozen, unless that is your personal preference.
