Summer and vodka cocktails go hand in hand like sunshine and a refreshing breeze. As the temperatures rise, there's nothing quite like sipping on a delicious and thirst-quenching drink to beat the heat. In this guide, we're sharing some of our favorite summer vodka cocktails that you can easily recreate at home. So grab your sunglasses and a chilled glass, as we dive into the world of refreshing vodka drinks perfect for any sunny afternoon or warm evening. And don't forget to share your creations on social media, join our Vodka Doctors Newsletter, and explore more guides on Vodka Doctors!
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
1. Classic Vodka Gimlet
A traditional vodka gimlet is an ideal choice for those who appreciate simplicity and elegance in their cocktails. Combine 2 ounces of vodka, 1 ounce of fresh lime juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake until chilled, then strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass. Garnish with a lime wheel for an extra touch of sophistication. This crisp, tart, and slightly sweet cocktail captures the essence of summer in just a few sips.
2. Vodka Watermelon Cooler
Nothing screams summertime quite like watermelon, and this vodka watermelon cooler is the perfect drink to enjoy on a hot day. To make this refreshing cocktail, you'll need 3 cups of cubed seedless watermelon, 1 cup of vodka, 1/4 cup of lime juice, and 1 tablespoon of agave or simple syrup. Blend the watermelon cubes until smooth, then strain the juice into a pitcher. Add the vodka, lime juice, and agave, and stir to combine. Serve over ice and garnish with a watermelon wedge or lime wheel.
3. Raspberry Vodka Lemonade
For a fruity twist on a classic lemonade, try this raspberry vodka lemonade recipe. In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 ounces of vodka, 1 1/2 ounces of lemon juice, 1/2 ounce of simple syrup, and 6-8 fresh raspberries. Muddle the raspberries with the liquid ingredients until well-combined. Add ice, shake, then strain into a tall glass filled with ice. Top off with a splash of club soda for a bit of fizz, and garnish with a lemon wheel and a few extra raspberries.
4. Spiked Blueberry-Lavender Lemonade
Add a touch of elegance to your summer with this spiked blueberry-lavender lemonade recipe. First, prepare a lavender simple syrup by combining 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of water, and 1 tablespoon of dried culinary lavender in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool completely before straining out the lavender. For the cocktail, combine 2 ounces of vodka, 1 ounce of lemon juice, 1 ounce of lavender simple syrup, and 1/4 cup of fresh blueberries in a shaker. Muddle, shake with ice, and strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with a splash of club soda and garnish with a lemon wheel and sprig of fresh lavender.
5. Cucumber-Mint Vodka Spritzer
This cucumber-mint vodka spritzer is as refreshing as it gets, making it the perfect summer cocktail to enjoy outdoors. To make this drink, gently muddle 3-4 cucumber slices and 6 fresh mint leaves in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Add 2 ounces of vodka, 1/2 ounce of fresh lime juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice, shake well, then strain into a tall glass filled with ice. Top off with club soda, garnish with a cucumber ribbon and a mint sprig, and enjoy your garden-fresh creation!
Now that you've got a roundup of our favorite summer vodka cocktails, it's time to turn up the heat and show off your mixology skills! Share your creations by tagging us on social media, and don't forget to join the Vodka Doctors Newsletter for more vodka guidance and exclusive content. And remember, there's always room for exploration and creativity when it comes to crafting the perfect summer cocktail, so be sure to check out our other vodka guides for endless inspiration. Cheers to a summer filled with refreshing vodka cocktails and unforgettable memories!
