Summer is here, and there's no better way to celebrate than with a refreshing and delicious vodka-based drink. There are countless recipes and concoctions to try, but how do you know which ones are the best for the season? That's where Vodka Doctors comes in! In this article, we'll share some of our favorite summer vodka drinks, perfect for a poolside party, a backyard BBQ, or any warm-weather gathering.
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
Summer Vodka Drinks Table of Contents
Looking For The Best Vodka? You'll Love These Vodka Guides...
The Classic Moscow Mule
A timeless summer favorite, the Moscow Mule is a simple yet refreshing cocktail that combines vodka, ginger beer, and lime. Plus, it's served in a stylish copper mug, which keeps your drink cool and adds a touch of sophistication.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 4-6 oz ginger beer
- Half a lime (juiced)
- Ice
- Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or glass with ice.
2. Pour in the vodka and lime juice.
3. Top with ginger beer and stir to combine.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve.
Watermelon Vodka Smash
This fruity cocktail is the epitome of summer, with its fresh watermelon and mint flavors. Not only is it visually appealing, but it's also incredibly easy to make and can easily be scaled up to serve a crowd.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 cup cubed watermelon
- 10 mint leaves, plus more for garnish
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 1 oz lime juice
- Ice
- Club soda
Instructions:
1. In a shaker, muddle the watermelon and mint leaves until well combined.
2. Add the vodka, simple syrup, lime juice, and ice, then shake vigorously.
3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda and garnish with mint leaves.
Vodka Lemonade
A refreshing drink that's perfect for hot days, vodka lemonade is the ultimate summer thirst-quencher. It's simple to make and can easily be customized with your favorite fruits or herbs.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 4 oz fresh lemonade
- Ice
- Optional: fruit or herb garnishes, such as berries, lemon slices, or basil
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour in the vodka and lemonade.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Garnish with your preferred fruits or herbs and serve.
Frozen Vodka Strawberry Daiquiri
Nothing screams summer more than a fruity frozen cocktail, and the vodka strawberry daiquiri is a delightful alternative to the rum-based original. With its vibrant color and sweet-tart taste, you'll want to enjoy this treat all season long.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 cup frozen strawberries
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 1 cup ice
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the vodka, frozen strawberries, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the ice and blend until smooth and slushy.
3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
Summer Vodka Drinks Example:
If you're hosting a summer party, why not create a self-serve vodka cocktail station? Set out a variety of vodka bottles, mixers, and garnishes, along with recipe cards featuring the cocktails we've mentioned above. This way, guests can mix their own drinks and even try their hand at creating their personalized concoctions. You can also pre-batch some of the cocktails in pitchers (such as the vodka lemonade) for easy serving.
So there you have it, four delicious and refreshing summer vodka drinks to keep you cool this season. Whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these cocktails are guaranteed to hit the spot. Don't forget to share this article with friends and fellow vodka enthusiasts, and explore our other guides on Vodka Doctors for even more cocktail inspiration!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes vodka a good choice for summer drinks?
Vodka is a versatile spirit that mixes well with a variety of ingredients, making it an excellent base for refreshing summer drinks. Its neutral flavor allows the fresh, fruity, and herbal profiles of seasonal summer ingredients to shine through. Additionally, vodka can be served chilled, which is perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
Can vodka cocktails be part of a healthy diet?
In moderation, vodka cocktails can be included in a healthy diet. Opt for cocktails with fresh fruits, herbs, and low-calorie mixers. Keep an eye on portion sizes and be mindful of the mixers you choose to avoid excess sugar and calories.
Are there any gluten-free vodka options for summer drinks?
Yes, many vodka brands produce gluten-free options made from corn, potatoes, or grapes, which are safe for individuals with gluten sensitivities. Always check the label or contact the manufacturer to ensure that the vodka is certified gluten-free.
What are some classic vodka summer drinks?
Classic vodka summer drinks include the Moscow Mule, made with ginger beer and lime; the Vodka Tonic; the Cosmopolitan; the Sea Breeze, with cranberry and grapefruit juice; and the Vodka Martini. These drinks are beloved for their refreshing qualities and ease of preparation.
How can I make a summer vodka drink healthier?
To make a summer vodka drink healthier, use fresh fruit instead of sugary syrups or mixers, opt for soda water or tonic as a mixer, and control the serving size. Also, consider creating infused vodkas with fruits or herbs to add flavor without extra calories.
What are some unique vodka infusions I can try for summer?
For a unique twist, try infusing your vodka with combinations like strawberry basil, cucumber mint, lemon lavender, watermelon rosemary, or peach thyme. Infusing vodka with fresh produce is a great way to incorporate seasonal flavors into your drinks.
How can I make low-alcohol vodka drinks for longer summer gatherings?
To create low-alcohol vodka drinks, simply reduce the amount of vodka and increase the amount of non-alcoholic mixers like fruit juice, soda, or iced tea. This will help you and your guests stay refreshed and hydrated throughout longer gatherings.
Can I use frozen fruits in my summer vodka cocktails?
Yes, frozen fruits are perfect for summer vodka cocktails. They can also serve a dual purpose as both a flavor enhancer and a chilling agent without watering down your drink as ice would.
What are some quick and simple vodka cocktails for a spontaneous summer get-together?
For quick and simple vodka cocktails, consider a Screwdriver (vodka and orange juice), Greyhound (vodka and grapefruit juice), or a vodka soda with a splash of lemon or lime juice. These require minimal ingredients and are easy to mix on short notice.
How do I balance the flavors in a vodka cocktail?
To balance the flavors in a vodka cocktail, ensure a proper ratio of sweeter components (like fruit juices or simple syrup) to sour or bitter components (like citrus or tonic). Adjust the ratios to your taste and add a pinch of salt to enhance the overall flavor profile if needed.
Is it possible to make a big batch of vodka cocktails for a party?
Certainly! Many vodka cocktails scale up nicely for parties. Drinks like vodka punch or a large-scale Moscow Mule can be made in pitchers or dispensers. Make sure all ingredients are evenly mixed, and consider adding a large ice block to keep the drink cool without diluting it too quickly.
What's the best way to garnish a summer vodka drink?
The best way to garnish a summer vodka drink is with fresh herbs, citrus wheels, or a skewer of fresh fruit. These garnishes add visual appeal and can enhance the overall flavor of the drink.
Can summer vodka drinks be frozen into popsicles?
Yes, vodka drinks can be frozen into popsicles for a fun and grown-up treat. Keep in mind that alcohol lowers the freezing point, so you need to use the right proportion of alcohol to non-alcoholic ingredients to ensure proper freezing.
How should vodka be stored?
Vodka should be stored in a cool, dark place. Although it doesn’t need to be refrigerated, many prefer to serve vodka chilled, especially in the summertime. You can store it in the freezer before serving, as vodka doesn't freeze solid due to its alcohol content.
What's the difference between flavored vodka and infusing vodka with fresh ingredients?
Flavored vodka is commercially produced with natural or artificial flavors and is ready to drink. Infusing vodka with fresh ingredients is a process you can do at home, allowing for a more natural, subtle, and personalized flavor profile based on the fresh ingredients you select.
Is it safe to mix vodka with energy drinks?
Mixing vodka with energy drinks should be done with caution. The stimulating effects of caffeine in energy drinks can mask the depressant effects of alcohol, leading to a higher risk of overconsumption and dehydration. It's important to consume such mixtures in moderation and to listen to your body's signals.
How can I create a signature vodka cocktail for my summer party?
To create a signature vodka cocktail for your summer party, experiment with flavors that capture the essence of the season or your personal preference. Use seasonal fruits, unique mixers, or garnishes, and give your creation a catchy name to make it memorable for your guests.
Can vodka cocktails be pre-mixed and refrigerated?
Yes, many vodka cocktails can be pre-mixed and refrigerated. Prepare the mixture without ice to prevent dilution, and chill it until ready to serve. Add ice or frozen fruit just before serving to keep it cool.
What are some eco-friendly tips for serving summer vodka drinks?
To serve summer vodka drinks in an eco-friendly manner, use reusable glassware, metal or paper straws instead of plastic, locally sourced ingredients to reduce carbon footprint, and opt for organic or sustainably produced vodka brands.
Are there any vodka-based drinks that are particularly refreshing in hot weather?
Drinks like the Vodka Collins, with lemon juice and soda water, or a Cucumber Vodka Spritzer are particularly refreshing in hot weather. Their high water content and refreshing flavors make them ideal choices for staying cool and hydrated.
What safety tips should I keep in mind when serving vodka drinks at a summer event?
When serving vodka drinks at a summer event, provide plenty of water and non-alcoholic drink options to encourage hydration. Encourage responsible drinking, monitor consumption, and be prepared to help arrange transportation for guests who may need it to ensure everyone's safety.
