If you've ever found yourself at a bar or a party, you've probably encountered the classic cranberry and vodka cocktail. This simple yet satisfying drink is a staple in the world of beverages, but do you know what it's called? In this article, we take a deep dive into the origins and variations of this popular cocktail, so you can order it with confidence and even make it at home. Say "cheers" to knowing everything there is about the cranberry and vodka drink!
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 A Cranberry And Vodka Called Table of Contents
The Classic Cocktail: Cranberry and Vodka
How to Make the Perfect Cape Codder
Looking For The Best Vodka? You'll Love These Vodka Guides...
The Classic Cocktail: Cranberry and Vodka
First things first, the cranberry and vodka cocktail is commonly known as the Cape Codder or simply the Cape Cod. This iconic drink consists of vodka and cranberry juice, typically served over ice in a highball or Collins glass, and often garnished with a lime wedge.
Origin of the Cape Codder
The exact origins of the Cape Codder are difficult to pinpoint. Some sources attribute the creation of the drink to the Ocean Spray cranberry company, which promoted the combination of cranberry juice and vodka in the 1940s in an effort to boost its sales. Others believe that the cocktail was first concocted at the Cranberry Growers Cooperative in Massachusetts, where workers would commonly enjoy a mix of vodka and cranberry juice after a long day in the fields. Regardless of its precise origins, the Cape Codder has become an American classic, enjoyed by vodka lovers all around the world.
Variations on the Cape Codder
While the basic recipe for the Cape Codder calls for vodka and cranberry juice, there are countless variations that you can try, adding a twist to this classic cocktail. Here are a few popular ones:
- Sea Breeze: Add a splash of grapefruit juice to your Cape Codder.
- Bay Breeze: Swap out the grapefruit juice for pineapple juice to create a tropical-flavored cousin of the Cape Codder.
- Woo Woo: Add a splash of peach schnapps to your cranberry and vodka for an extra fruity kick.
- Madras: Add equal parts orange juice and cranberry juice to the vodka for a refreshing and citrusy flavor.
How to Make the Perfect Cape Codder
Making the perfect Cape Codder is easy and requires minimal ingredients. Here's the basic recipe:
- Fill a highball or Collins glass with ice.
- Pour 1.5 ounces of vodka over the ice. You can use any vodka of your choice, but a high-quality vodka will elevate the taste of your drink.
- Top off the glass with cranberry juice. For a more flavorful cocktail, choose a cranberry juice with a high percentage of real fruit juice, as opposed to a cocktail mix or juice blend. Freshly squeezed cranberry juice will yield the best results.
- Stir the mixture gently to combine the flavors.
- Garnish with a lime wedge, which adds a hint of brightness to the drink, and balances out the sweetness of the cranberry juice.
What Is A Cranberry And Vodka Called Example:
If you're ready to put your newfound knowledge of the Cape Codder to use, here's a delicious and easy recipe for a homemade Cranberry and Vodka cocktail:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 ounces of vodka (preferably a premium brand)
- 4-6 ounces of cranberry juice (100% juice is best)
- Lime wedge for garnish
- Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball or Collins glass with ice.
2. Pour the vodka over the ice.
3. Fill the glass with cranberry juice, leaving room at the top for the garnish.
4. Stir the cocktail gently with a swizzle stick or bar spoon.
5. Add the lime wedge for garnish and serve immediately.
Experiment with the variations mentioned above to create your perfect Cranberry and Vodka cocktail.
Now that you know the origins, variations, and recipe for a classic Cape Codder, you're ready to impress your friends and family with your cocktail knowledge. We hope this article inspires you to explore other remarkable vodka-based drinks and guides on Vodka Doctors. Feel free to share this article with other aspiring mixologists, and don't forget to toast to good health with a perfect Cape Codder in hand!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cranberry and vodka cocktail commonly called?
The cranberry and vodka cocktail is commonly known as a Cape Codder or simply a Cape Cod. It’s a simple mix of cranberry juice and vodka, and is a popular choice at many bars and restaurants.
How do you make a classic Cape Codder cocktail?
To make a classic Cape Codder, you need to mix vodka and cranberry juice over ice in a highball glass. Typically, the ratio is 1 part vodka to 2 parts cranberry juice, garnished with a lime wedge.
Can I use any type of cranberry juice for this cocktail?
Most prefer to use 100% pure cranberry juice for a more authentic and less sweet cocktail. However, cranberry juice cocktail, which is typically sweeter and lighter, is also frequently used. The choice depends on personal preference regarding sweetness and strength of cranberry flavor.
Is this drink suitable for a diet?
Since vodka and cranberry juice are relatively low in calories, a Cape Codder can be suitable for some diets, especially if you use a light or diet cranberry juice. However, alcohol consumption should still be in moderation.
What type of vodka is best for a Cranberry and Vodka cocktail?
A smooth, high-quality vodka is ideal for a Cranberry and Vodka cocktail, as it will blend seamlessly with the juice. But, any preferred vodka, including flavored varieties, can be used based on individual taste.
Can I add other ingredients to a Cape Codder?
Absolutely. Adding other ingredients like fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, or garnishes such as mint or rosemary can give your Cape Codder a personal twist.
What is the best way to serve a Cranberry and Vodka?
The Cape Codder is best served in a highball glass with plenty of ice. Garnishing with a lime wedge not only adds to the presentation but also offers a fresh zesty flavor to complement the drink.
Are there any variations of a Cape Codder?
Yes, there are several variations such as the Sea Breeze (which includes grapefruit juice), the Bay Breeze (with pineapple juice), and the Madras (with both orange and cranberry juice).
Can I make a batch of Cranberry and Vodka for a party?
Indeed, you can mix a large batch in a pitcher, following the same proportions. Just remember to add the ice to individual glasses rather than the pitcher to avoid diluting the cocktail.
What is the origin of the Cape Codder cocktail?
The Cape Codder cocktail evolved from an earlier drink called the "Red Devil," which dates back to the 1940s. Over time, the recipe was simplified to the two main ingredients and gained popularity along with the marketing of cranberry juice.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Cape Codder?
Yes, a non-alcoholic version, often called a “Cranberry Cooler,” uses cranberry juice and soda water or ginger ale instead of vodka.
What food pairs well with a Cranberry and Vodka cocktail?
The tartness of a Cape Codder balances well with rich, creamy dishes such as cheese platters or seafood appetizers.
How long has the Cape Codder been popular?
The Cape Codder gained widespread popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly in the United States, and remains a staple in the cocktail scene.
Is cranberry juice beneficial for health?
Cranberry juice is high in antioxidants and has been traditionally known for its urinary tract health benefits. However, one should be conscious of the sugar content in sweetened cranberry juice varieties.
How strong is a Cranberry and Vodka cocktail?
The strength of the drink depends on the ratio of vodka to cranberry juice. A typical serving with the recommended proportions has about 10-15% alcohol content by volume.
What holiday is the Cape Codder especially popular during?
The Cape Codder is popular during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, partially due to cranberries being a seasonal fruit and used in traditional holiday dishes.
Can I mix a Cranberry and Vodka cocktail ahead of time?
Yes, you can pre-mix the cocktail and refrigerate it. Just be sure to add ice and garnishes when serving to maintain the best flavor and presentation.
What do cranberries taste like?
Cranberries have a tart, slightly bitter taste with a hint of sweetness, which is why they’re often combined with other sweeter ingredients.
How much lime should I use to garnish a Cape Codder?
A typical garnish is a slice or wedge of lime, enough to squeeze a small amount of juice into the drink if desired. This adds a fresh, zesty kick to the cocktail.
Are there any famous variations of the Cranberry and Vodka cocktail in pop culture?
The Cranberry and Vodka cocktail, particularly the Sea Breeze variation, was popularized by television shows in the 1990s like "Sex and the City." This has contributed to the drink’s ongoing trendiness in pop culture.
Is a Cape Codder considered a highball?
Yes, the Cape Codder is considered a highball cocktail, which is defined by its simple mixture of alcohol and a larger proportion of a non-alcoholic mixer, typically served over ice in a tall glass.
