Vodka is an exceptionally versatile spirit, thanks to its neutral taste and ability to mix well with a wide range of flavors. But with so many potential drink combinations, finding the perfect mixer to create a delicious cocktail can be overwhelming. Look no further, as we've got you covered! In this article, we'll dive into some of the best drinks to mix with vodka, with a focus on various flavor profiles and occasions.
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 Good Drink To Mix With Vodka Table of Contents
Classic Drink Mixtures with Vodka
Berry Delight: Vodka and Berry Mixers
Looking For The Best Vodka? You'll Love These Vodka Guides...
Classic Drink Mixtures with Vodka
When it comes to vodka mixers, there are a few timeless classics that every aspiring mixologist should master. These perennial favorites deliver consistently delicious results and offer a great starting point for exploring the world of vodka cocktails.
The Screwdriver
- 2 oz. vodka
- 5 oz. orange juice
How to mix: In a highball glass filled with ice, pour the vodka and orange juice. Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.
The Vodka Tonic
- 2 oz. vodka
- 4 oz. tonic water
- 1 lime wedge
How to mix: Fill a highball glass with ice cubes, add vodka and tonic water, and gently stir. Squeeze a lime wedge over the drink and drop it in.
The Bloody Mary
- 1 ½ oz. vodka
- 3 oz. tomato juice
- ½ oz. lemon juice
- 1 dash of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 dash of hot sauce
- 1 pinch of ground black pepper
- 1 pinch of smoked paprika
- Celery salt (for rimming the glass)
- 1 celery stalk and olives (for garnish)
How to mix: Rim a highball glass with celery salt and fill it with ice. In a mixing glass, combine the vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir well and pour the mixture into the prepared glass. Garnish with a celery stalk and olives.
Berry Delight: Vodka and Berry Mixers
For those with a taste for something fruity and refreshing, trying out a vodka and berry mixer combination is an ideal option.
Strawberry Lemonade Vodka
- 2 oz. vodka
- 4 oz. strawberry lemonade
- Fresh strawberries and lemon wheel (for garnish)
How to mix: Fill a highball glass with ice, add the vodka and strawberry lemonade, and stir well. Garnish with fresh strawberries and a lemon wheel.
Blueberry Vodka Fizz
- 2 oz. blueberry vodka
- ½ oz. lemon juice
- 4 oz. lemon-lime soda
- Fresh blueberries (for garnish)
How to mix: Fill a highball glass with ice, add the blueberry vodka and lemon juice. Top with lemon-lime soda and stir gently. Garnish with fresh blueberries.
What Is A Good Drink To Mix With Vodka Example:
Imagine hosting a lively backyard party on a warm summer evening—the sun setting and laughter filling the air. As the host, you want to impress your guests with a delightful and easy-to-make vodka cocktail.
For this occasion, try the refreshing Blueberry Vodka Fizz. With its vibrant colors, fruity aroma, and well-balanced flavor profile, this drink perfectly complements the lively atmosphere, satisfying the thirst and taste buds of you and your friends.
Now that you've discovered some fantastic drink mixers for vodka, it's time to get adventurous and start mixing! Whether it's a classic like the Screwdriver, a berry masterpiece like the Strawberry Lemonade Vodka, or something entirely new, explore the endless possibilities of vodka cocktails and impress your friends with your mixology skills. Feel free to share this article with your fellow vodka lovers and explore more comprehensive guides on everything vodka-related here at Vodka Doctors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a classic drink to mix with vodka?
A classic drink mixed with vodka is the Vodka Martini, made with vodka, dry vermouth, and garnished with an olive or a lemon twist. It's a staple in the cocktail world and known for its simplicity and elegance.
Can vodka be mixed with fruit juice?
Absolutely, vodka is one of the most mixable spirits and pairs well with a variety of fruit juices such as orange juice, cranberry juice, pineapple juice, and apple juice. One of the most popular mixes is vodka with orange juice, known as a Screwdriver.
What are some low-calorie mixers for vodka?
For a low-calorie option, mixing vodka with soda water, tonic water, or diet soda can be a great choice. Adding a squirt of lemon or lime can also enhance the flavor without adding significant calories.
Is it okay to mix vodka with energy drinks?
While vodka is often mixed with energy drinks, it should be done cautiously as the combination of alcohol and caffeine can mask the effects of intoxication. It's important to monitor your intake and be aware of the risks involved.
What herbs or spices go well with vodka?
Herbs like mint, basil, and dill can be muddled and mixed with vodka for a refreshing twist. Spices like ginger, cardamom, or even a small amount of cinnamon can also create unique and flavorful cocktails.
How do I make a vodka tonic?
To make a vodka tonic, simply combine 1 to 2 ounces of vodka with tonic water in a highball glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lime wedge for a classic, crisp cocktail.
What is a good fruity vodka cocktail?
A good fruity vodka cocktail is the Cosmopolitan, which includes vodka, cranberry juice, triple sec, and freshly squeezed lime juice, typically served with a lime twist or a small slice of lime.
Can vodka be mixed with milk or cream-based liquids?
Yes, vodka can be mixed with milk or cream-based liquids to make cocktails like White Russians, which mix vodka with coffee liqueur and cream, or a delightful dessert cocktail known as a Mudslide.
What's a refreshing summer vodka mix?
A refreshing summer vodka mix could be the Moscow Mule, which combines vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer, served in a copper mug. It's known for its crisp and refreshing taste, perfect for hot weather.
How do you mix vodka for a brunch cocktail?
Brunch cocktails like the Bloody Mary, with vodka, tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, lemon juice, horseradish, salt, and pepper, are a savory option. Alternatively, a Mimosa with half vodka and half champagne mixed with orange juice can add a spin to the traditional brunch drink.
What soda mixes well with vodka?
A variety of sodas mix well with vodka; cola, lemon-lime soda, and ginger ale are among the most popular. You can also try it with root beer or cream soda for a different flavor profile.
How can I add a spicy kick to a vodka cocktail?
For a spicy kick, try infusing your vodka with jalapeños or mixing your cocktail with a dash of hot sauce. Even a rim of spicy salt on your glass can add that extra zing to your drink.
What is a simple vodka cocktail for a novice bartender?
A simple vodka cocktail for a novice bartender could be the Vodka Soda. Mix vodka with soda water, add ice, and garnish with a wedge of lime or lemon for an easy yet satisfying drink.
Can I use flavored vodka for cocktails?
Certainly! Flavored vodka can add an interesting dimension to cocktails without the need for additional mixers. Whether it's citrus, berry, or vanilla-flavored vodka, these can complement your mixers and reduce the need for extra ingredients.
What is the best way to mix vodka and cranberry?
For a Vodka Cranberry, also known as a Cape Codder, pour 1 to 2 ounces of vodka over ice in a highball glass and fill with cranberry juice. A splash of lime can add a fresh twist to this simple cocktail.
How do I make a vodka punch for a party?
To make a vodka punch, you can mix vodka with a combination of fruit juices like orange, pineapple, and cranberry juice in a large punch bowl. Add slices of fresh fruit for garnish and a festive look, and consider a splash of soda or ginger ale for some fizz.
Is it a good idea to mix vodka with coffee?
Yes, vodka can be mixed with coffee to create unique drinks like the Espresso Martini, where vodka is shaken with fresh espresso, coffee liqueur, and a bit of simple syrup for sweetness.
What are some dessert cocktails using vodka?
Dessert cocktails using vodka include the Chocolate Martini, made with vodka, chocolate liqueur, and a touch of cream, or a Vanilla Vodka Root Beer Float, which combines vanilla vodka with root beer and a scoop of ice cream.
How do I properly mix a vodka cocktail?
To properly mix a vodka cocktail, start by selecting quality ingredients. Fill a shaker or glass with ice, add your measures of vodka and mixers, and either stir or shake until well mixed. Strain into the appropriate glass and garnish as desired.
Can vodka be used in hot drinks?
Vodka can indeed be used in hot drinks like the Hot Toddy, mixing vodka with hot water or tea, honey, lemon, and sometimes spices like cloves or cinnamon sticks. It's a soothing choice for a chilly day.
What are some exotic vodka cocktail mixes?
Some exotic vodka cocktail mixes include the Vodka Gimlet with a splash of fresh lime juice or the Black Russian, which combines vodka with coffee liqueur. For a taste of the tropics, try mixing vodka with lychee juice and a splash of triple sec.
