written by
Bert Gallagher

Drinks to Mix with Vodka: Top Tantalizing Combinations

12 min read

Vodka, a versatile and popular spirit, offers a smooth and subtle taste that makes it an excellent base for a wide variety of cocktails. When you're looking to expand your bartending skills or impress your friends at a gathering, knowing what to mix with vodka can help you whip up impressive drinks that cater to diverse taste preferences.

From classic concoctions like the iconic cosmopolitan, which uses vodka as the foundation for fruity flavors like cranberry and lime, to more tropical options like a pineapple vodka punch, you'll find that vodka serves as the perfect starter for both strong and subtle flavor profiles. Exploring different mixers and combinations allows you to harness the spirit's potential, creating unique cocktail experiences that'll keep your guests coming back for more.

Not only can you experiment with various fruit juices and liqueurs, but you can also try options like a spicy Bloody Mary, which combines vodka with tomato, horseradish, garlic, and lemon. By experimenting with these simple ingredients, you can easily master the art of creating enjoyable vodka-based cocktails to share with friends and family.

Drinks to Mix with Vodka

Classic Vodka Cocktails

Vodka is a versatile spirit used in a variety of classic cocktails. In this section, we will cover some popular vodka-based cocktails and their main components, allowing you to easily mix and enjoy these classics at your next gathering.

Bloody Mary

A classic brunch choice, the Bloody Mary includes vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, a mixture of spices (such as Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and celery salt), and a garnish like celery, olives, or pickles. Simply mix the ingredients together in a shaker and pour over ice in a glass.

  • Vodka
  • Tomato juice
  • Lemon juice
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Hot sauce
  • Celery salt
  • Garnish: celery, olives, pickles

Moscow Mule

The Moscow Mule is a refreshing cocktail consisting of vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. To make one, you simply combine the ingredients in a copper mug or glass filled with ice, and garnish with a lime wedge.

  • Vodka
  • Ginger beer
  • Lime juice
  • Garnish: lime wedge

Vodka Martini

A vodka martini is a variation of the classic gin martini, substituting vodka for gin. To create a vodka martini, mix vodka and dry vermouth in a shaker with ice, then strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with an olive or lemon twist.

  • Vodka
  • Dry vermouth
  • Garnish: olive or lemon twist

Screwdriver

The Screwdriver is a simple, yet classic, vodka cocktail consisting of vodka and orange juice served over ice in a highball glass. Mix the two ingredients and garnish with an orange wedge.

  • Vodka
  • Orange juice
  • Garnish: orange wedge

Black Russian

The Black Russian is a short cocktail made of vodka and coffee liqueur, such as Kahlúa. To make it, mix the vodka and coffee liqueur in an old-fashioned glass with ice and stir gently.

  • Vodka
  • Coffee liqueur

White Russian

A creamy twist on the Black Russian, the White Russian adds heavy cream or milk to the mix. In an old-fashioned glass, combine vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream or milk over ice and stir gently.

  • Vodka
  • Coffee liqueur
  • Heavy cream or milk

Cosmopolitan

The Cosmopolitan is a stylish and sophisticated cocktail made with vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice. Shake the ingredients with ice in a cocktail shaker and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lime wheel.

  • Vodka
  • Triple sec
  • Cranberry juice
  • Lime juice
  • Garnish: lime wheel

Cape Codder

Finally, the Cape Codder is a refreshing vodka cocktail made with cranberry juice and lime juice. Pour the ingredients over ice in a highball glass, stir, and garnish with a lime wedge.

  • Vodka
  • Cranberry juice
  • Lime juice
  • Garnish: lime wedge

Refreshing Vodka Mixers

Vodka Tonic

A classic and easy-to-make option is the Vodka Tonic. To create this refreshing drink, simply mix vodka with tonic water and garnish with a lime wedge. The bitterness of the tonic water perfectly complements the smoothness of the vodka, creating an invigorating beverage that's perfect for any occasion.

Vodka Cranberry

If you prefer a fruitier option, the Vodka Cranberry is an excellent choice. Mix vodka with cranberry juice to achieve a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of orange or pineapple juice. This cocktail is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with its vibrant red color.

  • Vodka
  • Cranberry juice
  • Optional: Orange or pineapple juice

Vodka Soda

For a simple and low-calorie option, try a Vodka Soda. Combine vodka with soda water, and garnish with a wedge of lime, lemon, or even cucumber for a crisp and refreshing taste. This versatile cocktail can be customized by adding a splash of your favorite fruit juice or flavored seltzer.

Sea Breeze

Enjoy a taste of the tropics with a Sea Breeze cocktail. This flavorful concoction combines vodka, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice, resulting in a vibrant and refreshing beverage. The tartness of the grapefruit juice pairs well with the sweetness of the cranberry juice, creating a delightful balance.

  • Vodka
  • Cranberry juice
  • Optional: Grapefruit juice

Madras

The Madras is another fruity and refreshing vodka-based cocktail. Mix vodka with cranberry and orange juices for a well-balanced, citrusy treat. This enticing blend offers a twist on the classic vodka cranberry, perfect for those who favor an orange juice-based cocktail.

To summarize, there are several refreshing vodka mixer options available to suit various tastes, from the classic Vodka Tonic to fruity options like the Madras. Experiment with different combinations of juices and garnishes to create your perfect vodka cocktail.

Juices to Mix With Vodka

Cocktails made with vodka and juice are a popular choice for many due to their refreshing and delightful taste. Mixing vodka with a variety of juices will allow you to explore different flavor combinations, whether you prefer sweet, bitter, or more complex profiles. Here are a few standout choices to consider when creating your vodka-based drink:

  • Cranberry Juice: Cranberry vodka cocktails never disappoint. Combining vodka with cranberry juice results in a perfectly balanced sweet and tart drink. Enhance this mix by adding fresh lime juice and simple syrup for extra depth and flavor.
  • Orange Juice: A classic choice for vodka cocktails is orange juice. The well-known Screwdriver consists of vodka and orange juice served over ice. This mixture adds natural sweetness to your drink, making it an enjoyable and easy-to-make option.
  • Tomato Juice: If you're looking for a more savory option, tomato juice is the go-to mixer. A perennial favorite is the Bloody Mary, which combines vodka with tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, and other flavorings to create a satisfyingly savory cocktail. Adjust the level of spiciness to your liking with hot sauce and seasonings.
  • Pineapple Juice: For a tropical twist on your vodka-based drink, consider pineapple juice. This dependable mixer delivers a sweet and fruity taste. Combine vodka with pineapple juice to elevate a standard cocktail option to something more exotic.

When selecting which juice to mix with vodka, consider the flavors you're aiming for and how they complement one another. The various options of sweet (orange juice, pineapple juice), bitter (cranberry juice), and savory (tomato juice) can help you create your ideal cocktail.

Other Ingredients to Enhance Vodka Drinks

When mixing vodka drinks, feel free to experiment with a variety of ingredients that will enhance the flavor of your cocktail. In this section, we'll explore some popular options that work well with vodka, including juices and grenadine.

Juices

Adding various fruit juices to your vodka drink can bring a burst of flavor and color. Here are some popular options for juices to mix with vodka:

  • Orange Juice: The classic Screwdriver cocktail features vodka and orange juice, providing a citrusy flavor and refreshing taste.
  • Cranberry Juice: Combining vodka with cranberry juice gives you a popular and flavorful cocktail known as a Vodka Cranberry or Cape Cod.
  • Pineapple Juice: For a tropical twist, mix vodka with pineapple juice to create a fruity and lively drink.
  • Grapefruit Juice: A refreshing Salty Dog cocktail can be made with vodka, grapefruit juice, and a salted rim.
  • Apple Juice: Mix vodka with apple juice for a crisp and sweet cocktail that's easy to sip.

Grenadine

Grenadine, a sweet and tangy syrup made from pomegranate, can add a fruity and vibrant touch to vodka-based cocktails. Try these combinations with grenadine:

  • Vodka Sunrise: Combine vodka, orange juice, and a splash of grenadine for a colorful spin on the classic Tequila Sunrise.
  • Sea Breeze: Mix vodka, cranberry juice, grapefruit juice, and a dash of grenadine for a tasty and visually appealing drink.

Remember, there's no need to follow strict recipes when mixing vodka drinks. Feel free to experiment with different juices and grenadine to create new and unique cocktails that cater to your personal taste. Use the suggestions above as a starting point and let your imagination take over!

Creating Your Own Vodka Cocktail Recipes

When it comes to creating your own vodka cocktail recipes, the possibilities are endless. Vodka is a versatile spirit known for its neutral flavor, making it the perfect base for a wide range of drinks.

To start, think about the flavors you enjoy and find complementary ingredients that will enhance the taste of vodka. Fresh fruits, herbs, and citrus juices are common additions that can help you create a refreshing and tasty drink.

For example, let's say you want to create a fruity cocktail. You could mix vodka with pineapple juice and a melon liqueur, like Midori. This combination will give you a vibrant, eye-catching drink with a delightful fruity taste.

Another option is to experiment with classic vodka cocktails, such as the Vodka Martini. With just a few changes to proportions or added flavors, you can create a unique twist on a timeless drink:

  • Classic Vodka Martini: Mix 2 oz vodka, 1/2 oz dry vermouth, and ice. Shake or stir and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with an olive or lemon twist.
  • Dirty Vodka Martini: Follow the classic recipe, but add 1/2 oz olive brine and garnish with a few olives.
  • Fruity Vodka Martini: Use flavored vodka, such as raspberry or citrus, and replace the dry vermouth with a fruit liqueur of your choice.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different garnishes and presentation techniques to make your concoctions visually appealing. A sugar rim, fresh fruit skewers, or even edible flowers can elevate your cocktails to the next level.

Here's a quick guide to help you mix and match ingredients:

Base Spirit: Vodka

Fruit/Herb: Mint, Basil, Strawberry, Raspberry

Juice: Lime, Lemon, Orange, Pineapple, Cranberry

Liqueur: Triple sec, Cointreau, Chambord, St. Germain

Bitters: Angostura, Orange, Peychaud's

Toppers: Club soda, tonic water, ginger beer, champagne

Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you experiment with flavors and techniques, the easier it becomes to craft personalized vodka cocktails that you and your guests will love. Enjoy the process, and always drink responsibly.

Popular Vodka Brands for Mixing

When it comes to mixing cocktails, the choice of vodka brand is crucial. Here are some popular vodka brands that bartenders and enthusiasts frequently recommend for mixing:

  • Absolut Vodka: You can't go wrong with this classic choice. Its clean flavor profile allows it to blend seamlessly with a variety of mixers, making it versatile enough for countless cocktails.
  • Equality Vodka: An ultra premium vodka dedicated to embodying the highest standards. It provides silky smooth, premium vodka that won the gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
  • Tito's Handmade Vodka: This American favorite is well known for its smooth texture and subtle sweet notes, making it the perfect choice for cocktails, where vodka's delicate flavors are allowed to shine.
  • Belvedere: Regarded for its premium quality, the Polish-made Belvedere vodka offers a unique unfiltered Single Estate rye option called Lake Bartężek, which boasts notes of mint, rye bread, and fresh grass that can elevate a cocktail to new levels of sophistication.
  • Sobieski Vodka: A popular choice among bartenders for its smoothness and approachability, Sobieski works well with infusions and can be used in various cocktails, such as the refreshing Ousia.

To help you decide which vodka to use in your cocktails, consider the following factors:

  1. Flavor profile: Ideally, the vodka should be able to blend well with the other ingredients, without overpowering them.
  2. Smoothness: A smooth vodka makes for a well-balanced cocktail and a more enjoyable drinking experience.
  3. Price: While premium vodkas can offer exceptional quality, there are still many affordable brands that provide excellent results in mixed drinks.

Here's a quick comparison table of the popular vodka brands covered above:

Absolut Vodka | Origin Sweden | Price Range $$ | Unique Features Clean flavor, versatile

Equality Vodka | Origin USA | Price Range $$ | Unique Features Smooth, unique flavors

Tito’s Vodka | Origin USA | Price Range $$ | Unique Features Smooth, subtle sweet notes

Belvedere | Origin Poland | Price Range $$$ | Unique Features Unfiltered option, unique flavors

Sobieski | Origin Poland | Price Range $ | Unique Features Smooth, approachable, suitable for infusions

So, based on your preferences and budget, you'll find the right vodka for your cocktails, ensuring an enjoyable and high-quality drink every time. Cheers!

Enjoying Vodka Drinks During Happy Hour

During happy hour, it's important to have a variety of refreshing and delicious vodka cocktails for you and your friends to enjoy. With so many options, you'll have no problem finding the perfect drink to suit your taste buds.

Try mixing up a Strawberry Gin & Tonic, which uses a homemade fruit syrup to elevate the classic drink. Feel free to swap the strawberry syrup with any other fruit syrup of your choice to tailor your drink to your preferences.

- Strawberry Gin & Tonic:
  - Homemade fruit syrup (strawberry or your choice)
  - Gin
  - Tonic water

Another interesting option is the Autumn Spiced Tonic. This drink starts with a DIY vodka infusion custom-made for the season. Mix the infused vodka with tonic water for a simple, yet flavorful cocktail.

- Autumn Spiced Tonic:
  - Seasonally infused vodka
  - Tonic water

If you're looking for something colorful and tropical, give the Green and Yellow Striped cocktail a try. This drink combines pineapple juice with a vibrant green melon liqueur like Midori. Mix the two ingredients or layer them in your glass for an eye-catching effect.

- Green and Yellow Striped:
  - Pineapple juice
  - Midori or other green melon liqueur

Finally, the Vodka Blush Cocktail is perfect for a more elegant happy hour. This exquisite cocktail is made with vodka, grenadine, and fresh lime juice, garnished with a sprig of rosemary and served in a champagne flute.

- Vodka Blush Cocktail:
  - Vodka
  - Grenadine
  - Fresh lime juice
  - Rosemary for garnish

With these delightful vodka cocktails, you and your friends are sure to enjoy a memorable and satisfying happy hour. Just remember to always drink responsibly and savor the flavors of each carefully crafted concoction.