When it comes to ordering drinks at a bar, vodka is a popular choice among many patrons. With its neutral flavor and versatility, vodka can be used to create a wide range of delicious and refreshing cocktails. From classic drinks like the Cosmopolitan and the Screwdriver to more modern creations, there's a vodka-based cocktail to suit every taste and preference. In this article, we'll explore some of the most popular vodka drinks to order at a bar, along with their ingredients, preparation methods, and unique characteristics.
Classic Vodka Cocktails
Some vodka cocktails have stood the test of time and remain popular to this day. These classic drinks are often simple to make and require just a few ingredients, but they’re incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Here are a few examples of classic vodka cocktails you might want to try:
The Cosmopolitan
The Cosmopolitan is a fruity and sophisticated cocktail made with vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice. To make a Cosmopolitan, combine 1 1⁄2 ounces of vodka, 3⁄4 ounce of triple sec, 1⁄2 ounce of cranberry juice, and 1⁄2 ounce of lime juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake until chilled and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a lime wheel or a sprinkle of sugar, if desired.
The Screwdriver
The Screwdriver is a simple and refreshing cocktail made with vodka and orange juice. To make a Screwdriver, fill a highball glass with ice and add 1 1⁄2 ounces of vodka. Top with 4-6 ounces of orange juice and stir gently. You can also add a splash of grenadine for a slightly sweeter flavor.
The Bloody Mary
The Bloody Mary is a savory and spicy cocktail made with vodka, tomato juice, and various mixers. To make a Bloody Mary, combine 1 1⁄2 ounces of vodka, 1 ounce of tomato juice, 1⁄2 ounce of lemon juice, and 1⁄2 ounce of grenadine in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Add a dash of hot sauce, such as Tabasco, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Shake until chilled and strain into a highball glass filled with ice. Garnish with a celery stalk, a cherry tomato, or a slice of bacon, if desired.
| Cocktail | Ingredients | Preparation Method |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmopolitan | Vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, lime juice | Shake with ice and strain into a martini glass |
| Screwdriver | Vodka, orange juice | Fill a highball glass with ice and top with orange juice |
| Bloody Mary | Vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, grenadine, hot sauce | Shake with ice and strain into a highball glass filled with ice |
Modern Vodka Cocktails
In recent years, bartenders have created a wide range of innovative and delicious vodka cocktails using unique ingredients and preparation methods. Here are a few examples of modern vodka cocktails you might want to try:
The Cucumber Gimlet
The Cucumber Gimlet is a refreshing and light cocktail made with vodka, lime juice, and cucumber syrup. To make a Cucumber Gimlet, combine 1 1⁄2 ounces of vodka, 1⁄2 ounce of lime juice, and 1⁄2 ounce of cucumber syrup in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake until chilled and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a slice of cucumber or a sprig of mint, if desired.
The Espresso Martini
The Espresso Martini is a rich and decadent cocktail made with vodka, espresso, and coffee liqueur. To make an Espresso Martini, combine 1 1⁄2 ounces of vodka, 1⁄2 ounce of espresso, and 1⁄2 ounce of coffee liqueur in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake until chilled and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a coffee bean or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, if desired.
The Cranberry Lime Sparkler
The Cranberry Lime Sparkler is a fruity and bubbly cocktail made with vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice. To make a Cranberry Lime Sparkler, combine 1 1⁄2 ounces of vodka, 2 ounces of cranberry juice, and 1⁄2 ounce of lime juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake until chilled and strain into a highball glass filled with ice. Top with 2-3 ounces of sparkling water and garnish with a lime wheel or a sprinkle of sugar, if desired.
- Cucumber Gimlet: vodka, lime juice, cucumber syrup
- Espresso Martini: vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur
- Cranberry Lime Sparkler: vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, sparkling water
Vodka Cocktail Trends
In recent years, there have been several trends in the world of vodka cocktails. Some of the most popular trends include:
Craft Vodka
Craft vodka refers to small-batch, artisanal vodka made with unique ingredients and production methods. Craft vodka can add a unique flavor and character to cocktails, and many bartenders are now using craft vodka in their creations.
Infused Vodka
Infused vodka refers to vodka that has been flavored with fruits, herbs, or other ingredients. Infused vodka can add a unique flavor and aroma to cocktails, and many bartenders are now using infused vodka in their creations.
Sustainable Cocktails
Sustainable cocktails refer to cocktails made with environmentally friendly ingredients and production methods. Sustainable cocktails are becoming increasingly popular, and many bartenders are now using sustainable ingredients and practices in their creations.
- Craft vodka: small-batch, artisanal vodka made with unique ingredients and production methods
- Infused vodka: vodka flavored with fruits, herbs, or other ingredients
- Sustainable cocktails: cocktails made with environmentally friendly ingredients and production methods
What is the best type of vodka to use in cocktails?
+The best type of vodka to use in cocktails depends on personal preference and the specific cocktail recipe. Some popular vodka brands include Grey Goose, Ketel One, and Absolut.
How do I make a classic Cosmopolitan cocktail?
+To make a classic Cosmopolitan cocktail, combine 1 1⁄2 ounces of vodka, 3⁄4 ounce of triple sec, 1⁄2 ounce of cranberry juice, and 1⁄2 ounce of lime juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake until chilled and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a lime wheel or a sprinkle of sugar, if desired.
What is the difference between craft vodka and regular vodka?
+Craft vodka refers to small-batch, artisanal vodka made with unique ingredients and production methods. Craft vodka can add a unique flavor and character to cocktails, and many bartenders are now using craft vodka in their creations.
