Vodka Recipes

Vodka, the clear and crisp spirit hailing from the vast expanses of Eastern Europe and Russia, has etched its mark on the cocktail world with undeniable vigor. Its versatile nature has given birth to an array of cocktails, each steeped in history and brimming with tales of glamour and intrigue. Consider the iconic Moscow Mule, with its ginger kick, served in a chilled copper mug, evoking memories of cold Russian nights warmed by lively conversations. Or the sophisticated Martini, shaken or stirred, that’s been the drink of choice for the suave and the elite, gracing the hands of movie stars and spies alike. The Cosmopolitan, with its vibrant pink hue, encapsulates the glitz and glamour of urban nightlife. These vodka-based wonders, and many more, serve not just as beverages but as windows into the past, reflecting the culture, events, and personalities that have shaped them. As we raise a glass to these time-honored concoctions, we toast to the rich tapestry of history they represent.

Holiday Mule Recipe

December 1, 2023December 1, 2023Deliver Liquor Editor

The Holiday Mule is a delightful and festive cocktail that offers a seasonal twist on the classic Moscow Mule. This vibrant drink is crafted by blending smooth vodka with the spicy kick of ginger beer, creating a harmonious base. To infuse the holiday spirit, a generous splash of cranberry juice is added, lending the cocktail a cheerful, ruby-red hue and a balance of tartness and sweetness. The drink is often served in a traditional copper mug, which keeps it delightfully chilled. To garnish, a sprig of rosemary and a few fresh cranberries are placed atop, not only enhancing the visual appeal but also adding a subtle hint of herbal aroma. The Holiday Mule is a perfect blend of warmth and zest, making it an ideal choice for toasting during the festive season.

Ingredients:

2 oz vodka
4 oz ginger beer
2 oz cranberry juice (100% juice for best flavor)
Juice of half a lime
Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
Sprig of rosemary (for garnish)
Ice cubes

Instructions:

Prepare the Mug: Start by chilling a traditional copper mug in the freezer for about 5 minutes. This helps keep your cocktail cold and refreshing.
Combine Ingredients: Remove the mug from the freezer and fill it halfway with ice cubes. Pour in 2 oz of vodka, freshly squeezed lime juice, and 2 oz of cranberry juice over the ice.
Add Ginger Beer: Gently pour 4 oz of ginger beer into the mug. The ginger beer adds a delightful fizz and spiciness to the cocktail.
Mix Gently: With a spoon or a stirrer, mix the ingredients gently. It’s important not to stir too vigorously as it can reduce the fizziness of the ginger beer.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish your Holiday Mule with a few fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. The rosemary not only adds a touch of festive flair but also infuses a subtle herbal aroma into the drink.
Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy the blend of spicy, tart, and sweet flavors that make this cocktail a holiday favorite.

Tip: Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of cranberry juice, or add a dash of simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter drink. Always use good quality vodka and ginger beer for the best taste experience.

This Holiday Mule is the perfect cocktail to serve at any festive gathering, offering a delightful blend of traditional holiday flavors with a modern twist. Cheers!

Candy Cane Cocktail

November 20, 2023November 20, 2023Deliver Liquor Editor

The Candy Cane Cocktail is a delightful and visually appealing drink, perfect for adding a festive touch to any holiday gathering. This cocktail is a harmonious blend of sweet and minty flavors, embodying the classic taste of the holiday season.

At its core, the Candy Cane Cocktail features vanilla vodka as its primary spirit, providing a smooth and subtly sweet base. To this, white crème de menthe is added, infusing the drink with a refreshing mint flavor that is reminiscent of traditional candy canes. The minty essence not only contributes to the taste but also imparts a gentle, cooling sensation, making each sip more invigorating.

The cocktail is further enhanced with a splash of cranberry juice, which introduces a slightly tart and fruity element to the mix. This addition creates a beautiful balance, ensuring that the sweetness is not overpowering. The cranberry juice also adds a lovely hint of color to the drink, giving it a festive and cheerful appearance.

For garnish, a mini candy cane is often hooked on the rim of the glass, an iconic symbol of the holiday season. This not only makes the drink visually appealing but also allows the subtle peppermint flavor to infuse into the cocktail, enriching its taste profile.

Served in a chilled martini glass, the Candy Cane Cocktail is both a treat for the eyes and the palate. Its combination of flavors is designed to evoke the warmth and joy of the holiday season, making it an ideal choice for holiday parties, family gatherings, or as a cozy nightcap beside the fire. This cocktail is not just a drink; it’s a festive celebration in a glass.

This Candy Cane Cocktail is a festive, delicious treat that combines the sweet flavors of vanilla and peppermint with a hint of cranberry tartness. Perfect for holiday parties or a cozy night in, this cocktail is sure to bring some holiday cheer.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 ounces vanilla vodka
1 ounce white crème de menthe
1/2 ounce cranberry juice
Crushed candy canes (for rim)
Whole candy cane (for garnish)
Ice

Instructions:

Prepare the Glass: Start by chilling your martini glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, crush a few candy canes and place the pieces on a small plate.
Rim the Glass: Once the glass is chilled, moisten the rim with a little water or cranberry juice. Gently dip the rim into the crushed candy canes, rotating it to ensure an even coating.
Mix the Cocktail: In a shaker, combine the vanilla vodka, white crème de menthe, and cranberry juice. Fill the shaker with ice, secure the lid, and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into your prepared martini glass, ensuring that no ice falls into the glass.
Garnish: Finally, garnish with a whole candy cane either placed inside the drink or hooked onto the rim of the glass.
Enjoy: Your Candy Cane Cocktail is ready to enjoy! Sip and savor the festive flavors.

This cocktail is simple to make but delivers a delightful blend of holiday flavors. The vanilla and peppermint create a sweet and refreshing taste, while the cranberry juice adds a touch of tartness for balance. The crushed candy cane rim not only adds to the flavor but also makes for a festive and eye-catching presentation. Cheers to a joyful holiday season!

Screwdriver

November 7, 2023November 7, 2023Deliver Liquor Editor

The Screwdriver is a timeless cocktail that embodies the art of simplicity in mixology. This drink is lauded for its straightforward, unfussy blend of ingredients that produce a refreshing and robust taste. At its core, the Screwdriver marries the smooth, clear punch of vodka with the citrus zest of orange juice, resulting in a beverage that’s both invigorating and easy to sip.

The cocktail’s history is a bit hazy, but it’s often linked to the resourceful American oil workers of the mid-20th century who purportedly mixed vodka into their orange juice while on the job, stirring it with their screwdrivers, hence the name. This anecdote paints a picture of the Screwdriver not just as a drink, but as a nod to ingenuity.

In its essence, the Screwdriver is a study in balance. The neutrality of vodka serves as the perfect canvas for the bright and slightly tangy flavor of orange juice. When served in a chilled highball glass, brimming with ice, it’s a beverage that doesn’t demand complexity to be complete. Its appearance is cheerful and inviting, often garnished with a slice of orange perched on the rim or a spiral of zest within, showcasing the fruit’s vibrant hue.

Beyond its simplicity, the Screwdriver is versatile. It can be enjoyed as a brunch staple, an evening refresher, or a casual social lubricant. It’s a democratic cocktail, unpretentious and accessible, requiring no rare ingredients or elaborate techniques. Whether it’s enjoyed at a beachfront bar, at a cozy home gathering, or anywhere in between, the Screwdriver remains a steadfast favorite, a testament to the enduring appeal of straightforward, honest flavors.

Ingredients:

Vodka: 2 ounces (60 ml)
Orange Juice: 4 to 6 ounces (120 to 180 ml), freshly squeezed is preferable
Ice Cubes
Garnish: Orange slice or twist (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare Your Glass: Choose a highball glass for the ideal presentation.
Add Ice: Fill the glass with ice cubes to the brim.
Pour the Vodka: Measure 2 ounces of vodka and pour it over the ice.
Top with Orange Juice: Pour 4 to 6 ounces of orange juice into the glass. The amount of juice depends on how strong or weak you prefer your cocktail.
Stir the Mixture: Use a stirrer or a spoon to mix the vodka and orange juice together until well combined.
Garnish: If you like, add a slice or twist of orange on the rim of the glass for a decorative touch.
Serve: Serve the drink immediately to enjoy the crisp, cool flavors.

Tips:

For the best flavor, use fresh-squeezed orange juice.
Adjust the ratio of vodka to orange juice according to your personal taste preference. Some like a stronger vodka presence, while others prefer a fruitier drink.
If you want to add a modern twist, a splash of soda water can lighten the drink and add some effervescence.

Cheers to a classic that’s as easy to make as it is enjoyable to sip!

White Russian

November 5, 2023November 5, 2023Deliver Liquor Editor

A White Russian is a decadently smooth cocktail that seduces with its simple yet indulgent blend of flavors. This creamy concoction is traditionally composed of equal parts vodka and coffee liqueur, topped with a generous splash of heavy cream. The ingredients are layered in a chilled old-fashioned glass filled with ice, creating a visually appealing gradient that beckons the drinker to stir it into a silky beverage. The velvety texture of the cream marries the spirited punch of vodka and the sweet, rich depth of the coffee liqueur, making each sip an embrace of contrasting yet complementary tastes. The White Russian’s elegance lies in its uncomplicated preparation, allowing the rich interplay of cream and spirit to delight the palate. It’s a sumptuous choice for a post-dinner conversation or a laid-back evening at home.

Ingredients:

2 oz Vodka
1 oz Coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
1 oz Heavy cream (or to taste)

Instructions:

Prepare Your Glass: Begin by filling an old-fashioned glass with ice cubes to the brim. This ensures your cocktail stays chilled and dilutes slowly, maintaining its rich texture.
Add the Spirits: Pour 2 ounces of vodka over the ice. Vodka acts as a neutral canvas for this drink, letting the flavors of the coffee liqueur shine while providing a clean, spirited backbone.
Sweeten with Liqueur: Follow the vodka with 1 ounce of coffee liqueur. This sweet, dark spirit infuses the drink with deep coffee notes and a touch of sweetness.
Layer the Cream: Slowly pour 1 ounce of heavy cream over the back of a spoon above the drink so that it floats on top of the liqueur and vodka. The visual layering is part of the allure of a White Russian, adding a touch of elegance.
Mix it Up (Optional): Before taking a sip, you may choose to stir the cocktail gently. Doing so blends the cream with the vodka and coffee liqueur, creating a uniform creamy hue and ensuring each sip is as flavorful as the last.
Garnish (Optional): For a touch of flair, you might garnish with a sprinkle of grated chocolate or a coffee bean, but the drink’s simplicity is part of its charm.
Serve: Enjoy your White Russian promptly while it’s cold. The chill not only provides refreshment but also keeps the cream from separating too quickly from the alcohol.

This cocktail strikes a balance between the robustness of vodka, the sweet complexity of coffee liqueur, and the luxurious texture of cream, making it a perennial favorite for a relaxing evening or as a decadent after-dinner treat.

Cosmopolitan

November 3, 2023Deliver Liquor Editor

A cosmopolitan cocktail, often referred to as a “cosmo,” presents a chic combination of flavors that has captured the taste buds of cocktail enthusiasts around the globe. This sophisticated concoction starts with a smooth base of vodka, which is then elevated with a splash of tangy triple sec. To this, a generous squeeze of fresh lime juice is added, bringing a zesty brightness to the mixture. The defining character of a cosmopolitan comes from its cranberry juice, which imparts a ruby hue and a balance of tart and sweet notes. Shaken over ice and then strained into an elegant martini glass, the cosmopolitan is usually finished with a curl of orange peel or a lime wheel, making it as visually appealing as it is delightful to sip. Its popularity soared in the late 20th century, becoming a symbol of urban sophistication, partly propelled into the limelight by the American television series “Sex and the City.”

Ingredients:

1 1/2 ounces of premium vodka
1 ounce cranberry juice (100% juice for the best taste)
1/2 ounce triple sec (orange-flavored liqueur)
1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
Ice cubes
A strip of orange zest or a lime wheel, for garnish

Instructions:

Chill the Glass: Begin by placing your martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes to chill. A cold glass will keep your cosmopolitan crisp and refreshing.
Mix the Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, cranberry juice, triple sec, and freshly squeezed lime juice. The quality of the vodka and the use of fresh lime juice can make a noticeable difference in the taste of your cosmopolitan.
Shake it Up: Add a handful of ice cubes to the shaker. Seal it tightly and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. The shaking not only chills the mixture but also helps to slightly dilute the drink, balancing the strength of the alcohol with the other flavors.
Strain and Serve: Take your martini glass out of the freezer. Strain the cosmopolitan mixture into the chilled glass, leaving the ice behind in the shaker. Straining it finely will ensure a smooth drink without ice shards.
Garnish: Express the oils of an orange zest over the drink by twisting it, which adds a subtle fragrance and a hint of citrus oil to the surface. Alternatively, a lime wheel can be placed on the rim of the glass or floated atop the drink.
Enjoy: Serve immediately. The cosmopolitan is best enjoyed fresh, the perfect blend of tart, sweet, and bitter, capturing the essence of what has made this cocktail a modern classic.

Remember, the key to a perfect cosmopolitan lies in the balance of its ingredients, so precise measurements are encouraged. Adjust to taste, and don’t be afraid to experiment to find your perfect version of this beloved cocktail. Cheers!

Vodka Martini

October 30, 2021October 30, 2021Deliver Liquor Editor

Delicious and easy – the Vodka Martini

Ingredients: 3 fl ounces vodka, 1 fluid ounce dry vermouth, 1 cup of ice, and 3 olives

Instructions: Combine vodka and dry vermouth in a mixing glass or shaker. Fill with ice and stir until chilled (shake for Bond). Strain into a martini glass and garnish with 2 or 3 olives on a toothpick.

Don‘t forget to order your Vodka here!

The Vodka Gimlet

September 30, 2021September 30, 2021Deliver Liquor Editor

While the Vodka Gimlet is easy to make – you want to be sure it is served very cold, so you may consider placing your vodka of choice in the freezer for a bit prior to making your gimlet.

Ingredients: 2 ounces vodka (at least), 1/2 ounce simple syrup, 3/4 ounce lime juice, and a lime wheel to garnish

Instructions: Combine your (chilled) vodka, lime juice and simple syrup into a shaker with ice. Shake – then strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with the lime wheel.

Try it with Grey Goose Vodka – You can order it online HERE

Moscow Mule Recipe

September 19, 2021September 20, 2021Deliver Liquor Editor

Its a strange name… moscow mule… but its a beloved drink! Here is the recipe and instructions to make your own moscow mule. Don’t worry about a trip to the local liquor store… order your favorite brand of vodka for your mule right HERE!

Ingredients: Ice (of course), 1 ½ fluid ounces vodka, ½ fluid ounce lime juice, ½ cup ginger beer, 1 lime wedge for garnish

Instructions: Now, the Moscow Mule is typically served in a copper mug (if you have one!). Simply, pour your vodka and lime juice into a mug – then add some ice cubes and the ginger beer – then stir it up! Don’t forget to add a lime wedge into the mug for garnish.