how to make a Vodka Soda

BY: MICHAEL BERGSTRÖM

Looking for the ultimate easy cocktail? Let’s dive into the world of the Vodka Soda. This simple yet satisfying drink is a classic for a reason. A Vodka Soda is a highball cocktail made with vodka and carbonated water, served over ice. It’s known for its clean, crisp taste and uncomplicated flavours. 

The appeal of the vodka soda lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s the perfect blank canvas for adding a splash of your favourite fruit juice or a squeeze of citrus. Whether you’re lounging with friends or having a more elaborate gathering, the vodka soda can be a good choice for a range of occasions. 

Ready to learn how to make this iconic drink? Discover our foolproof vodka soda recipe and get ready to enjoy the refreshing taste of this classic vodka soda cocktail. It’s easier to make than you think! 

How to Mix a Vodka Soda

1. Fill your pre-chilled highball glass with ice. 
2. Add your desired amount of Absolut Vodka. 
3. Top up with chilled soda water to taste. 
4. Squeeze one or two wedges of lime over the top and drop them in. 
5. Enjoy! 

What is a Vodka Soda?

Just as the name suggests, a Vodka Soda cocktail is made with just that – Vodka and Soda Water. It’s a popular highball drink that combines a base spirit with a single mixer. For many, it’s also a blank canvas to try other flavors with. For example, to elevate the flavor of a Vodka Soda drink, you can add a splash of fresh lime juice. 

What Does a Vodka Soda Taste Like?

The taste of a Vodka Soda is clean, crisp, and has an incredibly refreshing taste. The vodka provides a neutral base, allowing the bubbly soda water to take center stage with its light effervescence. It’s a subtly flavored drink, making it a perfect palate cleanser. The absence of sweet mixers makes it a dry option, allowing any added flavors, like a squeeze of lime, to really shine through. 

Variations of a Vodka Soda

The beauty of the Vodka Soda lies is in its simplicity. Not only does that give you a crisp, clean taste – it also forms the perfect base for variations. 

Lemon Vodka Soda

By using Absolut Citron and fresh lemon, you can elevate the simple Vodka Soda recipe with a summery twist and create your own Lemon Vodka Soda. Garnish with a twist of lemon zest. 

Grapefruit Vodka Soda

Elevate your vodka soda game with grapefruit. This simple variation adds a tangy and refreshing twist. Get the recipe and enjoy! Why not add a grapefruit wheel to finish.

Pepper Vodka Soda

Turn up the heat with a Pepper Vodka Soda recipe – a unique twist perfect for adventurous palates. For the real hot-heads, garnish with a pickled chili. 

Pear Vodka Soda

Subtly sweet and with an extra layer of fruity complexity, the Pear Vodka Soda recipe is an elegant twist on a classic. 

Mango Vodka Soda

Liven up your cocktail game with a tropical twist with this vibrant yet simple Mango Vodka Soda variation. A slice of mango peel can really finish the presentation here. 

Vanilla Vodka Soda

Charmingly smooth and sweet, a Vanilla Vodka Soda combines the lively kick of the vodka with the sensuous sweetness of vanilla.  

Serving and Garnish Ideas for a Vodka Soda

The simple nature of the Vodka Soda cocktail leaves plenty of room for your own interpretations. From unique serving suggestions to creative garnishes, place your own spin on a classic. 

• Get creative! Adding a sprig of a kitchen herb like basil, mint or rosemary is a great way to elevate your vodka soda and bring out both the aroma and elegance of this classic.
• The key to a perfect Vodka Soda drink is chill, so make sure to keep the glass, soda water and vodka as cold as possible before pouring. This makes the carbonation last longer – a warm mixer will melt the ice faster and over dilute your drink. No one likes a lukewarm glass of flat vodka water!
• A touch of fruit – like a twist of zest or a whole fruit wheel – can add an extra dimension to the clean flavours of a vodka soda.