3.65 from 2153 votes

How to Make a Vodka Tonic

WRITTEN BY: SCOTT VAN DORT

The Vodka Tonic is one of the simplest cocktails to craft. It’s accessible to all home bartenders – regardless of experience – and doesn’t require any fancy equipment. The balance of crisp, clean flavors appeals to many, and preparation is a breeze. Classic vodka tonics are often served as an aperitif or even as a palate cleanser between courses when eating a meal.

Ingredients

ml Parts

Ice Cubes

Ice Cubes
45 ml Absolut Vodka

1 ½ Parts Absolut Vodka
150 ml Tonic Water

5 Parts Tonic Water
1 Wedge Lime

1 Wedge Lime

Number of Servings

Rate this recipe

3.65 from 2153 votes

How to Mix a Vodka Tonic

Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
Add vodka.
Top up the glass with tonic water to your desired taste.
Garnish with a wedge of fresh lime or lemon.

Watch Rico Show You How to Make a Vodka Tonic cocktail

What is a Vodka Tonic Cocktail?

A Vodka Tonic cocktail is a timeless classic – simple and straightforward. Just vodka and tonic water over ice, typically served with a wedge of fresh lime or lemon. It’s easy to make and it’s suited to a wide range of occasions – from dinner parties to aperitifs.

What Does a Vodka Tonic Taste Like?

Vodka Tonic cocktails have a clean flavor that is both dry and slightly bitter, making it a popular choice for those that prefer their cocktails not to be too sweet. The natural effervescence of the tonic water and the hint of citrus from the lime or lemon garnish brighten the taste.

The History of the Vodka Tonic Cocktail

The exact origins of the Vodka Tonic cocktail are unknown. However, it is likely that it developed in the 1950s as a variation on the well-established gin and tonic. It’s widely believed that this variation came about as bartenders worked to create new drinks using the increasingly popular vodka. Its neutral flavor works as a blank canvas for simple, clean cocktails and more complex creations alike.

Tips for Making the Best Vodka Tonic

While the vodka tonic is a simple cocktail, there are still ways to elevate the drink.

With vodka often used for up to 50% of the drink, it’s worthwhile using a quality spirit like Absolut Vodka.
Similarly, it pays to go out of your way and find a premium tonic water that stands up to the vodka.
Make sure to use fresh fruit like lemon or lime – the natural oils in the peel will help to accentuate the drink.

Vodka Tonic Ratios: Finding Your Perfect Balance

The typical ratios for a Vodka Tonic are 1:2 or 1:3 – one part vodka to two or three parts tonic water. In these proportions the refreshing taste of tonic is balanced by the crisp vodka base. However, these quantities can be changed according to your preferences. Some may prefer a lighter version with a more tonic, while others might go for more of an even blend of the two main ingredients.

Variations of a Vodka Tonic Drink

The Vodka Tonic is a highly versatile cocktail. Its simple, clean flavor makes it incredibly adaptable – adding just one additional ingredient or including a flavored vodka can take the taste in a whole new direction.

Raspberry Vodka Tonic

Sweeten the deal with a Raspberry Vodka Tonic, adding a summery twist to this classic concoction. Switch out standard vodka for Absolut Raspberri and add three fresh raspberries alongside a lime wedge as a garnish.

Lime Vodka Tonic

The hint of zesty citrus is what many people love about a Vodka Tonic. Dial up the citrus further by using Absolut Lime to create a Lime Vodka Tonic. Add a splash of lime cordial and garnish with two lime wheels that won’t disappoint even the boldest lime lover.

Absolut Watermelon and Tonic

Cool and crisp with a refreshing taste, a Watermelon Vodka Tonic is slightly sweeter and juicier than its classic counterpart. Use one part Absolut Watermelon to two parts tonic water and add a wedge of watermelon to the lime garnish.

Grapefruit Vodka Tonic

The tart and sweet grapefruit adds a unique twist to this timeless classic. To make a Grapefruit Vodka Tonic, opt for Absolut Grapefruit and add tonic in a 1:3 ratio. Finish off by garnishing with a wedge of grapefruit.

Vodka Tonic Nutrition Facts

The exact nutritional values of a Vodka Tonic cocktail depend on the type of vodka and tonic used, so these are approximations – variations will also occur depending on the ratio of vodka to tonic used in any recipe. There are around 18.7g of carbohydrates in a 1:1 ratio mixture starting with a standard single shot of vodka. These cocktails contain no protein or fats.

Calories in a Vodka Tonic

There are approximately 166 calories in a standard vodka tonic cocktail. Most of these come from carbohydrates (sugar) in the tonic water. Vodka and the lime wedge contribute minimal sugars and calories.

Vodka Tonic FAQs

What’s the Difference Between a Vodka Tonic and a Vodka Soda?

Both are long, carbonated cocktail drinks. A vodka tonic is made from vodka mixed with tonic water, while a vodka soda uses – you guessed it – soda water instead of tonic. A vodka tonic has a drier, slightly bitterer taste compared to a vodka soda.

What Kind of Tonic Water Can I Use to Make a Vodka Tonic?

The traditional vodka tonic is made using classic tonic with its unmistakable bittersweet edge. However, you could also experiment with different varieties of tonic water to give the cocktail a new twist. Indian tonic has even more of that bitter quinine flavor, while mediterranean tonic is often slightly sweeter and has more of a delicate citrus note.

How Do You Garnish a Vodka Tonic?

A popular garnish is a wedge of lemon, lime or other citrus fruit. You could also go with just the peel and create a delicate twist to slip into the glass. Herbs are always a good way to add an elegant finishing touch to any cocktail drink, like a sprig of thyme or rosemary. Don’t be afraid to add an aromatic spice garnish, like peppercorns or cardamom pods to accentuate the exotic notes in the tonic.