Citrus vodka is a type of vodka that is flavored with citrus fruits such as lemon, lime, orange, or grapefruit. The vodka is infused with the essence of the citrus fruit, resulting in a refreshing and tangy flavor that is often used in cocktails or enjoyed on its own as a sipping spirit. Citrus vodka can be made using either natural or artificial flavors, and it is typically clear or slightly yellow in color. It is a popular choice for making drinks such as martinis, cosmopolitans, and lemon drops, and it can also be mixed with soda water or juice for a refreshing and flavorful beverage.
What Can Citrus Vodka be Mixed With
Citrus vodka can be mixed with a variety of mixers and ingredients to create delicious drinks. Here are a few options:
- Tonic water
- Soda water
- Orange juice
- Cranberry juice
- Grapefruit juice
- Pineapple juice
- Lemonade
- Lime juice
- Triple sec
- Peach schnapps
- Simple syrup
- Agave nectar
- Fresh herbs like mint or basil
- Fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries
Citrus vodka also pairs well with other spirits such as gin, tequila, or rum, and can be used in place of regular vodka in many classic cocktails for a refreshing twist.
15 Citrus Vodka Cocktails Recipes
- Lemon Drop Martini: In a shaker filled with ice, combine 2 oz. citrus vodka, 1 oz. triple sec, and 1 oz. fresh lemon juice. Shake until chilled and strain into a chilled martini glass rimmed with sugar.
- Kamikaze: In a shaker filled with ice, combine 2 oz. citrus vodka, 1 oz. triple sec, and 1 oz. fresh lime juice. Shake until chilled and strain into a chilled shot glass.
- Cosmopolitan: In a shaker filled with ice, combine 1.5 oz. citrus vodka, 1 oz. triple sec, 0.5 oz. fresh lime juice, and 1 oz. cranberry juice. Shake until chilled and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a twist of orange.
- Screwdriver: In a glass filled with ice, combine 2 oz. citrus vodka and 4 oz. orange juice. Stir gently and garnish with a slice of orange.
- Sea Breeze: In a glass filled with ice, combine 2 oz. citrus vodka, 4 oz. grapefruit juice, and 1 oz. cranberry juice. Stir gently and garnish with a slice of lime.
- Blood Orange Vodka Sour: In a shaker filled with ice, combine 2 oz. citrus vodka, 1 oz. blood orange juice, 0.5 oz. simple syrup, and 1 oz. fresh lemon juice. Shake until chilled and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a slice of blood orange.
- Grapefruit and Rosemary Martini: In a shaker filled with ice, combine 2 oz. citrus vodka, 1 oz. fresh grapefruit juice, 0.5 oz. rosemary simple syrup, and a dash of grapefruit bitters. Shake until chilled and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary.
- Mandarin and Thyme Cocktail: In a shaker filled with ice, combine 2 oz. citrus vodka, 1 oz. fresh mandarin juice, 0.5 oz. thyme-infused honey syrup, and a dash of orange bitters. Shake until chilled and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a sprig of thyme and a slice of mandarin.
- Spiked Lemonade: In a glass filled with ice, combine 2 oz. citrus vodka, 4 oz. fresh lemonade, and a splash of soda water. Stir gently and garnish with a slice of lemon.
- Orange Creamsicle Martini: In a shaker filled with ice, combine 2 oz. citrus vodka, 1 oz. vanilla liqueur, 1 oz. fresh orange juice, and 1 oz. half-and-half. Shake until chilled and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a twist of orange.
- Citrus Gin Fizz: In a shaker filled with ice, combine 1 oz. citrus vodka, 1 oz. gin, 1 oz. fresh lemon juice, 0.5 oz. honey syrup, and 1 egg white. Shake vigorously until frothy and strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with soda water and garnish with a slice of lemon.
- Grapefruit Vodka Martini: In a shaker filled with ice, combine 2 oz. citrus vodka, 1 oz. grapefruit liqueur, and 1 oz. fresh grapefruit juice. Shake until chilled and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit.
- Spicy Citrus Margarita: In a shaker filled with ice, combine 2 oz. citrus vodka, 1 oz. fresh lime juice, 0.5 oz. jalapeno-infused agave syrup, and a dash of orange bitters. Shake until chilled and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a slice of lime and a jalapeno slice.
- Citrus Vodka Spritz: In a glass filled with ice, combine 2 oz. citrus vodka, 4 oz. sparkling wine, and 1 oz. fresh orange juice. Stir gently and garnish with a slice of orange.
- Lemon Basil Martini: In a shaker filled with ice, combine 2 oz. citrus vodka, 1 oz. fresh lemon juice, 0.5 oz. simple syrup, and 2 basil leaves. Shake until chilled and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a sprig of basil.
About Citrus Vodka
Origin: Citrus vodka is a type of flavored vodka that has citrus fruits as its main flavor. It’s a relatively new addition to the world of vodka, and its origin is unclear. However, it is believed to have originated in the United States in the 1970s when the flavored vodka trend started gaining popularity.
Ingredients: Citrus vodka is made from distilled grain alcohol, which is then flavored with citrus fruits like lemon, lime, orange, grapefruit, or a combination of these fruits. Some brands also add other ingredients like herbs, spices, or other fruit flavors to create a more complex taste.
Flavor and Proof: Citrus vodka has a bright, refreshing taste with a slightly sweet and tangy flavor profile. The citrus flavor is dominant, with a subtle hint of the underlying grain alcohol. The proof of citrus vodka ranges from 70 to 80 proof, which is 35% to 40% alcohol by volume (ABV).
Usage and Serving: Citrus vodka is a versatile spirit that can be used in a variety of cocktails, including classic and modern cocktails. It is often used in drinks that require a citrus flavor, such as a lemon drop martini, cosmopolitan, or screwdriver. It can also be enjoyed on the rocks or with a splash of soda or tonic water. Citrus vodka is typically served chilled or over ice.
Production and Manufacturer: Citrus vodka is produced through a process of distillation and flavoring. The grain alcohol is first distilled, then the citrus flavor is added through a variety of methods, including maceration or infusion. Some popular brands of citrus vodka include Absolut Citron, Smirnoff Citrus, Ketel One Citroen, Grey Goose Le Citron, Three Olives Citrus and Belvedere Citrus.
Variations: Citrus vodka comes in a variety of flavors and variations, depending on the brand and manufacturer. Some brands use a combination of citrus fruits to create a more complex flavor profile, while others add additional ingredients like herbs or spices. Other variations of citrus vodka include organic, gluten-free, or low-calorie options.