44 Vodka Cocktail Recipes

Vodka's reputation for being flavourless is unfair, and rather beside the point. Distilled to a high proof and filtered clean, it contributes texture and weight rather than aroma, which is exactly what you want when the fruit, coffee or tomato in the glass is meant to do the talking. A good vodka drink is a study in what you leave out. That neutrality makes it the easiest base to build on. Vodka carries fresh juice without arguing with it, which is why the Screwdriver, Sex on the Beach and the whole family of brunch drinks live here. It also takes infusions readily: chilli, vanilla, citrus peel and horseradish all give up their flavour after a day or two on the counter. Two practical notes. Serve vodka drinks properly cold, because anything lukewarm exposes the alcohol with nothing to hide behind. And measure carefully, since there is no botanical bill to cover a heavy pour.