As a bartender, I know that sour drinks are a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts. The sour flavor can come from a variety of sources, such as citrus fruits, vinegar, or even sour candies.
When it comes to vodka cocktails, the sour element can add a refreshing and tangy twist to the classic spirit.
But what makes a good sour vodka cocktail? It's all about balance. The sour component should be complemented by sweet and bitter flavors, as well as the subtle taste of the vodka itself.
A good sour vodka cocktail should also have a smooth and silky texture, making it easy to sip and enjoy.
There are countless sour vodka cocktail recipes out there, each with their own unique combination of ingredients and flavors. Some are classic and timeless, while others are more experimental and modern.
In this blog post, I'll be exploring some of the best sour vodka cocktail recipes that are sure to impress your guests and elevate your bartending skills. From the classic Lemon Drop to the trendy Sour Patch Martini, these cocktails are sure to satisfy any sour craving. So grab your shaker and let's get mixing!
1. Vodka Sour
The Vodka Sour is a classic cocktail that is perfect for those who love a simple yet delicious drink. Made with vodka, lemon or lime juice, and a sweetener, this cocktail is easy to make and even easier to drink. The clean, neutral flavor of the vodka makes it a versatile base for a variety of variations, from adding flavored syrups to liqueurs.
One of the most popular variations is the Cherry Vodka Sour, which adds grenadine to the mix. If you're a fan of sour cocktails, the Vodka Sour is definitely worth trying. Its short ingredient list and refreshing taste make it a go-to drink for any occasion.
2. Cherry Vodka Sour Cocktail
The Cherry Vodka Sour Cocktail is a delightful and refreshing drink that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail is a beautiful blend of cherry flavor, sour mix, and bubbly soda that creates a tantalizing taste. The drink is lightly sweet and tangy, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more delicate flavor.
The cocktail is easy to make and can be customized to your liking by adding flavored vodka or grenadine for a more sweet and cherry taste. The garnish of maraschino cherries and lime wedges adds a pop of color and flavor to the drink. Overall, the Cherry Vodka Sour Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who enjoys a flirty and fun cocktail.
3. Cherry Vodka Sour
The Cherry Vodka Sour is a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and sour. Made with vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and grenadine, this cocktail is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. For a unique texture, you can add an egg white or a vegan substitute.
Additionally, adding Sprite to the mix gives it a citrusy, carbonated kick. Garnished with a lemon wheel and maraschino cherries, this cocktail is perfect for any occasion. If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail, the Cherry Vodka Sour is definitely worth a try.
4. New England Vodka Sour
The New England Vodka Sour is a unique and refreshing cocktail that offers a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. Made with real maple syrup, fresh grapefruit juice, and a dash of bitters, this cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a tangy and earthy taste.
The use of vodka instead of whiskey gives it a lighter and smoother finish, making it a great option for those who prefer a less intense drink. Overall, the New England Vodka Sour is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a delicious and easy-to-make sour vodka cocktail.
5. Winter Rosemary Vodka Sour
The Winter Rosemary Vodka Sour is a refreshing twist on the classic sour cocktail. This warming drink combines the bite of vodka with the savory notes of rosemary and the warming spices of Drambuie liqueur. The cocktail is made using Northern Keep Vodka, a Canadian Rye-based vodka that lends well to the characteristics of the drink.
The addition of egg whites or aquafaba creates a foam top that adds texture and depth to the cocktail. The Winter Rosemary Vodka Sour is perfect for those who want to experiment more with vodka and enjoy a warming, shaken rendition.
6. Spiced Hibiscus Vodka Sour Cocktail
The Spiced Hibiscus Vodka Sour Cocktail is a unique and festive twist on a classic vodka sour cocktail. Infused with spiced hibiscus tea, this cocktail offers a sweet and tart taste with a floral aroma. The addition of egg white or aquafaba gives it a creamy texture and a lovely cap of foam.
This cocktail is perfect for holiday gatherings or a special date night in. If you're looking for a naturally sweetened, refreshing and impressive cocktail, the Spiced Hibiscus Vodka Sour Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
7. Pear Vodka Sour
The Pear Vodka Sour is a creamy and dreamy cocktail that is perfect for those who love egg white cocktails. The infusion of fresh lemon and elderflower with the pear vodka gives it a unique and refreshing taste. The cocktail is easy to make at home and is perfect for impressing guests at a party or enjoying a night in.
The subtle sweetness of the pear vodka is balanced by the tartness of the lemon and the creaminess of the egg white, making it a well-rounded and satisfying drink. If you're looking for a new sour vodka cocktail to try, the Pear Vodka Sour is definitely worth a shot.
8. Vodka Spritzer
The Vodka Spritzer is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. With just three simple ingredients, this drink is a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests wanting more.
It's a bright and refreshing cocktail that's not too boozy, making it perfect for afternoon sipping by the pool or as the signature cocktail at your next party. This cocktail is a must-have on your list of easy and fruity cocktail recipes. So, if you're looking for a simple yet delicious cocktail that's sure to impress, try the Vodka Spritzer.
9. Cherrylicous Cherry Sour Cocktail
The Cherrylicious Cherry Sour Cocktail is a gin-based drink with a perfect blend of sour and sweet flavors, featuring the delicious taste of cherries.
It is a unique cocktail that uses egg white to create a frothy texture on top of the drink. This refreshing and delicious cocktail is perfect for any occasion and is a must-try for sour cocktail lovers.
10. Lime Martini
Looking for a sweet and sour cocktail that will tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than the Lime Martini! This delicious cocktail is made with vanilla vodka, citrus vodka, and lime syrup, creating a refreshing and zesty flavor that is perfect for any occasion.
And with its pale green color, it's the perfect drink to celebrate St. Patrick's Day or any other festive occasion. For an extra pop of color, you can even add a few drops of green food coloring or create a green sugar rim for your glass. So if you're looking for a cocktail that is both sweet and sour, look no further than the Lime Martini!
11. Lemon Elderflower Sour With Vodka
The Lemon Elderflower Sour with Vodka is a delightful cocktail that is perfect for those who love sweet citrus and floral flavors. This cocktail is incredibly easy to make and requires only five ingredients. The combination of vodka, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white creates a refreshing and delicious drink that will leave you wanting more.
The subtle floral sweetness of elderflower is perfectly balanced with the tartness of lemon juice, making this cocktail a perfect choice for any occasion. The addition of egg white creates a fluffy foam on top, giving the cocktail a luxurious texture. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves sour cocktails or is looking for a new and exciting drink to try.
12. Vodka Mojito
The Vodka Mojito is a refreshing twist on the classic mojito cocktail, perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. Made with fresh mint, lime, and vodka, this cocktail is easy to make and ready in just minutes. The use of vodka instead of rum gives it a unique flavor that stands out from other mojito variations.
The addition of club soda keeps the drink crisp and refreshing, and you can adjust the sweetness to your liking with sugar or simple syrup. Overall, the Vodka Mojito is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a delicious and easy-to-make sour vodka cocktail.
13. Blood Orange Vodka Sour
The Blood Orange Vodka Sour is a delightful cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. This sour cocktail is made with blood orange juice, vodka, egg whites, and simple syrup.
The egg whites give the cocktail a smooth and creamy texture, while the blood orange juice adds a tangy and refreshing flavor.
This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a light and citrusy drink. It's a great option for a date night or a Sunday brunch with friends.
The vibrant color of the blood orange makes this cocktail a beautiful addition to any gathering.
If you're looking for a simple yet delicious cocktail, the Blood Orange Vodka Sour is definitely worth trying.
It's a crowd-pleaser that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
14. Vodka Gimlet
The Vodka Gimlet is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Made with quality vodka, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup, this cocktail is the perfect combination of sour and sweet.
With a solid 2 1/2 ounces of vodka, this drink is strong and perfect for those who love a good vodka cocktail. While it can also be made with gin, the smoothness of the vodka really shines through in this drink. If you're a fan of sour vodka cocktails, the Vodka Gimlet is a must-try.
15. Lemon Drop Martini
The Lemon Drop Martini is a classic vodka cocktail that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and sour. It's a bright and refreshing drink that's easy to make with just four ingredients. The sugared rim and lemon twist add an extra touch of elegance that makes it perfect for any occasion.
This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a good sour vodka cocktail. So, if you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make drink that's sure to impress your guests, give the Lemon Drop Martini a try.
16. Seabreeze Cocktail
The Seabreeze Cocktail is a refreshing and tropical drink that is perfect for a hot summer day. This classic cocktail combines the sweetness of cranberry juice with the sourness of grapefruit juice, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The addition of vodka adds a strong kick to the drink, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a stronger cocktail.
The Seabreeze Cocktail has a rich history, with its recipe changing over the years to incorporate different ingredients. This easy-to-make cocktail requires only three basic ingredients and can be garnished with cranberries or grapefruit for an added touch of elegance. If you're looking for a delicious and refreshing sour vodka cocktail, the Seabreeze Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
17. Grapefruit & Pomegranate Vodka Sour
The Grapefruit & Pomegranate Vodka Sour is a delightful cocktail that is perfect for those who enjoy a refreshing and fruity drink. The combination of grapefruit, pomegranate, and honey creates a unique blend of sweet and sour flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
This cocktail is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients, making it a great choice for those who are short on time. If you're a gin lover, you can also substitute the vodka with a nice juniper-forward London Dry or a fruity grapefruit gin. Overall, the Grapefruit & Pomegranate Vodka Sour is a must-try cocktail that is perfect for any occasion.
18. The Vodka Soda
The Vodka Soda is a classic highball cocktail made with vodka, lime juice, and soda water. It's a refreshing and low-calorie drink that's perfect for summer, but can be enjoyed anytime. With only 131 calories per serving, it's a healthier option compared to other cocktails.
Its simplicity is what makes it a classic, but it can be easily dressed up with garnishes for entertaining. If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-drink cocktail, give the Vodka Soda a try.
19. Lemon Vodka Cocktail
The Lemon Vodka Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for a warm summer day. The cocktail is composed of lemon juice, vodka, and simple syrup, with a splash of soda water to add some sparkle.
The drink is light and tangy, with a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. While fresh lemon juice is recommended for optimum flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. The Lemon Vodka Cocktail is a must-try for those who enjoy a sour vodka cocktail with a twist.
20. Basil Vodka Gimlet
The Basil Vodka Gimlet is a unique and refreshing twist on the classic Gimlet cocktail. Made with basil-infused vodka, fresh lime juice, and a touch of simple syrup, this cocktail is perfect for summertime sipping.
The combination of the bright and fresh flavors of basil and lime make for a truly delicious and satisfying drink. Garnished with fresh basil, this cocktail is not only pleasing to the taste buds but also to the eyes. If you're looking for a new and exciting vodka cocktail to try, the Basil Vodka Gimlet is definitely worth a shot.
21. Orange Campari Vodka Sour Cocktail
The Orange Campari Vodka Sour Cocktail is a refreshing and citrusy twist on the classic vodka sour cocktail. This recipe combines the bittersweet notes of Campari with the bright and sweet flavors of fresh orange juice, creating a perfectly balanced and well-rounded drink.
The addition of egg white gives the cocktail a rich and creamy texture, while the dry shake method ensures a frothy and delightful foam. This cocktail is perfect for warm weather and would be a great addition to any happy hour or date night in. If you're a fan of egg white cocktails or looking for a new and exciting vodka sour recipe, this Orange Campari Vodka Sour Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
22. Lavender Vodka Cocktail
The Lavender Vodka Cocktail is a unique and refreshing twist on the classic Collins cocktail. Made with a simple lavender and lemon-infused vodka, this cocktail boasts a subtle floral flavor with a citrus undertone.
The lavender infusion not only adds a delicious flavor but also has the added benefit of aiding in relaxation and reducing stress. This cocktail is perfect for those looking for a refreshing and calming drink after a long day. If you're looking for a unique and delicious cocktail, the Lavender Vodka Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
23. Winter Sea Breeze
The Winter Sea Breeze is a refreshing and fruity vodka cocktail that is perfect for any season. Made with white cranberry juice, grapefruit juice, and vodka, this cocktail strikes a perfect balance between sweet and sour flavors.
The addition of Grapefruit Mint bitters and a garnish of pink grapefruit and mint give this drink a unique and tropical twist. Whether you're a fan of vodka cocktails or just looking for a delicious and easy-to-make drink, the Winter Sea Breeze is definitely worth trying. So why not mix one up and enjoy the refreshing taste of this classic cocktail?
24. Dreamy Sage Limoncello Martini
The Dreamy Sage Limoncello Martini is a perfect balance of vodka, limoncello, and lemon juice with a hint of sage. This cocktail is a lemon lover's dream and is sure to satisfy anyone who enjoys a good mixed drink.
The sage leaves floating on top of the martini add a beautiful touch and enhance the flavor as they soak in the drink. This cocktail is perfect for a dinner party or a night in with friends. It's refreshing, flavorful, and definitely worth a try for anyone who loves a good sour vodka cocktail.
25. Huckleberry Cosmopolitan
The Huckleberry Cosmopolitan is a must-try cocktail for anyone who loves a sweet and fruity drink with a little bit of tartness. This unique cocktail combines the taste of huckleberry with vodka to create a delicious twist on the traditional cosmo. The key ingredient, huckleberry vodka, may be hard to find, but it's worth the effort to track down.
This cocktail is perfect for a night in or to serve at a party. If you're a fan of Sex and the City, this drink is a great choice for a binge-watching session. Overall, the Huckleberry Cosmopolitan is a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that is sure to impress.
26. Passion Fruit Martini
The Passion Fruit Martini is a sweet and sour summer cocktail made with passion fruit liqueur, vanilla vodka, passion fruit puree, and sweet 'n sour cocktail mix.
It has a strong passion fruit flavour and a creamy texture from the vanilla vodka. The honey and sugar rim adds a touch of sweetness, and the tangerine slices make for a beautiful garnish. It's a must-try for anyone who loves fruity cocktails.
27. Elderflower Cocktail With Lemon
The Elderflower Cocktail with Lemon is a must-try for anyone who loves a refreshing and perfectly balanced drink. This cocktail combines the irresistible sweet floral flavor of St Germain, an elderflower liqueur, with vodka, lemon, and tonic water. The result is a beautiful blend of botanical, sweet tart, bright, and bubbly flavors that are dangerously sippable.
The clear ice used in the presentation adds a classy touch to the drink, making it perfect for any occasion. If you're a fan of elderflower, this cocktail is a must-have in your liquor cabinet. Don't miss out on this refreshing and crowd-pleasing cocktail!
28. Green Apple Martini
The Green Apple Martini is a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors, bursting with the taste of green apples. It's a classic cocktail that's perfect for any occasion, but especially great for Halloween or St. Patrick's Day. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves fruity martinis. The recipe is super easy to follow and can be customized to your taste.
Whether you prefer a more sour taste or a sweeter one, this cocktail can be adjusted to your liking. With a beautiful green color and a garnish of green apple, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests. So, if you're looking for a fun and delicious cocktail to serve at your next party, give the Green Apple Martini a try!
29. The Perfect Cosmopolitan
"The Perfect Cosmopolitan" is a sweet and sour cocktail that is perfect for impressing your friends or treating yourself to a delicious drink. Made with high-quality, fresh ingredients such as vodka, Cointreau, cranberry juice, and lime juice, this martini is a classic that never goes out of style.
The combination of flavors creates a taste that is almost reminiscent of grapefruit, making it a unique and refreshing option. Whether you're looking for a strong vodka drink or just want to indulge in something sweet, "The Perfect Cosmopolitan" is sure to satisfy your cravings. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why it's considered one of the best sour vodka cocktails out there?
30. Appletini
The Appletini is a delicious and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. It is a sour vodka cocktail that is filled with all of the sour apple flavor you expect without any artificial color.
This cocktail is packed with apple flavor and only uses 5 ingredients, making it easy to make and perfect for impressing your friends at your next happy hour. The Appletini is the perfect signature cocktail for fall, but it is equally tasty any time of year. If you are a fan of sour vodka cocktails, then the Appletini is definitely worth trying.
31. Cosmopolitan
Cosmopolitan is a classic cocktail that has been popular for decades. It's a refreshing and light drink that combines the flavors of sweet and tart, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy sour vodka cocktails. The drink is a simple combination of vodka, orange liqueur, lime juice, and cranberry juice, which creates a perfect balance of flavors.
The cocktail gained popularity after its appearance on the popular TV show Sex and the City, where it was the favorite drink of the main character, Carrie Bradshaw. The drink has a rich history, and its roots can be traced back to San Francisco and Manhattan. The Cosmopolitan is a must-try for anyone who enjoys a good sour vodka cocktail.
32. Orange Blossom Cocktail
The Orange Blossom Cocktail is a unique twist on a classic sour vodka cocktail. Made with Seville oranges, this cocktail has a slightly sour flavor with a lower acidity than that of a lemon, making it perfect for food and cocktails.
The combination of Cointreau and Seville orange juice creates a lovely balance of sweetness and tartness, bursting with orange essence. The bright orange color of the cocktail is sure to brighten up any dreary winter day. If you love oranges and their beautiful floral aroma, this cocktail is a must-try. Stay tuned for more delicious sour vodka cocktail recipes.
33. Prickly Pear Vodka Sour
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique twist on a classic vodka sour, the Prickly Pear Vodka Sour is a must-try. This five-minute cocktail combines fresh lemon and lime juice with pink prickly pear syrup and vodka for a sweet and tangy flavor that's perfect for any occasion. The cocktail's bright pink color is eye-catching and adds a fun touch to any gathering.
Plus, the use of prickly pear syrup adds a unique and unexpected flavor that's sure to impress your guests. Whether you're planning a bachelorette party or just want to try something new, the Prickly Pear Vodka Sour is a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that's sure to be a hit.
