October 4th marks National Vodka Day, a perfect occasion to explore the versatility of this beloved spirit. Whether you’re a fan of classic cocktails or love trying something new, these inventive recipes offer a delightful array of flavors to suit diverse preferences. Here are some standout vodka-based libation recipes by notable spots in South Florida to inspire your next mixology adventure.
Nico’s Tossed Greek Salad from Sweet Liberty
This cocktail brings the fresh flavors of a Greek salad to your glass.
Ingredients:
- 0.75 oz. Truman vodka
- 0.75 oz. Four Pillars olive leaf gin
- 0.5 oz. Lo-Fi dry vermouth
- 0.25 oz. Kleos Mastiha
- 0.25 oz. Velvet Falernum
- 1 oz. fresh cucumber juice
- 0.5 oz. lemon juice
- 0.5 oz. honey syrup
Directions:
Shake and strain over KD ice in a Collins glass. Garnish with a pinch of chopped dill, a skewered cucumber wheel, red olive, cracked pepper, and a spray of dill tincture.
Affogato Francisco from Vitolo
For coffee lovers, this cocktail-dessert hybrid is a must-try.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 0.75 oz Galiano Restretto (Coffee Liqueur)
- 1 shot of espresso
- 0.25 oz Demerara syrup
- Vanilla ice cream
Directions:
Shake all ingredients and pour into a carafe. Serve over vanilla ice cream in a martini glass. Enjoy it as a decadent dessert or elevate it as a spirited cocktail.
Chili Passion Martini from Jaya at The Setai
A fiery yet fruity blend, perfect for those who enjoy a kick.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz chili and lemongrass-infused ALB vodka
- 1 oz passion fruit rum
- 0.75 oz passion fruit purée
- 0.5 oz cranberry juice
- 0.25 oz ginger syrup
- Chili flakes
Directions:
Combine all ingredients with ice in a mixing glass. Shake well and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a Thai chili.
For Lychee’s Sake from CATCH
An exotic blend of flavors with a hint of floral sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Belvedere vodka
- 0.75 oz Nigori sake (Tozai Snow Maiden)
- 1.25 oz orange-blossom lychee purée
- 0.5 oz yuzu juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
Directions:
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a sake carafe. Garnish with a lychee on a pick and a pansy on top.
YES CHEF! from Red Rooster Overtown
A refreshing and zesty option with a touch of mint.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz E11EVEN vodka
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz honey
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- 2 oz ginger beer
- Muddled mint
Directions:
Muddle mint and add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. Strain into a mule tin over fresh ice and top with ginger beer. Garnish with a lemon wheel and mint sprig.
Mademoiselle from Queen Miami Beach
A sophisticated and silky cocktail with tropical undertones.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 1.5 oz lychee purée
- 0.5 oz coconut syrup
- 0.25 oz ginger syrup
- 0.25 oz lemon juice
Directions:
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with raspberry powder.
Be My Baby from Lafayette Steakhouse
A delicate and effervescent concoction for a celebratory toast.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Ketel One & Select infused with strawberry basil
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz vanilla syrup
- 2 oz prosecco
Directions:
Shake all ingredients and strain into a vintage flute glass. Top with prosecco and garnish with a dried strawberry.
These cocktails offer a unique spin on traditional vodka drinks, perfect for National Vodka Day or any gathering that calls for something special. Try them out and let your taste buds celebrate!