Vodka Cranberry

What does a vodka cranberry taste like?

Cranberry juice with vodka (aka a Cape Codder) is easy to sip and a popular choice for novice drinkers. So, it’s no wonder this tasty pink drink has a bit of a reputation for being a college drink. And it makes sense. The taste of the cranberry juice is sweet and tart, and the lime adds a lovely zesty twist, making it very drinkable and perfect for beginners.   

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Is a vodka cranberry best when shaken?

When figuring out how to make a good vodka cranberry, you might be tempted to shake it instead of building it in the glass. But what’s the difference in taste? And why are drinks shaken, stirred, or made in a glass? Here are a few top tips:  

If the drink contains citrus, cream, or eggs, you can shake it in a cocktail shaker. That way, you’re mixing, chilling, and aerating the ingredients, resulting in a lighter frothy drink. Our recipe for the perfect vodka cranberry has added lime juice and optional orange juice. So, if you’re feeling a little fancy, shake this drink before straining it into a chilled cocktail glass. 

Stirring a drink is best suited to liquor-only cocktails, like the Negroni, Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Martini. Stirring a cocktail chills the ingredients without watering it down or diluting the alcohol too much.  

Lastly, you can choose to build the drink straight in the glass like we’ve done with our recipe for a casual evening with friends.   

You might also like: How to Use a Cocktail Shaker. 

When and how to serve a vodka cranberry

The Cape Codder is all about being fuss-free and uncomplicated. It’s a great drink for those last-minute events and casual gatherings. Serve these refreshing cocktails during: 

• Brunch or lunch 
• Happy hour 
• Garden parties 
• Poolside parties 
• Girls’ night in 
• Weekends 
• Christmas 

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