National Piña Colada Day: Celebrate with a Vodka Piña Colada!

Raise your (Hurricane) glass and toast to National Piña Colada Day!

In the U.S. and all around the world, every year on July 10, cocktail lovers raise a glass to National Piña Colada Day. And we get it. When it comes to creamy tropical drinks, there’s nothing quite like a Piña Colada. It’s one of the creamiest and most iconic tropical cocktails of all time.

To celebrate National Piña Colada Day this year, we’re going to give you two twists on Piña Colada, using vodka! “What?!”. Oh yes, we’re going to make two incredible Piña Coladas with vodka instead of light rum. But wait…as if that wasn’t enough, we’re going to use two flavored vodkas.

Trust us, if you like Piña Coladas, you’re gonna love these!

Spooky Colada

Even though it’s not Halloween, we’re including this drink because it’s so tasty, it’s scary. Yes, it’s a favorite here at Absolut.

The Spooky Colada mixes 1-part Absolut Lime, 1-part Malibu, 2-parts Coconut Cream, 1-parts Lime Juice, 2-parts Pineapple Juice, and a few dashes of Aromatic Bitters.

Add all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker, fill to the top with ice cubes and get shaking until your shaker is ice-cold.

Next, fill a Highball Glass with ice cubes. Not sure what cocktail glassware to use? Check out our article on the different types of cocktail glassware.

Finally, strain the cocktail through a strainer directly into your glass. If you don’t know which type of strainer to use, see our article on essential cocktail tools for mixologists.

Now it’s time to sip and enjoy!

Coconut Colada Grove

Next up it’s the Coconut Colada Grove. Are you ready for this? Just like a traditional Piña Colada, this cocktail features coconut cream and pineapple juice but instead of the light rum it uses Absolut Passionfruit. MIND-BLOWN!

But we’re not stopping there, we’re also adding some lime juice to the mix. Oh yeah! This Piña Colada variation boasts a wonderful zesty quality thanks to the lime juice and lovely tartness from the Passionfruit Vodka. It works so well with the luscious coconut cream and acidity from the pineapple juice.

The Coconut Colada Grove is another blended drink. So, grab your blender, and add 1 and half parts Absolut Passionfruit, 3 and quarter parts Pineapple Juice, 1 part Coconut Cream and quarter of a part Lime Juice.

Once blended, strain directly into a Hurricane Glass (c’mon, it’s a Piña Colada – you gotta use a Hurricane Glass!).

To finish, garnish with a twist of lime.

There it is! Two amazing vodka versions of a Piña Colada. Sip and enjoy!

Cheers to National Piña Colada Day!

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For more drink-spiration, head over to AbsolutDrinks.com!

It’s that time again – and, trust us, you’re not going to want to miss this episode of Absolut Drinks with Rico!

In this latest episode, Rico shows how to make three incredible cocktails that can be made with any Absolut Flavored Vodka.

Here, Rico makes three different drinks – a Mango Fresca, an Absolut Wild Berri & Lemon-Lime Soda and a batch of Absolut Sherbet Shots – using three different flavored vodkas. The best part is that they’re all universal drinks, meaning that you can swap one flavored vodka for another, and it’ll still going to be an AMAZING drink.

Mix things up, have fun and create your own favorite cocktail! Let’s take a quick look at the drinks, shall we?

Absolut Sherbet Shots

These vodka shots are served in popping candy-dipped shot glasses and taste like sherbet candies. In other words, the Absolut Sherbet Shots are a guaranteed hit for any big party.

Rico makes a batch of shots, which provides for 20 x 50 ml individual shots. These shots are made with equal parts, so they’re super easy to make and you can keep them chilled in your fridge until your guests arrive.

Rico uses Absolut Passionfruit, but you can use Flavored Vodka. Mango, Lime, Vanilia, Wild Berri, Pears – it’s up to you. They’re your shots!

Absolut Mango Fresca The Mango Fresca is a twist on an Agua Fresca made with Absolut Mango.

A traditional Agua Fresca is a non-alcoholic beverage, but here Rico makes a spirited Fresca. The Mango Fresca mixes our incredible Mango-Flavored Vodka together with Fresh Mango, Lime Juice, and Water.

“It tastes like ripe mango and it’s perfect for any BBQ, dinner party or anytime you’re doing batch drinks for a lot of friends,” says Rico.

Swap Absolut Mango for Absolut Watermelon and suddenly you’ve got a Watermelon Fresca. Or use Absolut Mandrin for a Mandarin-Flavored Fresca. Create your own Fresca!

Absolut Wild Berri & Lemon-Lime Soda

Talk about an easy-to-make cocktail. The Absolut Wild Berri and Lemon-Lime Soda is a cocktail with only two ingredients.

And just when it couldn’t get any easier, this drink is built entirely within the glass without the need for shaking or blending.

Lemon-Lime Soda works with every flavor, so even though Rico makes this drink using Absolut Wild Berri, you can make it with your favorite Absolut Flavored Vodka. A drink to suit every taste!

WATCH THE FULL EPISODE NOW!

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​Pride is celebrated around the world at various times throughout the year, showcasing the global spirit of LGBTQ+ unity. In the United States, Pride Month, also known as LGBTQ Pride Month, is observed every June. Meanwhile, other countries host their own pride celebrations, each adding its unique flair to the ongoing celebration of diversity and inclusion.

Here at Absolut, we believe Pride is something that should be celebrated every day. We’ve put together a list of five of the best Vodka cocktails to make at home whenever you choose to celebrate Pride!

These vodka cocktails cover every color of the rainbow, ensuring everyone’s tastes are celebrated. Cheers to that!

Screwdriver

With just two ingredients – Absolut Vodka and fresh-squeezed Orange Juice – the Screwdriver showcases how two elements, no matter how different from each other, can unite to form a perfect whole.

So simple yet so perfect, the Screwdriver is one of the most popular cocktails around the world. Discover the recipe for a Screwdriver cocktail.

Cosmopolitan

We asked Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, Absolut Global Brand Ambassador, what he thinks of the Cosmopolitan. “It’s a citrus phenomenon,” he says. And he’s not the only one who thinks that.

The Cosmo is one of the most beloved cocktails in the world, ranking #2 on the list of the most popular cocktails of last year. Known for its signature pink hue and tart citrus flavors, a classic Cosmopolitan mixes Absolut Citron (Lemon-Flavored Vodka), Triple Sec, Sweetened Cranberry Juice, and Fresh Lime Juice. Check out the recipe for a Cosmopolitan.

Blue Andy

Let the Blue Andy inspire you—it’s a cocktail that boldly stands out and embraces its uniqueness! Its vibrant electric blue color turns heads for all the right reasons.

Made with Absolut Vodka, Apple Juice, and Blue Curaçao, topped up with Lemonade and garnished with a Lime Wedge, the Blue Andy cocktail is a fabulous blend of fruity and citrusy flavors.

Discover how to make a Blue Andy cocktail.

Vodka Basil Smash

The Vodka Basil Smash combines Absolut Vodka with the tartness of Lemon Juice, a touch of Simple Syrup to sweeten things up, and welcome twist of muddled Basil Leaves for a uniquely delicious experience.

This drink proves that when you mix things up, you get a smashing success! Just like Pride, it’s all about celebrating the unexpected and finding joy in the blend.

Discover our Vodka Basil Smash recipe.

Pornstar Martini

The Pornstar Martini struts its stuff with style, flaunting a glamorous blend of Absolut Vanilia (Vanilla-Flavored Vodka), Vanilla Syrup, fresh Passion Fruit, and muddled Pineapple, all paired with a cheeky shot of Champagne or Prosecco on the side.

It’s bold, sweet, and bursting with unapologetic flair, just like the spirit of Pride.

Check out our Pornstar Martini recipe.

May 16 is National Mimosa Day in the United States. But wherever you are in the world, we say grab a Champagne Flute and toast to this classic cocktail! 

The Mimosa has been a brunch staple and a favorite at bridal showers, birthdays, and weddings for decades. It’s hard not to feel suave and sophisticated with a flute of this bubbly, orange-colored drink in hand.   

So, if you’re hosting an event and want to add some sparkle and glam, the Mimosa is your drink. 

What’s in a Mimosa? 

A classic Mimosa cocktail is made with just two ingredients – Champagne and Orange Juice. And what a combination it is! Zesty Orange Juice paired with bright, fruity Champagne, creating a crisp and lively drink with a hint of citrus sweetness.  

But here at Absolut, we’ve got a twist on the Mimosa you’re going to love and that will take your cocktail to the next level!  

More on that in a moment but first…  

What is the History of the Mimosa? 

We’re glad you asked! As the story goes, a bartender at a Paris hotel created this now-iconic drink back in 12925. However, it first appeared in print in a cocktail book in 1936.   

Its fame skyrocketed when London celebrities embraced it. In 1966, a London reporter spotted a renowned English film director sipping Mimosas and puffing a cigar at a hotel.  

This spread across American newspapers, and the director’s visit to New York further boosted the Mimosa’s popularity. By the 1960s, the Mimosa had become a favorite in the U.S., cementing its status as a brunch classic. 

A Mimosa with Vodka – the Absolut Mimosa! 

Here at Absolut, we love the Mimosa so much we decided to put on our twist on it. Ladies and gentlemen, we present to you the Absolut Mimosa!   

This Mimosa twist uses the same two ingredients as the original but adds the smoothness of Absolut Vodka to the mix! Ooooooh yes!  

That’s right, the Absolut Mimosa mixes 1½ parts Orange Juice, ¾ parts Absolut Vodka, then top up with your preferred Champagne or Sparkling Wine. Check out our recipe for the Absolut Mimosa. 

Tips for Making the Best Mimosa 

Whether you’re making a classic Mimosa cocktail or a Mimosa with Vodka, since there are so few ingredients, it’s all about the quality of your ingredients.  

Store-bought Orange Juice simply can’t compete with homemade Orange Juice. The same goes for your choice of Vodka, Champagne, or Sparkling Wine. If you’ve got a favorite, go with that. Hye, we might be a bit biased, but Absolut Vodka is our top pick and works incredibly well in a Mimosa.  

We’ll say it again – for the perfect Mimosa, fresh Orange Juice is essential. If you have a centrifugal juicer, it will aerate your juice, giving it a frothy, fluffy texture that’s without comparison.  

Don’t have a Centrifugal Juicer? No problem. Don’t miss our article on how to use a juicer to make cocktails.

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So, there you have it! Happy Mimosa Day! For more drink-spiration, head over to AbsolutDrinks.com!

May 13 marks World Cocktail Day—a worldwide celebration of cocktails! So, invite some friends over and raise a glass.

To help with your drink selections, we’ve curated a list of five must-try vodka cocktails for 2025, guaranteed to make your World Cocktail Day celebration the talk of the town!

Lemon Drop Martini

Made with our extremely popular Lemon-Flavored Vodka, Absolut Citron, the Lemon Drop Martini is a classic cocktail that captures the nostalgic flavor of Lemon Drop candy, hence the name.

It combines zesty Lemon Juice with the sweet orange notes of Triple Sec and the smoothness of Absolut Citron, all balanced out by a touch of Simple Syrup.

Served in a Martini Glass, the Lemon Drop Martini is one of those drinks that works at any party. So, if you want to impress your guests, look no further. Here’s how to make a Lemon Drop Martini.

Absolut Bird

You’ve heard of the Jungle Bird, but have you heard of the Absolut Bird?

The Absolut Bird is a version of the Tiki classic but is made with Absolut Vodka instead of Rum. We know, we know! A Tiki drink made with Vodka!

“It’s pretty banging,” says its creator, Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, Absolut Global Brand Ambassador.  We couldn’t agree more.

The Absolut Bird mixes Absolut Vodka, Pineapple Juice, Italian Aperitivo Liqueur, Lime Juice, and Demerara Syrup and it’s absolutely delicious. Here’s your new favorite summer drink! Discover our recipe for the Absolut Bird.

Espresso Martini

The most beloved of all cocktails, the Espresso Martini was named the most popular cocktail in 2024 and its popularity shows no signs of slowing down.

Absolut Vodka, Fresh Espresso, and Kahlúa coffee liqueur – three ingredients that transformed cocktail culture forever.

Sophisticated, bold, creamy and delicious, the Espresso Martini is pure class in a Martini Glass. Learn how to make the perfect Espresso Martini.

Clean Aviation

The Aviation, a classic Gin-based cocktail, is currently enjoying a resurgence. But for this version, we swap Gin for Absolut Vodka, which results in a cleaner drink.

The Clean Aviation is a wonderful mix citrusy and floral flavors, even without the Gin, the herbaceous notes come through from the Absinthe. A sophisticated and complex sipper that’s guaranteed to wow your guests, discover how to make an Aviation with Vodka.

Vodka Sour

The Vodka Sour is a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. One sip and it’s easy to see why. Like its counterparts, such as the Whiskey Sour, Pisco Sour, and Gin Sour, the Vodka Sour is the perfect mix of sweet and sour, combining Fresh Pressed Lemon Juice and Simple Syrup.

Like all sours, the Egg Whites provide the drink with its signature creamy head and delightful mouthfeel…but then there’s the smoothness of Absolut Vodka. Wow.

An out and out classic, here’s how to make a Vodka Sour.

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Looking for more drink-spiration? Head over to AbsolutDrinks.com

The Cosmopolitan is one of the most iconic and beloved modern cocktails in the world, so much so that it even has its own day – National Cosmopolitan Day, celebrated every year on May 7th.

“It’s a citrus phenomenon,” says Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador. And we couldn’t agree more.

A classic Cosmopolitan is made with Absolut Citron (Lemon-Flavored Vodka), Triple Sec, Sweetened Cranberry Juice, and Fresh Lime Juice, garnished with a strip of Orange Zest. But to celebrate National Cosmopolitan Day, we’ve shaken things up with five incredible twists on the classic Cosmo.   

Who knows, maybe you’ll find your new favorite drink!

1. White Cosmopolitan
The first Cosmo variation on our list follows the classic Cosmopolitan recipe but uses White Cranberry Juice instead of regular Cranberry Juice. White Cranberry Juice is milder and less tart, offering a smoother, slightly sweeter flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of Triple Sec.

As a result, the White Cosmopolitan has a much subtler tartness compared to the original and loses the signature pink hue. Controversial, we know! But it works wonderfully. Discover the recipe for a White Cosmopolitan. 

2. Absolut Lime Cosmopolitan
Prefer the taste of Lemon over Lime? Then this is the Cosmo twist for you! 

Simply swap Absolut Citron for Absolut Lime – our delicious Lime-Flavored Vodka – and suddenly the flavor of Lime steals the limelight!  

Discover how to make an Absolut Lime Cosmopolitan. 

3. Blood Orange Cosmo 

Shake things up while keeping it citrusy! The Blood Orange Cosmo swaps Absolut Citron for Absolut Mandrin, our delicious Mandarin-Flavored Vodka. But that’s not all – it also adds Blood Orange Juice, alongside the classic Cranberry Juice and Lime Juice. Talk about juicy!  

The fruity, sweet sun-ripened Mandarin and Tangerine flavors from Absolut Mandrin work so well in this Cosmo twist.
 Here’s how to make a Blood Orange Cosmo.
 

4. Virgin Cosmo
politan 

Looking for mocktail version for a Cosmopolitan? Well, you’re in luck. Introducing the Virgin Cosmopolitan.

To make it, mix sweetened Cranberry Juice, Lime Juice, Orange Juice, Simple Syrup, and Ice Cubes in a cocktail shaker. Shake well, then strain into a Martini Glass.

Add some Orange Bitters and Orange Zest to garnish, and you’ve got one refreshing and delicious mocktail. Check out our recipe for a Virgin Cosmopolitan.
 

5. Blue Cosmopolitan 


If its striking blue color doesn’t grab your attention, then its mix of citrus flavors will! 

The Blue Cosmopolitan mixes Absolut Citron, White Cranberry Juice, Blue Curacao, Lime Juice
 and Lemon Zest. 

Sweet and oh-so-citrusy, the Blue Cosmopolitan tastes as great as it looks. Check out our recipe for a Blue Cosmopolitan. 

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Why stop here? Absolut was born to mix! With our wide range of Vodka Flavors, the possibilities are endless. From Absolut Mango and Absolut Vanilia to Absolut Peppar and Absolut Watermelon, there’s a flavor for every palate. Experiment and discover unique and delicious Cosmo creations.

Cinco de Mayo is here! One of the biggest celebrations of Mexican culture is back again, and it’s time to get the party started!

Now, naturally, when people think of drinks for Cinco de Mayo, Tequila cocktails come to mind. But guess what? We’re here to tell you that Cinco de Mayo is more than just Tequila!

That’s right, we’re going to show you five of the best vodka cocktails to celebrate Cinco De Mayo. But not stopping there, we’re going highlight the versatility of Absolut Flavored Vodka. Be it Lime, Vanilla, Mango, Pepper or Grapefruit-Flavored Vodka, we’re going to show you why Absolut was born to mix.

Pair any of these drinks with chips and guacamole, and you’re all set for one serious fiesta. Salud!

1. Absolut Lime Vodkarita


If there’s one ingredient that truly captures the essence of Cinco de Mayo and Mexican culture, it’s Fresh Lime. And nothing showcases Lime better than the Absolut Lime Vodkarita.

This delicious and zesty cocktail mixes Absolut Lime-Flavored Vodka, Fresh Lime Juice, and Agave Nectar, and is then served in a Salt-Rimmed Rocks Glass and garnished with a Lime Wedge. Yep, the Absolut Lime Vodkarita turns Lime up to a nine.

Here’s how to make an Absolut Lime Vodkarita.

2. Spicy Mangotini


OK, let’s turn up the heat with The Spicy Mangotini. Mix Absolut Mango (Mango-Flavored Vodka), a dash or two of Absolut Peppar (our Black Pepper Flavored Vodka), sweet Mango Purée, Fresh Lemon Juice, and sweetened with Simple Syrup  for a delicious, balanced yet fiery delight.

But we’re not stopping there—garnish with a Jalapeno, and watch your Cinco De Mayo party really heat up!  Discover the recipe for a Spicy Mangotini.

3. Spicy Fifty


Let’s keep spicing it up! The Spicy Fifty is a delicious and unique mix of Absolut Vanilia (Vanilla-Flavored Vodka), Fresh Lime Juice, Honey, Elderflower Cordial
and, garnished with a Jalapeno.

Hey, we get it – the flavor combination of Vanilla, Elderflower and Lime Juice might seem odd but trust us, it’s absolutely incredible.

Serve in a chilled Martini Glass, and you’ve suddenly got yourself one elegant and spicy drink. Learn how to make a Spicy Fifty cocktail.

4. Absolut Lime Soda

We’re rounding out this Cinco de Mayo drink list with another cocktail that puts Lime back in the Limelight.

The Absolut Lime Soda features Absolut Lime, our zesty and oh-so-delicious Lime-Flavored Vodka, Fresh Lime Juice, Soda Water, and a Lime Wheel garnish.

It’s time to lime and shine! Check out our recipe for an Absolut Lime Soda.

5. The Swedish Paloma

Together with the Margarita, the Paloma is, of course, the most famous of all Mexican cocktails. Well, we’re shaking things up by swapping out the Tequila for

Grapefruit-Flavored Vodka to create a Vodka Paloma, which we call The Swedish Paloma.

The Swedish Paloma mixes Absolut Grapefruit, Fresh Ruby Red Grapefruit and Soda Water instead of the traditional Grapefruit Soda.

If you love Grapefruit, then you’re about to discover your new favorite drink. Here’s how to make The Swedish Paloma.

National Cosmopolitan Day is just around the corner, and what better way to prepare than to dive into the history of this beloved, timeless cocktail?

The Origins of the Cosmo

If it only it was that simple. Like many iconic cocktails, the exact origins of the Cosmopolitan (aka the Cosmo) are a mystery.

Some trace it back to the mid-1970s in Golden Valley, Minneapolis, while others say it was invented in South Beach, Florida during the mid-1980s.

While its exact origins are debated, we do know that the Cosmopolitan belongs to the Gimlet family of cocktails and shares similarities with the  Kamikaze shot in terms of ingredients and flavor. Argument could be made that it evolved from the classic Cape Codder cocktail from New England, which combines Vodka and Cranberry Juice.

The Evolution of the Cosmopolitan Recipe

The Cosmopolitan has undergone various transformations over the years.

A 1927 cocktail book mentions a drink named the Cosmopolitan, made with Scotch Whisky, two types of Vermouth, Swedish punch, Irish Whisky, and Vodka—completely different from the version we know today.

However, a 1934 cocktail book features a recipe for a Gin Daisy cocktail, which is strikingly similar to today’s Cosmopolitan. This version was made with lemon instead of lime, gin instead of vodka, and sweetened with Raspberry Syrup instead of Cranberry Juice to give the drink its signature pink color.

As for the version we all know and love today, one claim suggests it was invented around 1988 by a head bartender in South Beach, Miami, who based the cocktail on the newly released Absolut Citron. Absolut Citron, our incredible Lemon-Flavored Vodka, was released in 1988 and has been our best-selling flavored vodka ever since.

Another story traces the cocktail’s origins back to 1975, when a bartender in Golden Valley, Minneapolis, combined elements of a Cape Codder and a Kamikaze to create a shaken drink served in a martini glass.

The International Bartenders Association lists the Cosmopolitan as being made with Vodka Citron (Lemon-Flavored Vodka), Triple Sec, Fresh Lime Juice, and Cranberry Juice. The rest, as they say, is history.

The Rise of Absolut Citron, the Cosmo Craze and its enduring popularity

The Cosmo soared to prominence in the 1990s, becoming a symbol of cosmopolitan urban culture and modern cocktail sophistication.

Now, did Absolut Citron inspire the creation of the iconic Cosmopolitan, or did trend-setting influencers elevate it to fame by ordering the “Cosmo” at the hippest bars and clubs worldwide?

No matter the answer, there’s no doubt that the Cosmopolitan’s popularity soared thanks to a certain TV show that aired between 1998 and 2004, featuring four stylish women navigating life, love, and friendship in New York City.

Since the 1990s, the Cosmopolitan has maintained its status as a classic cocktail, enjoyed in various social settings. Its enduring popularity and association with high living have solidified its place in cocktail history as an iconic drink.

Join us in raising a glass and saying cheers to the Cosmopolitan!

If you enjoying making cocktails at home and wowing your guests with great drinks, then muddling is a handy technique that’s good to master.

Learning how to muddle will transform your cocktails from “Oh, that’s nice” to “Whooah! This is incredible!”

But to muddle, first, you’ll need a home bartending tool known as a muddler, which essentially works like a pestle. In fact, a muddler is one of the most essential home bartending tools. There are a couple of different types of muddlers – one that is made of wood and another that’s stainless steel with a rubber or hard plastic end. Either one will do the trick.

Why Do You Need to Muddle Ingredients?

Well, technically you don’t need to muddle your ingredients but think of it like this – muddling allows get the most flavor out of your fruits and herbs, making your cocktails more aromatic and delicious.

Fruits like Berries, Watermelon, Lemons, and Limes are all great fruits for muddling. Tip! Always pick the freshest, ripest ingredients you can find. Basically, the better the ingredients, the tastier your cocktail will be.

How Do you Muddle Cocktail Ingredients?

After washing your fruits, cut them into small pieces. Next, we suggest adding Simple Syrup to your cocktail shaker or glass, depending on whether it’s a shaken or stirred drink, and muddling the fruits together with the Simple Syrup. This will make the process of muddling much easier. Don’t miss our article on how to make Simple Syrup.

Now, using your muddler, gently twist and press down on your ingredients in a repeated motion without applying too much force to release the juices and aromas.

Now this technique works great for fruit but when muddling herbs, you’ve got be a little bit more careful. If you over-muddle herbs such as mint leaves, they can become bitter. And no-one wants that. So, muddle very gently.

What Cocktails Should You Muddle?

Rather than provide an exhaustive list of cocktails that you can muddle, consider using muddling whenever you want to enhance the flavors and aromas of fresh fruits or herbs. OK, but with that said, here are some of our favorite cocktails that require muddling.

One cocktail that really benefits from muddling is the Pornstar Martini, which is made with Absolut Vanilia, Passion Fruit Purée, Vanilla Syrup, and Fresh muddled Pineapple. Trust us, muddled Pineapple will really make a difference to this cocktail.

Muddling fresh fruits is especially handy when you’re making summer cocktails. And if you’re hosting a summer party or simply lying about in the sun, making a Watermelon Smash is a must. Simply muddle Watermelon Wedges with Simple Syrup in a cocktail shaker before adding lots of Crushed Ice, Absolut Vodka, and Fresh Lime Juice. Tip! Why not amp up the flavor of Watermelon by swapping Absolut Vodka for Absolut Watermelon? Oh yeah! Summer is here.

Fresh berries are delicious muddled and you’ll be you’ll be hard-pressed (or in this case, muddled!) to find a better berry cocktail than the Raspiroska. To make this cocktail, muddle fresh Whole Raspberries together with Simple Syrup directly in a Rocks Glass, then add Absolut Raspberri (Raspberry-Flavored Vodka) and Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice. Oh-so-good!

What Herbs Should You Muddle?

When it comes to muddling herbs for cocktails, mint is the first ingredients people think of. And of course, the first cocktail that comes to mind is the Mojito. But wait! Hold that muddler!

Despite popular opinion, Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador, advises against muddling the mint leaves for a Mojito. That’s right, you read it here first – don’t muddle the Mint Leaves in your Mojito! Why?

“As soon as you start to muddle Mint Leaves, you’re going to start getting bitterness from the chlorophyll – all the green that’s inside the leaves. All you need to do is give them a little slap and then get some Citrus Juice on them,” suggests Rico.

A great example of a cocktail that uses muddled herbs is the Vodka Basil Smash. To make this cocktail, muddle Basil Leaves with Fresh Lemon Juice in a Cocktail Shaker to draw out that fresh Basil taste, then add Simple Syrup, Absolut Vodka and Ice and shake.

Double strain the cocktail into a Rocks Glass filled with Ice and you’ve got a drink that your guests will be talking about for years. Got a question about double straining? Check out this article to learn how to double strain a cocktail.

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For endless cocktail inspiration, head over to AbsolutDrinks.com

Summer is just around the corner, which means it’s time to bring on the summer drinks. Oh yeah! And what drinks say summer better than smash drinks?

Smash drinks are a family of drinks but unlike other cocktail families, the exact definition of the Smash is a little, well, muddled. However, the main features of a Smash drink are a base spirit, muddled fresh fruit or herbs (but not always!), and a sweetener, shaken (but not always!) and served over crushed ice.

We’ve put together a list five incredible Smash drinks made with Vodka, including several made with our beloved Absolut Flavored Vodka products, guaranteed to be a hit all summer long.

1. Vodka Basil Smash


“The Vodka Basil Smash is super simple to make and kind of a twist on the Whiskey Smash, where they’ve literally replaced the Whiskey for Vodka and replaced Mint for Basil,” explains Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador.

The Basil Smash was originally made with Gin but somewhere along the way, Vodka was used instead of Gin and, well, the Vodka Basil Smash was born. And we gotta say, we’re glad about that!

Grab your muddler, and let’s get smashing! Not sure what a muddler is? Check out our article on the essential home bartending tools.

Here’s how to make a Vodka Basil Smith.

2. Watermelon Smash


Regardless of what the weather is doing, it’s always summer-time when you’re sipping a Watermelon Smash.

Muddle Fresh Watermelon with Simple Syrup in a cocktail shaker before adding Fresh Lemon Juice and Absolut Watermelon (Watermelon-Flavored Vodka). Garnish with a Watermelon Wedge and serve this to your friends and you’ll rightfully have earned yourself the title of king or queen of summer.

Get the recipe for the Watermelon Smash.

3. Caipiroska

An extremely popular cocktail in Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Argentina, the Caipiroska is a delicious summer sipper and similar to the Caipirinha but made with Vodka instead of Cachaça.

To make the Caipiroska, cut a Lime into four quarters, place them into a Rocks Glass, then grab your muddler and get smashing. Next add Simple Syrup, followed by Absolut Vodka and lastly top with Shaved Ice.

The next best thing to a summer in South America is sipping a Caipiroska wherever you are. Discover our Caipiroska recipe.

4. The Mandrin Crush

Here’s an example of a Smash drink where you don’t actually muddle any of the ingredients. Instead, to make the Mandrin Crush, throw everything into a Cocktail Shaker and smash everything about. Fun to make, delicious to drink!

It mixes Absolut Mandrin (Mandarin-Flavored Vodka), Fresh Lemon Juice, Passion Fruit Syrup, Simple Syrup
 and Ice. And how does it taste? “You’ve got the tropical vibes coming from the Passion Fruit, you got those sweet Orange vibes coming from the Absolut Mandrin, all balanced off with some Fresh Lemon Juice,” shares Rico.

Discover the recipe for the Mandrin Crush.

5. Raspiroska


When you’ve got friends coming over to enjoy the sun, the last thing you want to do is be stuck inside mixing drinks. The Raspiroska is a built drink (meaning it’s built directly in the glass), which is super simple to make and guaranteed to please.

It mixes Fresh Muddled Raspberries, Absolut Raspberri (Raspberry-Flavored Vodka), Simple Syrup, and Crushed Ice. Trust us, this a drink that’ll turn any day into a summer’s day. Get the recipe for a Raspiroska.