5 Cozy and Easy-to-Make Cocktails for Winter  

As the seasons change, naturally so do our drink preferences. And with winter here, it means cozying up with the warming flavors and enticing aromas of vanilla, coffee, pear, and ginger. Mmm, mmm!

Here, we’ve lined up 5 delicious easy-to-make vodka cocktails that are perfect for any winter gathering. So, go on – invite over some friends and let the only cold and shaking this winter be that of your cocktail shaker!

1. Vanilla Espresso Martini
Let’s set the mood: it’s cold outside, but you’re warm inside, hosting friends dressed in their winter bests, holding Espresso Martinis infused with the rich taste of vanilla.

Ah! The Vanilla Espresso Martini. It follows the same recipe for a classic Espresso Martini but adds a cozy twist by using Absolut Vanilia – our beloved vanilla-flavored vodka. Garnished with a vanilla pod and a couple of roasted coffee beans, could there be a more perfect winter cocktail?

Watch Rico show how to make a Vanilla Espresso Martini!

2. Bloody Mary

The Bloody Mary has been a brunch favorite for decades, but its spiciness and rich tomato flavor also make it an ideal winter warmer. There’s something about that savory heat that just hits right when the temperatures drop.

What’s in a Bloody Mary you ask?

• Absolut Vodka
• Tomato juice
• Hot sauce
• Worcestershire sauce
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Black pepper

Savory, spicy, and downright delicious – the Bloody Mary is a cocktail guaranteed to bring the heat to any winter chill!

Check out the recipe for an Absolut Bloody Mary.

Rico shows how to make the world’s best Bloody Mary!

3. Guilt-Tea Pleasure

Meet the Guilt-Tea Pleasure – the ultimate tea cocktail you’ve never heard of …until now! Although its floral and citrusy flavors lend itself perfectly to springtime, there’s no denying the coziness of sipping tea in winter.

Created by our own Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador, the Guilt-Tea Pleasure mixes:

• Absolut Lime
• Cold brew jasmine tea
• Lillet Blanc
• Simple syrup
• Spicy ginger juice

Yep, it’s one TEA-riffic cocktail!  Steep yourself in the deliciousness of the Guilt-Tea Pleasure:

4. White Russian

What could be better than sitting around the table with friends, watching snow fall from your window while savoring a rich and decadent dessert? Sitting around the table with friends, watching snow fall from your window while sipping a rich and decadent dessert cocktail, that’s what!

And when it comes to dessert drinks, few are as easy to make yet impressive as a White Russian. This classic cocktail is made with equal parts Absolut Vodka and coffee liqueur and is then topped with shaken heavy cream. Coffee, vodka and cream – a perfect team that drinks like a dream.

Watch Rico show you how to make the perfect White Russian!

5. Absolut Pears Martini

Sip an Absolut Pears Martini and you’ll immediately be greeted by the unmistakable taste of poached pears – a flavor that embodies the essence of winter warmth.

Perfect to serve at dinner parties, this fruitini mixes Absolut Pears together with pear purée, lemon juice and simple syrup, delivering a drink that’s sweet, citrusy, slightly floral, but, above all, so damn good.

Trust us, the Absolut Pears Martini is a drink that “pear-fectly” adds coziness to any winter evening. Discover how to make an Absolut Pears Martini!

Watch Rico show how to make the Absolut Pears Martini!

Thanks, 2025! You’ve been full of unforgettable moments, awesome memories, and epic celebrations!

But before we say goodbye to 2025, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 most popular vodka cocktails according to trends that we’ve tracked across thousands of cocktail explorations this year!

These are the drinks that defined the world of cocktails in 2025. They’re the ones people searched for and sipped the most. Without further ado, let’s start with the favorite:

1. Espresso Martini

It ranked as the number one cocktail in 2024 and it sits in top spot again this year! The Espresso Martini is the most loved cocktail on the planet, so much so that it even has its own day of celebration – Espresso Martini Day!

Its three ingredients – Absolut Vodka, coffee liqueur and fresh espresso – are now legendary, just like the drink’s history. The ultimate after-dinner drink and a symbol of elegance, discover how to make an Absolut Espresso Martini.

2. Vodka Cranberry

Sometimes, simplicity is key. The Vodka Cranberry is perfectly uncomplicated, making it one of the easiest drinks to mix – so easy, in fact, you could make it blindfolded. It’s also a perfect drink for batching!

Grab a highball glass, fill it with ice, pour in 1.5 parts Absolut Vodka and 5 parts cranberry juice, give it a stir, and garnish with a lime wedge. But you guys already knew that, right?

3. Vodka Mojito

The Vodka Mojito has captured hearts worldwide! Of course, the classic Mojito is a beloved rum cocktail, but now it’s one of the most popular cocktails when made with vodka too!

A Vodka Mojito mixes Cuban zest and Swedish sophistication, thanks to the Absolut Vodka. Mint, lime, sugar and vodka – oh, sweet summer!

4. Cosmopolitan

It’s impossible to talk about vodka cocktails without discussing the Cosmopolitan. This modern classic cocktail was made for Absolut Citron – our lemon-flavored vodka – and vice versa. The two are inseparable.

Famous for its pink hue and delicious citrus flavors, the Cosmo is arguably the most famous of all cocktails made with vodka and triple sec.

So loved is this cocktail in the United States that, like the Espresso Martini, it has its own day where it’s celebrated – National Cosmopolitan Day.

Here’s how to make an Absolut Cosmo.

5. Skinny B**ch

When it comes to classic, easy to make drinks, the Skinny B**ch is hard to beat.

The epitome of cool, no-fuss drinks, this two-ingredient wonder is still one of the most popular drinks to order on a night out and one of the most searched for drinks online even after all these years. That says everything, really.

To make it, simply mix 1-and-a-quarter parts Absolut Vodka, 5 parts soda water and half a part lime juice in a highball glass filled with ice. Stir, sip, and enjoy!

6. Moscow Mule

As seen with the other drinks on this list, the thing about classic cocktails is that they never go out of style, and the Moscow Mule is a perfect example of a cocktail that has timeless appeal.

Invented in the United States during the 1940s, a classic mule is made with Absolut Vodka, lime juice and ginger beer. Served in its signature mule mug together with a mint sprig and a lime wedge, it’s spicy, zesty, bubbly, and, well, perfect. Here’s how to make an Absolut Mule.

7. Lemon Drop

The title for most popular vodka shot this year deservedly belongs to the Lemon Drop! Made with Absolut Citron – our lemon-flavored vodka – this beloved shot tastes just like lemon candies, balancing sweet and sour perfectly.

Shake together our lemon-flavored vodka, simple syrup and fresh lemon juice, then pour it into a shot glass and garnish with a lemon wedge. The zest in test – no wonder it’s one of the most searched for and requested shots!

8 Espresso Martini Jelly Shot

The Espresso Martini is so popular that it appears twice on this list – first as a classic cocktail and second as a jelly shot! Yep, this jellied version has shot (pun intended) into the top 10 most popular drinks list. We get it!

An Espresso Martini Jelly Shot mixes 1 part Absolut Vodka, 1 part coffee liqueur, 1 part cream, and 2 parts coffee. You’ll also need some instant gelatin (or agar-agar) to get the mixture set to set/jellify. This is one that you’ll definitely want to make a batch of to serve at your next party!

9. Sex on the Beach

Sex on the Beach is an iconic built drink (gotta love drinks that are made directly in the glass – no shaking or blending!) that combines Absolut Vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and cranberry juice.

It was big in the 80s and, now four decades on, it’s still one of the most popular cocktails around. Tangy, fruity, sweet and delicious, when you sip a Sex on the Beach cocktail, you’re reminded that it’s always summer somewhere.

10. Passion Star Martini

Coming in at number 10 is the Passion Star Martini. This fruitini (yep, that’s a martini made with fresh fruit) mixes Absolut Vanilia – our vanilla-flavored vodka, passion fruit purée, vanilla syrup, and muddled pineapple.

It’s shaken up and served in a martini glass with a floating passion fruit half – and as if that wasn’t enough – it’s accompanied by a shot of champagne (or prosecco).

You little attention seeker, you! There’s no other drink that screams “CELEBRATION!” quite like the Passion Star Martini.

Discover how to make an Absolut Passion Star Martini.

‘Tis the season to stir up some holiday cheer with festive drinks that are sure to sleigh your celebrations! If you’re looking to add a little spark to your festivities, you’ve landed in the right spot.

We’ve curated five incredibly delicious cocktails, including festive variations on classic cocktail favorites that will be the talk of any holiday gathering. Each drink features vodka as the star ingredient (of course!), showcasing some of our amazing, flavored vodkas like Absolut Mandrin, Absolut Vanilia, and Absolut Wild Berri.

Whether you’re hosting friends or family, these cocktails will beam with festive light and ensure a taste of sheer delight! Happy Holidays!

1. Grasshopper Nöel

Created by Absolut Global Brand Ambassador, Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, the Grasshopper Nöel gives the classic Grasshopper a holiday twist.

The original Grasshopper is a sweet, green-colored after-dinner cocktail made with equal parts green mint liqueur, white cocoa liqueur, and single cream. The Grasshopper Nöel retains the essential flavors but brings a festive touch.

It mixes equal parts Absolut Vanilia (vanilla-flavored vodka), mint amaro, and heavy cream. Sweet, creamy, and decadent. “It’s how I want my after-dinner mints to taste,” shares Rico. So do we, Rico – so do we.

Watch Rico make the Grasshopper Nöel:

2. Absolut Mandrin Eggnog

What would the holidays be without eggnog? But at Absolut, you know we have a knack for doing things differently, so we’re giving you an eggnog with a citrus twist.

Don’t be surprised if the Absolut Mandrin Eggnog is destined to become your new holiday tradition. This eggnog twist is made with our delicious mandarin-flavored vodka with a whole egg (yolks and all!), brown sugar syrup, chai-infused cream, and a few dashes of aromatic bitters. It’s then garnished with freshly grated nutmeg and a thin gingerbread cookie for that perfect festive touch.

3.  Holis

Ho-Ho-Holis! Here’s another riff on classic cocktail created by Absolut’s own Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan.

Best described as a Vodka Old Fashioned with a little bit of holiday cheer on top, the Holis is made with Absolut Vodka, Lillet Rouge rich syrup, chocolate bitters and orange zest. Oh yes!

“I surprise myself sometimes how good my drinks are – this is pretty delicious,” says Rico. But hey, don’t just take Rico’s word for it – make it yourself!

Rico shows how to make a Holis cocktail for the holidays:

4. Absolut Wild Berri Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini needs no introduction – it’s only the most popular cocktail in the world. But here, we’re giving it a festive makeover by swapping Absolut Vodka for Absolut Wild Berri.

But that’s not all – garnish your Absolut Wild Berri Espresso Martini with a sprinkle of crushed dehydrated berries and grated dark chocolate foam.

Now that’s a merry, berry Espresso Martini perfect for the holidays!

5. Jingle Mule 

Talking about popular classic drinks, there’s no one on the planet who doesn’t love a Mule cocktail! It’s trio of ingredients – vodka, spicy ginger beer and zesty lime juice – are legendary.

This holiday season, we’re giving your favorite cocktail a festive twist by adding cranberry juice to the mix and adding skewered sugared cranberries to garnish. We call it the Jingle Mule, but you can call it delicious.

Learn how to make the Jingle Mule, Wild Berri Espresso Martini and Absolut Mandrin Eggnog!

The countdown to the New Year is on and in this latest episode of Absolut Drinks with Rico, we’re seeing off this year in style!

Rico shows how to make three incredible New Year’s Eve cocktails that you and your guests will rave about long after the clock strikes midnight! Bubbles, martinis and mojitos – Rico’s cocktail list is sure to the highlight of any New Year’s Eve celebration. Let’s begin the countdown!

1. Pistachio Martini

If champagne is the symbol of celebration, then a martini is the epitome of sophistication. But New Year’s Eve isn’t just any day – it’s the perfect occasion to go all out and savor something truly decadent! So, Rico makes a Pistachio Martini that’s sure to be the highlight of any celebration.

This showstopper of a cocktail is shaken with Absolut Vanilia (you got it – our amazing vanilla-flavored vodka!), amaretto, and pistachio cream liqueur. And just when you think it can’t get any better – wait for it – a scoop of pistachio ice cream is added to the martini glass before straining and pouring the cocktail into the glass. Talk about going all out!

Is it dessert? Is it a martini? You bet it’s both! We don’t need to tell you how incredible the blend of marzipan, pistachio, and vanilla flavors is.

2. Royal Mojito

A classic Mojito might be the ultimate summer cocktail, but add champagne to the mix and you’ve got a drink that’s also charming and perfect for New Year’s Eve!

The Royal Mojito combines light rum, lime juice, mint leaves, and rich syrup. It’s crafted directly in the glass with crushed ice—no shaking or blending, just a good schmuddle (that’s a mix of muddling and stirring!).

After schmuddling, add more crushed ice, top with champagne, and garnish with a mint sprig.

3. Classic Champagne Cocktail

It’s not a New Year’s Eve celebration without champagne! But in the spirit of doing things a little differently, we’ll show you how to make a champagne cocktail that ensures every guest leaves impressed.

The Classic Champagne Cocktail combines champagne, cognac, and a sugar cube soaked in bitters to create a drink so impressive it deserves its own celebration!

As Rico shows, to make it, start by placing a sugar cube on a saucer and adding a couple of dashes of bitters directly onto it. Next, place the sugar cube at the bottom of a champagne flute. Pour in the cognac, then top with champagne, and garnish with an orange twist. Let the celebrations begin!

Adiós 2025! Here’s to an incredible 2026!
__

Watch Rico make 3 incredible cocktails for New Year’s Eve!

While everyone is counting down to the holidays, there’s something else to celebrate first – National Screwdriver Day!

Mark your calendars for December 14th, a day dedicated to honoring this classic vodka and orange juice cocktail.

Technically, National Screwdriver Day is celebrated in the United States, but this drink is so good, we think it deserves global recognition. Don’t you?

The Perfect Pairing – Vodka and Orange Juice

First things first, the Screwdriver is a built drink and one of the most loved cocktails in the world. And wouldn’t you know it; it’s also one of the easiest drinks in the world to make!

At the heart of a great Screwdriver is the perfect pairing of Absolut Vodka and orange juice. The smoothness of Absolut Vodka complements the citrus sweetness of fresh orange juice, creating the perfect no-fuss drink. But you already knew that didn’t you?

Here’s how to make a classic Screwdriver:

1. Grab a highball glass and fill it with ice cubes.
2. Pour 45 ml (1.5 parts) Absolut Vodka into the glass.
3. Juice fresh orange juice and then pour 150 ml (5 parts) into the glass.
4. Stir well then garnish with an orange wedge for the perfect finish.

Making the Best Screwdriver: Juice Your Own Orange Juice

We’ll cut straight to the chase – if you want to make the best tasting Screwdriver, you’ll need to use a centrifugal juicer to make your own orange juice.

A centrifugal juicer extracts juice from fruits using fast-spinning blades, which mix in air, giving the juice a frothy texture and leading to quicker oxidation.

“Just through aeration, you elevate this to the levels of world-class cocktail,” explains Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador.

The Heavenly Taste of Aerated Juice

So, what does a Screwdriver made with orange juice from a centrifugal juicer taste like?

“It tastes like heaven. The aeration of the juice makes such a difference. It makes it taste fresher and a more orange-forward drink,” says Rico. Trust us, the added air in the juice enhances the flavor, sip after sip.

Watch Rico show how to make the perfect Screwdriver below!

Alternatives to a Centrifugal Juicer

Don’t have a centrifugal juicer? No worries! A hand mixer works well too. Alternatively, you could use a good ol’ fashioned citrus press or a citrus elbow to extract the juice manually.

While these methods might not introduce the same level of aeration, they still provide fresh juice that beats store-bought options any day.

More Citrus Twists on a Screwdriver

Want to add a twist to your Screwdriver while retaining the essence of what makes it a great drink? Being that orange is part of the citrus family, swap Absolut Vodka for Absolut Mandrin, our mandarin-flavored vodka, and add a new dimension of citrus to your Screwdriver with notes of sweet sun-ripened mandarin and tangerine.

Or use Absolut Citron, our incredibly popular lemon-flavored vodka, to add a bright zesty flavor to your Screwdriver! You can’t go wrong with any of our citrus flavored vodkas!

Raise your highball glass to National Screwdriver Day!

Alright! We’re back with a brand-new episode of Absolut Drinks with Rico and this is one you won’t wanna miss!

First things first, there are three essential ingredients whenever you’re throwing a party: awesome people, great vibes, and amazing drinks. In this episode, Rico shows you how to make four incredible shots that are guaranteed to make your next party the stuff of legend.

Best of all, they’re easy to make and can be made as a big batch with enough to serve all your guests in one go!

1. Baby G

Kick off the night with the Baby G, a shot that resembles a mini pint of stout with a huge creamy head – but without the beer! This tiny wonder combines the bold, rich flavor of coffee liqueur (Kahlúa is our go-to!) with the creamy sweetness of Irish cream. Yeah, it’s basically dessert in a shot glass!

As you’ll see in the video below, making the Baby G shot couldn’t be easier – first, pour coffee liqueur into your shot glass until it’s ¾ full. Next, place a bar spoon upside down with the head just above the liquid, then slowly pour the Irish cream liqueur over the back of the spoon to create a float.

Smooth, creamy, and delicious!

2. Lemon Drop Shot

The Lemon Drop Shot is one of the most legendary shots of all time and a cousin of the Lemon Drop Martini.

This sweet and zesty shot is made with Absolut Citron lemon-flavored vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup, served in a sugared rimmed shot glass.

It’s true what they say: good things come in small packages. The Lemon Drop Shot really is a perfect shot!

3. Espresso Martini Shot

Want to add some sophistication to your party? Then it’s time for the Espresso Martini Shot!

This classy little number is, of course, a mini version of an Espresso Martini – the world’s most popular cocktail – and is destined to become your new favorite shot. Trust us on this one!

Its rich, bold coffee flavor and legendary combination of Absolut Vodka, fresh espresso, and coffee liqueur makes it the ultimate late-night or after-dinner shot. It’s an apéritif and dessert in one!

4. Pickleback Shot

Last but certainly not least – the Pickleback Shot. This is popular two-step shot invented in Brooklyn begins with a shot of whiskey – traditionally Jameson Irish Whiskey – followed by a shot of pickle brine or juice.

As odd as it might sound, the whiskey and pickle juice works incredibly well together. In fact, it’s absolutely delicious!

You could even say it’s a bit like a tangy, savory, less-sweet Whiskey Sour cocktail. The salty chaser mellows the warmth of the whiskey, leaving you with a savory, tangy finish.

Now, let’s get the party started!

National Bartender Day occurs on the first Friday of December in the United States, celebrating those amazing mixologists behind the bar who make delicious drinks at our favorite bars and restaurants!

At Absolut, we believe a party should welcome everyone, so we say celebrate wherever you are in the world! Not stopping there, let’s raise a glass to bartenders of all skills levels, including home bartenders, who infuse passion, creativity, and flavor into every glass.

So, whether you’re a bartender working at a bar, a home bartending pro, or just starting to explore the world of cocktails, this day is for you!

Why Celebrate Bartenders?

Bartenders are the ones who bring a little magic to your night out. They inspire your next drink choice, turn a simple cocktail into a conversation piece, and make every moment feel like an occasion.

With their knack for flavors and spirits, they mix up the kind of drinks that can take any evening to the next level. National Bartender Day is a great time to give a shoutout to their creativity and hard work in making every bar experience special.

But hey, while professional bartenders have honed their skills, home bartenders are a big part of the cocktail scene too. If you’re throwing a party or just chilling at home, reading the room and knowing what drinks to make your guests (and how!) takes some skill.

5 Drinks Anyone Can Make at Home!

No matter your skill level, we’ve got five easy-to-make drinks that anyone can make at home. These cocktails are delicious and guaranteed to impress at your next party!

Absolut Lemonade

We aren’t kidding when we say we’ve got drinks that anyone can make! The Absolut Lemonade is a simple three-ingredient built drink that’s made directly in the glass. Nope, you don’t need a shaker…or any other bar tools for that matter!

The Absolut Lemonade mixes Absolut Vodka, lemonade and soda water, and is then garnished with a lemon wedge or two. Crisp, bubbly and citrusy – it’s a perfect drink that works any time of year and at any party or gathering.

Check out our Absolut Lemonade drink recipe!

Seabreeze

The Seabreeze is a classic vodka cocktail that, like the Absolut Lemonade, consists of just three ingredients and is made directly in the glass. Woo-hoo!

Tart yet smooth and delicious, the Seabreeze is a timeless cocktail that’s been loved for decades and decades.

Here’s how to mix a Seabreeze:

1. Grab a highball glass and fill it with ice cubes.
2. Pour 45 ml (1.5 parts) of Absolut Vodka into the glass.
3. Pour in 80 ml (2.5 parts) of sweetened cranberry juice, followed by 45 ml (1.5 parts) of grapefruit juice.
4. Give everything a good stir.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.

For this one, we highly recommend that you use a juicer to make your own grapefruit juice, but hey, use what you’ve got – even if that means store-bought juice.

Absolut Mule

When it comes to cocktails, there’s few drinks more popular than a classic Mule!

Effervescent, zesty and spicy, an Absolut Mule mixes Absolut Vodka together with fresh lime juice and ginger beer. What a trio!

A Mule is traditionally made and served in a signature copper mule mug with ice cubes, garnished with a lime wedge and a mint sprig…and that’s a tradition we believe is worth upholding!

Did we mention there’s no shaking or blending? Talk about an easy to make drink that checks all the boxes!

Check out the recipe for an Absolut Mule!

Vodka Martini

Now we’re going to turn up the elegance without sacrificing simplicity!

If you’re hosting a cocktail party or just want to add a touch of sophistication to any evening, you can’t go wrong with a Vodka Martini. This timeless cocktail always makes an impression, yet it’s super easy to make (pssst – don’t worry, we won’t tell your guests!).

Oh! And you guessed it – it’s another drink that doesn’t require any shaking!

Here’s how to make a Vodka Martini:

1. Add ice cubes to a mixing glass.
2. Measure and pour 45 ml (1.5 parts) Absolut Vodka.
3. Add 5 ml (0.25 part) dry vermouth.
4. Stir until perfectly chilled and you achieve the perfect dilution.
5. Pour into a chilled martini glass.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist and a green olive placed directly in the glass.

Oh-so-elegant!

Absolut Raspberri Collins

The final drink on our list brings a twist to our list – it’s a shaken cocktail, so you’ll need a cocktail shaker. That’s not all; it also features Absolut Raspberri, our delicious raspberry-flavored vodka, as its base!

If you’re a fan of the classic Collins cocktail, you’ll adore this raspberry rendition. It mixes Absolut Raspberri, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water. Yep, it’s another easy to make drink that’s sure to turn heads!

Here’s how to make an Absolut Raspberri Collins.

Happy National Bartender Day wherever you are in the world and cheers to bartenders everywhere, at bars, restaurants and at home!

When you think of Thanksgiving, it’s the incredible aromas of cinnamon, cranberry, apple, pumpkin, and ginger that emanate from every Thanksgiving table.

With this in mind, we’ve put together a list of five vodka cocktails – featuring some of our favorite flavored vodkas – that embody the spirit of Thanksgiving… minus the turkey, of course.

1. Ginger Martini

When you’re racing around, setting the table and prepping that delicious Thanksgiving feast, easy drinks are a smart choice – no shaking, no blending. Woo-hoo!

A Ginger Martini is a drink made with two ingredients. But have no doubts, this drink is bound to impress your guests. Here’s how to do it:

• Mix 45 ml (1.5 parts) Absolut Citron (lemon flavored vodka) with a dash of ginger syrup in a mixing glass. 
• Add ice cubes to the mixing glass. 
• Stir until perfectly chilled and you achieve your desired dilution. 

Now that’s one elegant and aromatic Thanksgiving sipper. 

2.Appletini 

Ah! The aroma of green apples conjures images of fall apple orchards, making the Appletini a great choice for the holiday. Sweet, tart, and delicious, this classic cocktail carries an undeniable nostalgic charm. C’mon, it was HUGE in the 80s!

Here’s how to mix this easy-to-make cocktail:

• Pour 45 ml (1.5 parts) Absolut Vodka into a cocktail shaker. 
• Pour 25 ml (0.85 parts) lemon juice, 25 ml (0.85 parts) simple syrup, 20 ml (approx. 0.70 parts) apple liqueur, and 20 ml (approx. 0.70 parts) apple juice into the shaker.
• Strain into a chilled martini glass.

Now you’ve got a drink that’s guaranteed to be the apple of everyone’s eye.  

3. Falling Leaves 

How could you resist including a cocktail named Falling Leaves on your Thanksgiving menu? But it’s not just the name that makes it appropriate; it’s one deliciously citrusy drink. 

A Falling Leaves cocktail combines mandarin-flavored vodka with the tartness of cranberry and lemon juice, and a generous pour of cider. Best yet, it’s another drink where there’s no shaking or blending required – grab a highball glass and get mixing!

• Grab a highball glass and pour 45 ml (1.5 parts) Absolut Mandrin into the glass.
• Add 60 ml (2 parts) cider and 30 ml (1 part) sweetened cranberry juice. 
• Add 15 ml (0.5 part) lemon juice, and 10 ml (0.65 part) simple syrup. 
• Give everything a good stir. 
• Finish with a cinnamon stick to bring home those warm, cozy vibes synonymous with Thanksgiving.  

 4. Vodka Cranberry 

What would Thanksgiving be without cranberry sauce? We’ll go so far to say that if there’s just one ingredient synonymous with Thanksgiving, it’s cranberries. This makes the Vodka Cranberry an essential drink to serve. 

This extremely easy-to-make drink mixes 45 ml (1.5 parts) Absolut Vodka with 150 ml (5 parts) sweetened cranberry juice, served in a highball glass filled with ice cubes and garnished with a lime wedge. That’s it!

Fresh and tart, a Vodka Cranberry is the perfect complement to a Thanksgiving feast.

5. Pumpkin Pie Martini 

Last on our list is dessert…well, a dessert-cocktail to be precise. It wouldn’t be Thanksgiving unless there was Pumpkin Pie, which makes the Pumpkin Pie Martini the ultimate cocktail to toast with on Thanksgiving.

You get the warm vanilla tones of Absolut Vanilia mixed with luscious creamy milk, a dash of fiery cinnamon syrup and a big dollop of pumpkin purée. Oh my!

Ready for a liquid slice of pumpkin pie?

• Grab a Boston shaker and add ice cubes.
• Pour in 45 ml (1.5 parts) Absolut Vanilia into the shaker. 
• Pour 30 ml (1 part) milk, two tablespoons of pumpkin purée, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon syrup into the shaker.  
• Shake, strain, sip and enjoy!

Here’s to a Happy Thanksgiving!

Great job! So, you’ve picked up a bottle of Absolut Mandrin, huh? We love the way you think!  

It’s no secret that we love citrus here at Absolut. Absolut Mandrin is part of our citrus-flavored vodkas, alongside Absolut Grapefruit, Absolut Citron and Absolut Lime. Welcome to the family! 

As soon as you open the bottle, you’re greeted with the sweet scent of mandarin and notes of tangerine. Take a sip and you’ll taste fresh-squeezed mandarin with mature and distinguished flavors of dried mandarin peel.  

Like all our other Absolut flavored vodkas, the versatility of Absolut Mandrin opens up a whole world of cocktails. Here are just five easy drinks with Absolut Mandrin to get you started!

The Mandrin Boulevard 

When you think of mandarin, you probably think fresh, citrusy and bright. Absolut Mandrin delivers all that, but with bold and mature notes that make it perfect for spirit-forward cocktails.

Enter the Mandrin Boulevard – a vodka twist on The Boulevardier cocktail. The Mandrin Boulevard mixes Absolut Mandrin, sweet vermouth and Italian red bitter liqueur. Here’s how to make it:  

• Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes
  
• Add 25 ml (1 part) Absolut Mandrin, 25 ml (1 part) sweet vermouth, and 25 ml (1 part) Italian red bitter liqueur into the mixing glass.
  
• Give everything a good stir until it’s perfectly chilled and diluted to your liking.
  
• Add a large piece of ice into a chilled rocks glass, garnish with a piece of orange zest. Sip and enjoy!

Watch Rico make both The Boulevardier and The Mandrin Boulevard: 

Blood Orange Cosmo 

If you’re like us and you love a Cosmopolitan, then you’re going to love what Absolut Mandrin can bring to the drink. We call it the Blood Orange Cosmo.

This variation sticks to the traditional Cosmo recipe but replaces Absolut Citron with Absolut Mandrin, adds a splash of blood orange juice, and reduces the lime juice for a distinctive citrus twist. Trust us, the result is a cocktail that brings bold new flavors to the beloved original.

Here how to mix it: 

• Grab a shaker and fill it with ice cubes – you want it nice and cool!
• Add 45 ml (1.5 parts) Absolut Mandrin.
• Add 45 ml (1.5 parts) cranberry juice. 
• Add 15 ml (0.50 part) Triple Sec. 
• Squeeze and add 10 ml (approx. 0.35 part) of fresh blood orange juice. 
• Add 5 ml (approx. 0.15 part) fresh lime juice. 
• Shake until your shaker is frosty on the outside. 
• Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Ahhhhh! 

The Mandrin Crush

If it’s possible to have a crush on a cocktail, then the Mandrin Crush is definitely the one stealing our hearts!

This drink combines Absolut Mandrin, passion fruit syrup, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and simple syrup. Shake it up with ice, strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice, and garnish with an orange wedge.

The bright citrus notes blend incredibly with the sweet and sour flavors of the passion fruit syrup, creating a drink that’s effortlessly lovable. Here’s how to do it:  

• Grab a shaker and add 45 ml (3 parts) Absolut Mandrin. 
• Add 15 ml (1 part) fresh lemon juice. 
• Add 15 ml (1 part) passion fruit syrup 
• Add 15 ml (1 part) simple syrup. 
• Add ice cubes to the shaker and get shaking! 
• Shake until it’s cold to the touch, then strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice. 
• Garnish with an orange wedge to finish. 

Matilda

Did someone say brunch? The Matilda cocktail is reminiscent of a vodka Mimosa mixing fresh orange juice, vodka and champagne. 

But the Matilda doesn’t stop there – it turns up the citrus flavors by adding Absolut Mandrin and triple sec to the mix. Whooah! And we all know how incredible cocktails with vodka and triple sec are, don’t we? Here’s how to make the Matilda: 

• Fill a shaker with ice cubes. 
• Add 30 ml (1 part) Absolut Mandrin.  
• Add 60 ml (2 parts) fresh-pressed orange juice. 
• Add 10 ml (approx. 0.30 part) triple sec. 
• Get shaking! Shake until it’s oh-so-frosty. 
• Strain into a cocktail glass. 
• Top up with champagne. And cheers!

Whether you’re toasting at brunch or ringing in the New Year, the Matilda is a perfect choice.  

Mandrin Punch

Another great example of Absolut Mandrin’s versatility is the Mandrin Punch, which blends citrusy, spicy and tropical for a drink that’s sure to be a hit at any summer party.

The Mandrin Punch is a built drink, which also means it’s an easy to make drink. High-five! Here’s how to make the Mandrin Punch: 

• Grab a highball glass and fill it with ice cubes. 
• Add 45 ml (1.5 parts) Absolut Mandrin. 
• Add 75 ml (2.5 parts) ginger ale. 
• Add 45 ml (1.5 parts) pineapple juice 
• Give everything a stir. 
• Garnish with a lemon wedge and a lime wedge. 

It’s a citrusy delight that shines ever so bright!  

In celebration of the 2025 Absolut Haring artist edition release – a collaboration between Absolut Vodka and artist Keith Haring – the Absolut Drinks Team crafted three Haring-inspired cocktails to mark the occasion.

In this post we chat to Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, Bartender and Absolut Vodka Global Brand Ambassador to learn more about the Absolut Haring Fizz and take a look at the Absolut Haring Collins.

So then…

What is the Absolut Haring Fizz?

Much like Haring’s art, the Absolut Haring Fizz stands as a masterpiece in its own right. This drink is a bold East-meets-West fusion: crisp apple, zesty orange and toasted sesame with a kick of ginger, while its golden yellow hue mirrors Haring’s original Absolut artwork.

What is the Absolut Haring Collins?

The Absolut Haring Collins is a shake-and-serve cocktail that mixes Absolut Vodka, fresh orange juice, fresh lemon juice, spicy ginger syrup, and crisp, effervescent soda water. Best of all, the Absolut Haring Collins is an easy-to-make drink. Simply shake the ingredients with ice in a shaker, then double strain the cocktail into a Collins glass before topping up with soda water and garnishing with orange zest. The result is a drink that’s citrusy, clean, bubbly and spicy. These characteristics perfectly represent Haring’s lively works and boundary-pushing style.

Inspiration behind the Absolut Haring Fizz

Where the Absolut Haring Collins can be made in just minutes, the Absolut Haring Fizz requires a bit of prep, including allowing some of the ingredients to refrigerate overnight. Like great art, some creations are simply worth the wait – just like Warhol’s Milk Punch, which Rico created for the 2024 Absolut Warhol limited edition release. Despite their obvious differences, we asked Rico about how the creation of the Absolut Haring Fizz differed from the process for Warhol’s Milk Punch.

“With Warhol’s signature cocktail, we created to celebrate the rediscovery of his blue painting, we devised a drink that we thought he would like. We were fortunate, as there were plenty of stories about his sweet tooth and his love for cornflakes, which were the inspiration behind Warhol’s Milk Punch,” explains Rico.

“With Keith Haring, such information wasn’t as readily available and so we started to delve into his art,” continues Rico. “His drawings are brilliantly simple and so we looked at simple ingredients – oranges, apples and lemons, but explored how we could create something a little more complex with them. We also wanted to include ingredients that would be a nod to his love of Asian food.”

Making the Absolut Haring Fizz

The Absolut Haring Fizz is a truly unique cocktail made with sesame-washed Absolut Vodka, orange and lemon sherbet, apple and ginger foam, soda water, and is garnished with black sesame seeds.

“Creating new cocktails is always a case of trial and error, but we ended up with a drink using a lemon and orange sherbet that unintentionally came out almost the exact color of Haring’s original Absolut painting,” says Rico.

This drink from scratch requires two days, where the ingredients need to sit in the refrigerator overnight. But like great art, patience is part of the process.

“The orange and lemon sherbet is basically an oleo saccharum, which is Latin for an oily sugar. It’s made using equal parts orange and lemon zest and sugar, which you cover and leave overnight so the sugar draws in the oil,” explains Rico. “By the morning, the sugar has melted and once strained, you are left with a very intense, phenomenal tasting citrus-flavored oil that is made from everyday ingredients.”

Start by mixing apple juice, ginger syrup, lemon juice, and egg whites, then transfer the blend into a Nitro Siphon Canister. Charge it up with two N₂O cartridges and let it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours.

Once day two arrives, it’s time to bring the Absolut Haring Fizz to life. But before we dive in, there’s one more crucial component of the drink that deserves our attention.

Absolut Haring Fizz: An Asian Inspired Cocktail

“Given Haring’s connection to Asia, we were very keen to add some sesame flavor,” shares Rico. “We initially looked at using a sesame paste and sesame oil, but we decided to revert to a ‘fat washing’ technique because we wanted the flavor, but without the oiliness or thick paste.”

“Fat washing is a process where you typically add fat to alcohol, let the fat solidify and take it away. In this case, we used sesame oil instead of fat,” explains Rico.

“When you take the mixture of sesame oil and alcohol out of the freezer, you’re left with a spirit that has a luxurious taste of sesame. It was then simply a case of combining all the elements, shaking the sesame vodka with the sherbet, applying foam on top and garnishing with a thick black sesame line.”

You can find the full cocktail recipe for the Absolut Haring Fizz on AbsolutDrinks.com.