WATCH: Rico makes a classic Cantaritos

If you love Tequila drinks (and who doesn’t?), then you’re going to love the latest episode of Absolut Drinks with Rico, where Rico makes a Cantaritos.

What is a Cantaritos, you ask?

The Cantaritos is a Tequila-based cocktail originating from Mexico and could say it’s a cousin to the Paloma cocktail – another Tequila classic from Mexico!

The Cantaritos is believed to have originated during the Mexican Revolution (1910 – 1917) and it’s been a Mexican favorite ever since.

Served in a traditional clay jug rimmed with Salt, it combines Tequila, Fresh Citrus Juice, and a splash of Grapefruit Soda, then garnished with a Lime Wedge. In other words, it’s like the taste of Mexico in a glass…or rather, the taste of Mexico in a clay jug to be more accurate.

Is it difficult to make a Cantaritos?

Nope. Not only does the Cantaritos taste incredible but, as Rico explains, “It’s easy to make and you have every ingredient on your doorstep.” That’s right, no exotic fruits or hard-to-find ingredients, nor any shakers or blenders.

“Once you’ve got everything prepped, it’s a built drink, so you can just dump everything into the glass,” says Rico.

The key to making a great-tasting Cantaritos is fresh juice. We say it every time – there’s nothing like fresh-squeezed juice. For this drink, you’ll want to have a Citrus Elbow handy because you’ll be juicing fresh Lime, Orange and Grapefruit. That’s right – the Cantaritos is one juicy cocktail!

Not sure what a Citrus Elbow is? Check out our article of essential home bartending tools.

“Can you make a Cantaritos with Vodka instead of Tequila?”

You’re a regular here, aren’t you?

As with every episode of Absolut Drinks with Rico, in addition to making the classic drink, Rico likes to make a variation of the drink using Vodka instead of the original spirit. Many times, Rico uses one our delicious Absolut Flavored Vodkas instead of the original Absolut Vodka.

In this episode, Rico recreates the Cantaritos using Absolut Peppar instead of Tequila and replaces Salt with Tajin spice to Rim the drinking vessel. Pepper-Flavored Vodka and Tajin Spice? Oooooh, now that’s spicy!

So…what do you think? “Will It Vodka?”.

You’ll just have to watch to find out!

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Don’t forget to like and subscribe to Absolut Drinks on YouTube so you never miss a drink!

In the latest episode of Absolut Drinks with Rico, Rico makes a Sloe Gin classic known as the San Francisco (Café Royal Version).

With its origins dating all the way back to 1937, “It’s an undeniable classic”, declares Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador.

So, how do you make a San Francisco (Café Royal Version)?

Very easily. You see, the San Francisco (Café Royal Version) is an equal parts, stirred drink. This means no shaking, no special home bartending tools nor any elaborate preparation.

Unsure what “equal parts” means? No problems – check out our post where we explain what a “part” is and how to use parts to make cocktails.

The San Francisco (Café Royal Version) is made with equal parts Sloe Gin, Dry Vermouth, Sweet Vermouth, and a couple of dashes of both Orange and Angostura Bitters.

To accentuate the elegance of this drink, Rico recommends serving it in a Nick & Nora Glass and garnishing the drink with a Maraschino Cherry on a cocktail pick.

To learn more about how to make your drinks look great, read this post.

What does a San Francisco (Café Royal Version) cocktail taste like?

Despite being an easy to make cocktail, the San Francisco (Café Royal Version) is wonderfully complex –both fruity, and aromatic.

“It’s super sweet. You’ve got both worlds of two different Vermouths, both dry and sweet, balancing it out and you have that Sloe Gin,” shares Rico.

Make this one for your guests at your next gathering and you’re sure to earn some cocktail cred.

“Can you make the San Francisco cocktail with Vodka instead of Sloe Gin?”

If you’re a regular viewer of Absolut Drinks with Rico, you’ll know that, in addition to making the classic drink, Rico likes to make a variation of the drink with Vodka, often times with one of our Absolut Flavored Vodkas.

In this episode, Rico reimagines the San Francisco (Café Royal Version) by swapping Sloe Gin for Vodka. He sticks to the original recipe with one part Dry Vermouth and one part Sweet Red Vermouth, but uses one part Absolut Vodka instead of Sloe Gin, along with a few dashes of Angostura and Orange Bitters.

To keep the drink’s viscosity and sweetness, he adds a couple of bar spoons of Maraschino Syrup to bring out the red fruit flavors.

But the question remains, “Will It Vodka?”.

Watch to find out!

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Don’t forget to like and subscribe to Absolut Drinks on YouTube so you never miss a drink!

When you’ve got a house full of people, you need drink recipes that are quick to make but will still impress your guests.

Lo and behold, we’ve got five simple party drinks you and your guests will love. These party drinks have one thing in common—they’re all two-ingredient wonders.

Two-ingredient cocktails are not only easy to throw together, but both ingredients play an equal role and complement each other perfectly. Get your measurements right, and you’ll have a drink that comes together literally in seconds and you know that tastes amazing.

The Key to Two-Ingredient Cocktails

“When you’re making a drink with just two ingredients, make sure they’re the best you can buy,” says Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador. With two-ingredient drinks, you can’t hide anything, so the quality of your ingredients is everything.

This means using Premium Vodka Products and grabbing a Citrus Press and making your own Fresh Squeezed Juice instead of store-bought stuff.  Don’t miss our article on the 7 essential home bartending tools.

Make a Batch of Cocktails

All five drinks below can be made as batched cocktails and so depending on how many guests you’ve got coming, this can be the difference a relaxed evening and a stressful one. Our suggestion? Mix up a big batch of any of these drinks, sit back, and enjoy the party!

To make a large batch of these drinks, simply use “parts” when making the drink. Not sure what a cocktail part is? No worries – learn how to measure cocktails using parts right here.

Now, without further ado, we introduce to you five of our favorite party drinks with just two ingredients each:

Vodka Cranberry

The Vodka Cranberry is such an easy to make cocktail that Rico can make it with his eyes closed. Watch the video below.

But, of course, easy to make doesn’t mean not delicious. In fact, the Vodka Cranberry is one of the most popular drinks around, so much so that it ranked as the fourth most popular cocktail last year. And for good reason. The tartness and subtle sweetness of Cranberry Juice marries perfectly with the smooth, clean flavor of Absolut Vodka.

Effortlessly cool, easy to batch and perfect for any occasion, here’s how to make a Vodka Cranberry.

Vodka Soda

Got a bottle of Soda Water and Absolut Vodka at home? Now just grab a Lime for garnish and you’re all set.

“The key to this drink, I think, is to get a lot of fresh Lime Juice in there,” says Rico. So, when you’re adding the garnish, give the Lime a good squeeze to get that juice into your drink.

It’s moments like these you’re reminded that simplicity is often best. And it seems so many of you agree, with the Vodka Soda named in the top 10 most popular cocktails last year.

Crisp, bubbly, delicious, check out our recipe for a Vodka Soda.

Screwdriver

This two-ingredient classic cocktail is loved at cafes, bars and homes all over the world. Made with Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice and Absolut Vodka, the Screwdriver works wonderfully during any occasion, and works especially well during brunch.

Tip! If you want to get your drinks up to bar-level quality, you need to make your own juice. Don’t miss this post where we share how to use a juicer to make incredible cocktails.  Here’s how to make a Screwdriver cocktail.

Absolut Raspberri Tonic

Who doesn’t love the taste and aroma of Raspberry? There’s something undeniably nostalgic about it – the ripeness, the sweetness, the tartness – it’s incredible.

For this drink, there’s no need for shakers or blenders. The Absolut Raspberri Tonic is built directly in a highball glass. It doesn’t get easier than that.

Simply fill your Glass with Ice Cubes, then measure and pour Absolut Raspberri (Raspberry-Flavored Vodka) into the Glass, followed by Tonic Water, and then garnish with a Lemon Wedge. Trust us, it’s berry hard to beat during summer. Here’s how to make an Absolut Raspberri Tonic.

The Greyhound

The Greyhound is a personal favorite around here. It mixes the sheer deliciousness of Absolut Grapefruit (Grapefruit-Flavored Vodka) with Fresh Grapefruit. That…is…all. And yet it checks all the boxes. It’s juicy, it’s fruity, it’s zesty, it’s tart, and it’s almost creamy if you juice your Grapefruit using a Centrifugal Juicer. Serve this, and you’ll have guests declaring it “Drink of the Party”. Here’s how to make The Greyhound cocktail.

Absolut Citron is more than just a delicious Lemon-Flavored Vodka, it’s our most popular flavored vodka and even inspired the creation of The Cosmopolitan, one of the most loved and best known modern cocktails.

With its bright, zesty Lemon flavor and sheer versatility, Absolut Citron has earned its place as a must-have for home bars. In addition to The Cosmopolitan, it serves as the perfect foundation for both timeless classics and innovative cocktails alike.

Below we highlight five of the best, easy-to-make cocktails with Absolut Citron.

Citrus Martini

A classic Vodka Martini is traditionally garnished with a Lemon Twist or a Green Olive as the ultimate symbol of sophistication and elegance. With the Citrus Martini, the flavor of Lemon is dialed all the way up.

The delicious Citrus-forward Martini mixes the deliciousness of Absolut Citron, with Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice, the sweet Orange flavors of Triple Sec and a touch of Simple Syrup to create a Martini that’s a real citrus sensation!

Here’s how to make a Citrus Martini.

Absolut Citron Espresso Martini

This isn’t just another lemon-y twist on an classic cocktail recipe but a lemon-y twist on the most popular cocktail today.

In southern Italy, an Espresso is typically served with a piece of Lemon Zest, so you could say the Absolut Citron Espresso Martini is a nod to southern Italy. It’s quite simply zest-in-class!

Discover our recipe for an Espresso Martini with Absolut Citron.

Lemon Drop Shot

Bright, sweet, and bursting with zest, the Lemon Drop Shot is the ultimate party pleaser.

A cousin of the Lemon Drop Martini, it combines Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice with Absolut Citron, which is then sweetened and balanced out by Simple Syrup and its Sugar-coated Shot Glass.. The best part? Since it’s a shot, all those incredible flavors are packed into one zesty hit. Sweet, sour and so incredibly good. Discover our recipe for the Lemon Drop Shot.

Citron Gimlet

The Gimlet flourished in the 20th century golden age of the cocktail and it’s still here today. And for good reason – it’s simple to make and delicious to drink.

Traditionally made with gin, the Citron Gimlet gives the spotlight to Absolut Citron, giving this timeless cocktail an irresistible citrus twist.

Picture this: Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice, a hint of Lime Peel, our beloved Lemon-Flavored Vodka, and a touch of Simple Syrup. It’s a citrus lover’s dream! The only question is, how can something simple be so good? Learn how to make a Citron Gimlet.

Absolut Negroni

The Negroni is an undisputed classic and a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts worldwide. Now, imagine giving this beloved drink a zesty makeover with a lemon twist—introducing the Absolut Negroni!

Traditionally made with Gin, the Absolut Negroni swaps in Absolut Citron, creating a citrus sensation, where the Lemon notes intertwine perfectly with the Italian bitter red liqueur. Trust us on this one, this variation on the classic Negroni is utterly citru-licious!

Here’s how to make a Negroni variation with Lemon-Flavored Vodka.

Valentine’s Day— the day when everything turns red and heart-shaped, including the cocktails.

Whether you’re setting the mood for a cozy night for two or hosting a Valentine’s get-together for twenty, we’ve put together six delicious Valentine’s Day cocktails that are easy to make and are guaranteed to win hearts everywhere.

Shaken or stirred, it’s time to toast to Valentine’s Day!

Vodka Cranberry


Uncomplicated yet sophisticated, the Vodka Cranberry is an easy-to-make, two-ingredient cocktail, and the perfect choice to toast this Valentine’s Day.

Trust us, its flirty mix of tart Cranberry Juice and the smoothness of Absolut Vodka is like Cupid’s arrow coming straight for your taste buds.

Here’s how to make a Vodka Cranberry.

Cosmopolitan


More Cranberries? You got it. With their stunning red hue, Cranberries spice up any Valentine’s celebration and nothing says “I love you” like the Cosmopolitan – one of the best beloved cocktails in the world.

The classic Cosmo is sassy mix of Absolut Citron, Cranberry Juice, Triple Sec, and Lime Juice and it’s been captivating cocktail lovers for years. One sip and you’ll see why.

Discover our recipe for a classic Cosmopolitan.

Strawberry Night


Is there anything that says romance better than the aroma and flavor of Vanilla and Strawberry?

Strawberry Night is a cocktail that blends the deliciousness of Absolut Vanilia (Vanilla-Flavored Vodka) with Passion Fruit Juice, and Passion Fruit Liqueur, and is then garnished with fresh Strawberries, a wedge of Pineapple and a Vanilla Pod. Oh, sweet, sweet love!

Discover our recipe for a Strawberry Night.

Vodka Martini

Embrace the timeless charm of a classic Vodka Martini. With its elegant blend of Absolut Vodka and Dry Vermouth, garnished with an Olive or a twist of Lemon, it exudes the sophistication of old-school romance. Sip and savor a love that’s truly classic.

Discover our recipe for a Vodka Martini.

Peach on the Beach


Looking for something peachy? Then the Peach on the Beach is going to be love at first sip.

This deliciously smooth and easy-to-make cocktail blends Absolut Vodka, Cranberry Juice, Orange Juice, Peach Liqueur, and is garnished with a Peach Wedge. What more can we say? It’s peach-perfect!

Here’s how to make a Peach on the Beach.

Soho Martini 


There’s something fitting about the elegance of a Martini and the excitement of Valentine’s Day, so hey, we’re adding one more Martini to this list of Valentine’s Day cocktails.

The irresistibly delicious Soho Martini is a sultry blend 1 and ¼ parts of Absolut Vodka, a ¼ part of Absolut Vanilia (Vanilla-Flavored Vodka), together with a ¼ part Triple Sec, and just a dash of Orange Bitters.

Soho? So yes! Easy to make, easy to love. Here’s how to make a Soho Martini.

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For more Valentine’s Day cocktail suggestions, see our full Valentine’s Day cocktail collection at AbsolutDrinks.com

Knowing how to shake a cocktail shaker properly is a must for every home bartender. Cocktail making really is all about the details, and a good shake can turn a good drink into a great one.

Just ask Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador: “To master cocktails, you’ve got to master shakers and strainers.”

Thankfully, cocktail shaking isn’t some secret skill known only to a few; it’s something anyone can pick up easily.

What cocktail shaker is best?

There are different types of cocktail shakers, but the one you see professional bartenders using is called a Boston Shaker.

On the other hand, the cobbler shaker is more common in home bars. It’s a three-piece shaker with a metal tin, built-in strainer, and a cap. Its design makes mixing and pouring a breeze, perfect for beginners, and you won’t need a separate strainer.

Even so, we recommend the Boston Shaker for home bars and home bartenders of all levels. There are actually two types of Boston Shakers: one with two different-sized metal tins and one with a metal tin and a mixing glass.

We prefer the tin-on-tin variety. It features a larger tin (28 oz/800 ml) and a smaller tin (18 oz/450 ml). The different sizes create a tight seal, ensuring everything stays secure during vigorous shaking. The last thing you want is your shaker to open mid-shake!

Why use a cocktail shaker?

“The purpose of a shaker is literally to combine all your flavors, to blend them into one cohesive flavor,” explains Rico.

“Whether shaking or stirring drinks, you’re creating different types of texture,” he continues. “When you shake drinks with citrus juice in a shaker like Kamikazes, Cosmopolitans and stuff like that, you create a very crisp, fresh and crunchy texture. Whereas if you’re going to stir drinks, you’re going to create a much more smooth, velvety texture.”

And if you’re wondering if you can shake a cocktail without a cocktail shaker, technically, yes. You could use a household item like a Thermos, but you won’t get the same result since it’s not designed for shaking cocktails. So, do you really need a cocktail shaker? In short, yes.

How should you shake a cocktail shaker?

“Always shake hard,” advises Rico. “There’s a phrase in the industry that says, shake it, don’t tickle it.”

When shaking, hold the shaker firmly with both hands—one on each end and use a back-and-forth motion with plenty of power. Power is key! Check out the video above to see Rico demonstrate the proper technique.

One of the most common questions is how long to shake a cocktail shaker. You’ll know you’re done when you feel it getting cold in your hands and see condensation forming on the outside. That’s your cue to stop shaking.

What is the difference between a dry shake and a wet shake?

In the video, Rico makes a Vodka Sour to demonstrate two different shaking techniques – the Dry Shake and the Reverse Dry Shake. That’s right, there’s more than one way to shake a cocktail!

A Dry Shake involves shaking the mixture without ice first. Then, you add ice and do a Wet Shake. Why? For a Vodka Sour, which uses Egg White (or Aquafaba), you emulsify the mixture first, then add ice to chill.

The Reverse Dry Shake is the opposite – you shake with ice first, strain out the ice, and then shake again to emulsify.

So then, which shaking method is the best? “It’s actually a personal preference,” says Rico.  That’s the beauty of bartending – there are strict rules and guidelines, but the truth is they are guidelines. Whichever version you prefer, whichever technique you want to use, they’re both perfectly fine.”

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Now that you’ve read about how to use a cocktail shaker, it’s time to make some drinks. Wondering where to start? Check out the Top 10 Most Popular Cocktails of 2024.

That bottle of Absolut Raspberri you have in your hand is more than just a delicious Raspberry-Flavored Vodka, it’s a powerfully versatile tool in your home bartending arsenal that allows you to create unique variations of classic cocktail in an instant.

Imagine the taste of wild raspberries mashed with a hint of sweet berries, all wrapped up in subtle vanilla notes that add a creamy mouthfeel. That’s Absolut Raspberri.

With a bottle of Absolut Raspberri, you can bring a unique twist to any drink and wow your guests at your next gathering in the process. Win-win!

So, without further do, here are five cocktail favorites to make with a Raspberry-flavored twist:

Raspiroska


Let’s start off simple – no shakers, no blenders. Introducing the Raspiroska – a delicious Raspberry variation of the traditional Brazilian cocktail, the Caipiroska.

The Raspiroska
 is easy-to-make drink and is built directly in a Rocks Glass. To create this delicious Caipiroska variation, simply mix Absolut Raspberri, Simple Syrup, Crushed Ice, and fresh muddled Raspberries. And voila! What a transformation!

Here’s how to make a Raspiroska cocktail.

Absolut Raspberri Passion Star Martini


The Passion Star Martini (aka Pornstar Martini) really needs no introduction as it’s one of the most loved cocktails.

So, imagine how good it is when it’s given a raspberry twist, where the flavors of tart Passion Fruit, sweet Vanilla and Pineapple meet the sweet, juiciness Absolut Raspberri.

This Passion Star Martini variation follows the recipe for a Pornstar Martini but swaps Absolut Vanilia (Vanilla-Flavored Vodka) for Absolut Raspberri for a uniquely delicious twist.

Accompanied by a traditional shot of Champagne (or Prosecco) on the side, the Absolut Raspberri Passion Star Martini checks all the boxes and then some.

Check out our recipe for a Passion Star Martini with Absolut Raspberri.

Absolut Raspberri Sea Breeze

The Seabreeze is a legendary Vodka drink that belongs to the so-called “Cape Cod” family of drinks made with Cranberry. Here we shake things up by swapping Absolut Vodka for Absolut Raspberri. Raspberry. Grapefruit and Cranberry? Come on! Can things get juicier and fruitier? Surely not!

This Sea Breeze variation is simultaneously juicy, tart and fruity and a must-sip during summer. But hey, why wait for summer?

Tip! Given its popularity and ease to make, the Absolut Raspberri Sea Breeze cocktails is ideal for bigger gatherings and parties. Make a batch and save time!

Learn how to make an Absolut Raspberri Seabreeze.

Absolut Raspberri Cosmopolitan


Last but certainly by not last, we give the beloved Cosmopolitan cocktail a Raspberry makeover, substituting Absolut Citron (Lemon-Flavored Vodka) for Absolut Raspberri.

The Absolut Raspberri Cosmopolitan follows the same recipe for a classic Cosmo but adds the flavor of Raspberry instead of Lemon and is garnished with Fresh Raspberries instead of Orange Zest to really accentuate those delicious Raspberry notes.

Could this variation of the Cosmopolitan be your new favorite? We think it just could be! Discover our recipe for an Absolut Raspberri Cosmopolitan.

When whipping up easy-to-make juicy cocktails like the Screwdriver or the Greyhound, the difference between a good drink and a great one lies in the quality of the ingredients.

This is true for any cocktail, but it’s especially true when mixing two-ingredient drinks. With both components in the spotlight, there’s no room to hide imperfections. So, how do you make a good cocktail great?

Always Juice Your Own Fruits 

First thing’s first, as a rule of thumb, you should always use fresh pressed fruits in your drinks. So, in the case of The Screwdriver, skip the store-bought orange juice and juice your own fresh oranges instead. Trust us, once you taste a cocktail with fresh pressed juice, there’s no going back.

And when it comes to juicing fruits, there’s one tool that will take your home bartending skills to a whole other level and enable you to create drinks you thought you could only get a bar. The name of that tool? A centrifugal juicer.

Using a Centrifugal Juicer for Cocktails

A centrifugal juicer is a kitchen appliance that quickly and efficiently extracts juice from fruits and vegetables. It uses a high-speed spinning blade to grind produce into pulp. The pulp is then forced against a fine mesh filter, where centrifugal force separates the juice from the pulp. The juice flows through a spout, while the pulp is collected in a separate container.

What’s so special about a centrifugal juicer, you ask? Check out the ‘Absolut Drinks with Rico’ episode where Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador, makes a Greyhound using a centrifugal juicer. You’ll quickly discover what a centrifugal juicer can do to your drinks.

You’ll notice that the juice that comes out from the spout takes on a frothy, almost milkshake-y texture. This comes from the millions of tiny air bubbles that get whipped into the juice as the juicer runs. Talk about a silky mouthfeel!

It might sound crazy, but using a centrifugal juicer makes juice smell and taste just like the real thing—because it is! It’s as fresh as it gets. For example, orange juice will have that incredible aroma you get the moment you cut into a fresh orange, and the juice tastes exactly like the fruit itself. No preservatives, no additives – just pure juice.

Using a Blender to Make Cocktails

OK, so not everyone has a centrifugal juicer at home. But as Rico suggests, another way of juicing your fruits for your drinks is using a normal hand blender aka an immersion blender. “The result won’t be as good…but it’s a good alternative,” says Rico.

Place the fruit pieces into a tall, deep container to prevent splattering. Insert the immersion blender and blend at high speed for about 5 minutes or until it reaches a milkshake-like consistency. Move the blender up and down to ensure all the fruit pieces are thoroughly blended.

Again, while a hand blender won’t match the quality of a centrifugal juicer, it’s a handy trick that can significantly improve your homemade drinks. Don’t miss the essential bartending tools every home bartender needs.

OK, now that you know the importance of using fresh ingredients in your cocktails and how a centrifugal juicer can take your cocktail to bar-level heights, it’s time to make some drinks.

Head over to AbsolutDrinks.com to discover endless drink-spiration!

OK, so you’ve got yourself a bottle of Absolut Vanilia and you’re now looking for some drink-spiration. Well, you’re in for a treat! 

The fact is, there are countless ways you can mix Absolut Vanilia. Our delicious and popular Vanilla-Flavored Vodka adds a luxurious twist all your favorite cocktails with its creamy Bourbon Vanilla character and notes of Toffee and Caramel. 

Below we highlight five of our favorite easy-to-make cocktails made with Absolut Vanilia:
 

1. Pornstar Martini (aka Passion Star Martini)
It’s impossible to talk about Vanilla-Flavored Vodka, and specifically Absolut Vanilia, without mentioning the Pornstar Martini.  

Also known as the Passion Star Martini, this modern classic is bursting with flavors of tart Passion Fruit, sweet Pineapple and smooth Vanilla. 

Garnished with a Passion Fruit half and accompanied by a shot of Champagne (or Prosecco) to be enjoyed in between sips, the Pornstar Martini is one of the best and elaborate examples of how just how delicious Absolut Vanilia really is.

Make this drink for your guests at your next gathering, and you’ll earn instant legendary home bartender status.  

Discover how to make a Pornstar Martini.

2. Strawberry Night
What would happen if you mixed Absolut Vanilia, Passion Fruit Juice, Lemon Juice, and Passion Fruit Liqueur, and then garnished the drink with Fresh Strawberries, a Pineapple Wedge and a Vanilla Pod? A cocktail so delicious your taste buds won’t know what hit them.

Simultaneously sweet and tart, the Strawberry Night is another great example of Absolut Vanilia’s versatility.

Check out our Strawberry Night cocktail recipe. 

3. Vanilia Espresso Martini
As if sipping an Espresso Martini wasn’t decadent enough, along comes the Vanilia Espresso Martini.

It follows the same recipe for a classic Espresso Martini but substitutes Absolut Vodka for uses Absolut Vanilia and is also garnished with a Vanilla Pod.

Kahlúa coffee liqueur and Vanilla? Yeah, you don’t need us to tell you how good that combination is. Discover our recipe for the Vanilia Espresso Martini.

4. Absolut Vanilia Mule
The Moscow Mule is an easy to make cocktail, famous across the world. But with a Vanilla-Flavored twist, it’s a Moscow Mule like you’ve never had before.

This variation of a Moscow Mule follows the same recipe as the original but uses Absolut Vanilia instead of Absolut Vodka. Trust us, the combination of Ginger Beer, Fresh Lime Juice and Vanilla-Flavored Vodka works so well.

Learn how to make a Music Mule with Absolut Vanilia.
 

5. Apple Pie Shot

You know the saying that great things come in small packages? Well, it holds true for drinks too. The Apple Pie Shot boasts flavors of Vanilla, Apple, Cinnamon and Lemon. Coulkd there be anything better? Surely not. It’s just like a slice of Grandma’s Apple Pie. Mmm, mmm. 

Check out our recipe for an Apple Pie Shot. 

In 2025, Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador, sets his ambitions sky-high and jets out into the clouds to make a clarified version of a Paper Plane cocktail.   

That’s right, fasten your seatbelts, Rico takes the Paper Plane cocktail to new heights by creating a silky, clarified version of the drink that’s so smooth, it’s practically flying first class! 

In this episode of Absolut Drinks with Rico, Rico shows you how to make a batch of clarified Paper Plane cocktails, resulting in just under 1 liter (32 oz). In other words, you’ll have enough for the entire cabin and crew!  

What Does a Clarified Paper Plane Cocktail Taste Like? 

The Paper Plane is an equal parts cocktail made with Bourbon, Amaro (made from Grappa) and a red-orange Italian Bitter Aperitivo Liqueur. 

But Rico makes a clarified version of the Paper Plane cocktail. And the result? “Smooth, chocolate-y, orange-y with all that flavor coming from the Amaro,” shares Rico.

Sounds delicious, right? 

But What is a Clarified Cocktail?  

Ah, ha! Yes. Cocktail clarification is a technique used to enhance cocktails by removing impurities and unwanted particles. This process results in a smoother, clearer and more refined drink.  

One popular method of cocktail clarification is milk-washing, which you might remember seeing Rico do when he created Warhol’s Milk Punch, a cocktail especially created for the launch of the 2024 limited edition Absolut Warhol bottle.  

Absolut Warhol is, of course, the celebration of two icons: Andy Warhol and Absolut Vodka. Anyhow, back to the question. 

Milk-washing involves adding Full-Fat Milk to a cocktail mixture that contains acidic components such as citrus juice. The acid in the cocktail causes the Milk to curdle, forming Curds and Whey. The Curds trap impurities and particles, which can then be strained out, leaving behind a clarified liquid.  

This is what Rico does to create the clarified Paper Plane. Oh, and when you’re making this drink, we recommend you let the mixture sit in the refrigerator overnight before serving it. 

“Can you make a Paper Plane with Vodka?” 

That’s the question Rico asked himself.  

After making the clarified Paper Plane for Absolut Drinks with Rico, Rico swaps out the Bourbon and replaces it with Absolut Vodka to create a new concoction now known as the Absolut Paper Plane.  

But will the clarified Paper Plane soar with Vodka? Watch and find it!

Don’t forget to like and subscribe to Absolut Drinks on YouTube so you never miss a drink!