The 5 Best Mocktails for 2025

Looking for a sophisticated after-dinner drink or a refreshing mocktail to enjoy poolside?  

We’ve handpicked the five best alcohol-free twists on classic cocktails for 2025. So, if you’re hosting an elegant dinner party or putting together a backyard gathering in the sun, these drinks offer all the flavor and flair without the alcohol.

From zesty and invigorating to smooth and indulgent, there’s are mocktail for every palate. Best yet, they’re easy to make!

So, grab your cocktail shaker and get ready to mix up some delightful drinks that everyone can enjoy. 

In no particular order, here are the best Mocktails to drink in 2025:  

Virgin Espresso
You’ll be hard pressed (or should that be cold-pressed!) to find a more decadent and more perfect after-dinner Mocktail than the Virgin Espresso.

This alcohol-free version of the classic Espresso Martini blends the rich, bold flavor of cold Espresso Coffee with the sweetness of Vanilla Syrup. The end result is a bold, flavorful, and indulgent drink that’s guaranteed to satisfy.

Be sure to serve your drink in a Martini Glass and garnish with a couple of coffee beans for that authentic, sophisticated vibe. Here’s how to make a Virgin Espresso.  

Virgin Appletini 

An alcohol-free spin on the classic Appletini that hits the spot every time. Crisp Apple Juice mingles with zesty Lemon Juice and a touch of Simple Syrup to create a deliciously fresh Mocktail that balances sweet and tart perfectly.   

Serve in a Martini Glass and garnish with a couple of Granny Smith Apple slices, and you’ve got a drink that’s as stylish as it is delicious.  

Oh! Be sure to juice your own juice. Why? Because fresh ingredients always taste better. There’s really no way to compare bottled juice with fresh-pressed juice. Learn how to get more juice out of your fruits.  

Discover our Virgin Appletini recipe.

Gentle Sea Breeze 

The Sea Breeze is a classic cocktail known for its deliciously zesty, fresh and tangy flavors, where the tartness of Cranberry is complemented perfectly by the sharpness of Grapefruit. The same can be said of the Gentle Sea Breeze.

This alcohol-free version of the Sea Breeze combines equal parts Cranberry Juice and Grapefruit Juice, resulting in a Mocktail that’s every bit as delicious, zesty, fresh and tangy as the original. So refreshing! Here’s how to make a Gentle Sea Breeze.

Virgin Mary
The Bloody Mary has been a brunch staple for decades.  With its tangy Tomato base, zesty, spicy kick, and over-the-top garnishes, it’s one best savory cocktails around.  

And the good news is, by simply leaving out the Vodka, you can create an amazing alcohol-free version of a Bloody Mary that will wow your guests. Ready for this? It combines Tomato Juice, Worcestershire Sauce
, Lemon Juice
, Hot Sauce
, Horseradish
, Celery Salt
, and a Pinch Black Pepper, and is then garnished with fresh Celery and 
a Lemon Wedge. Oh yeah!

Yes, you guessed it – it drinks a lot like a delicious Vegetable Juice, making it Mocktail to drink during brunch. Check out our recipe to see how to make a Virgin Mary.  

Virgin Cosmopolitan
The Cosmopolitan is one of the most famous modern-day cocktails. Even though it rose to fame in 1990s, some 30 years later, it’s still every bit as popular today.  

The Virgin Cosmopolitan captures the essence of the original, sans the alcohol. It blends sweetened Cranberry Juice, freshly pressed Lime Juice, Orange Juice, Simple Syrup, and a couple of dashes of Orange Bitters, all garnished with a twist of Orange Zest. Sweet yet tart, this mocktail might just be THE perfect drink for any occasion. 

Discover our Virgin Cosmopolitan recipe. 

Looking for more alcohol-free drinks and mocktails? Visit AbsolutDrinks.com 

As the year winds down and the countdown to a new year begins, it’s time to start planning the ultimate New Year’s Eve celebration. So, if you’re hosting an intimate gathering or throwing a big bash, one thing is certain: you’ll need great drinks.

From classic cocktails to refreshing mocktails, we’ve got some tips and easy-to-make drink suggestions to ensure your your New Year’s Eve is one to remember.

New Year’s Eve is all about celebrating with friends and family, and the right drinks can make the night even more memorable. With a little preparation, you can create great, easy-to-make cocktails that will have everyone talking long after the confetti has settled.

Here’s to shaking and mixing a New Year’s Eve to remember!

Prepping in Advance

To make your life easier on the big night, consider prepping some elements in advance. You can pre-squeeze citrus juices, make simple syrups, and even batch-mix some cocktails so all you have to do is pour and serve. This way, you can spend more time enjoying the party and less time playing home bartender.

Easy-to-Make Cocktails

Easy-to-make cocktails are a lifesaver when you’re hosting. You want drinks that are quick to whip up but still taste and look great.

One of the best things about Vodka is its versatility. It pairs well with almost any flavor, making it the perfect base for a wide range of cocktails. From fruity concoctions to elegant martinis, Vodka can do it all.

Tip! If you can create a big batch of cocktails, it’ll make your evening run so much smoother. The Screwdriver, Sangria, Mojito and Mimosa (see below!) are all great cocktails to make in bulk.

Mocktail Magic

Of course, we can’t forget about the mocktails. When creating mocktails, think about using fresh ingredients like fruit juices, herbs, and spices. Use the same garnishes and glassware as your cocktails to keep the presentation consistent.

Garnishes Galore

Speaking of garnishes, don’t underestimate the power of presentation. We drink with our eyes and how a drink look is part of the experience.

A simple slice of citrus, a sprig of mint, or a few berries can take a cocktail or mocktail from ordinary to extraordinary. Plus, garnishes add a pop of color and make the drinks look prettier.

Don’t miss our video where Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador, Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan gives tips on how to make your drinks look pretty.

5 Cocktail and Mocktail Must-Haves for your NYE celebrations

Mimosa


Simple, classic, elegant. That’s the Mimosa. Simply pour chilled Champagne, Prosecco or Cava into a Champagne glass then add Orange Juice. Voila! You’ve got yourself a Mimosa. It’s THE perfect drink to count in the New Year.

Top tip! Save time by making a big batch of Mimosas.

Want to make a Mimosa? Discover how!

Pornstar Martini


It may not resemble a classic Martini, but make no mistake, with its unique and delectable mix of Absolut Vanilia, Passion Fruit Purée, and Vanilla Syrup, the Pornstar Martini has definitely paved its own way as a modern classic.

It’s presentation alone, and let’s not forget the side shot of Champagne, epitomizes what a NYE celebration should look like.

Tip! Be sure to prep your Vanilla Syrup and Passion Fruit purée in advance.

Discover how to make a Pornstar Martini.

Virgin Espresso

You’ll be hard pressed to find a more classic, more elegant cocktail than the Espresso Martini. The same can be said about the Virgin Espresso. A bold blend of cold Espresso Coffee, laced with Vanilla Syrup and Water. Oh-so-delicious.

Topped with two whole Coffee Beans for garnish, the Virgin Espresso offers a powerful caffeine kick and a jolt of sophistication, making it the ultimate non-alcoholic indulgence.

Here’s how to make a Virgin Espresso.

Cosmopolitan


Elegant and festive, the Cosmopolitan is one of the most iconic cocktails around. The drink’s stunning pink color alone says, “Let’s celebrate!”. Made with Vodka, Cranberry Juice, Triple Sec, and Lime Juice, the “Cosmo” is a symbol of modern cocktail culture. Every New Year’s celebration should include the Cosmopolitan.

Learn how to make a classic Cosmopolitan.

Virgin Cosmopolitan


The Virgin Cosmopolitan is right up there as one of the best mocktails around. A tantalizing mix of Cranberry Juice, Lime Juice, and Orange Juice, perfectly balanced with a touch of Simple Syrup and a hint of Orange Bitters.

Topped off with a zesty twist of Orange Zest, the Virgin Cosmo is a NYE must.

Discover our delicious Virgin Cosmopolitan recipe.

—

Looking for more cocktail and mocktail options? Visit AbsolutDrinks.com

Happy New Year, and cheers to a fantastic celebration!

As we approach the end of another incredible year, it’s time to look back at the cocktails you loved most in 2024.  

From Martinis to Seltzers, Shots to Dessert Cocktails, we’ve compiled a countdown of the top 10 most popular cocktails according to AbsolutDrinks.com 

Drum-roll, please!

10. Skinny Bitch

Simplicity never goes out of style and that was proof in 2024. Also known as a Vodka Soda, Vodka Highball and Vodka Seltzer, the Skinny Bitch is a classic, no-fuss, three-ingredient cocktail made with Vodka, Soda Water, and Fresh Lime Juice. And it’s perfect.

“Done right, it’s my go-to drink on a night out,” says Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador. Given its popularity this year, it’s safe to say Rico isn’t the only one. Learn how to make a Skinny Bitch.

9. Lemon Drop Shot 

It’s true what they say: good things come in small packages. And with the Lemon Drop Shot ranking as the ninth most popular drink in 2024, it’s clear many of you agree. 

The ultimate shot to serve on a tray at parties, the Lemon Drop Shot is lively, sweet and zesty, with Absolut Citron Lemon-Flavored Vodka deservedly taking center stage. Throwing a party this weekend? Here’s how to make a Lemon Drop Shot. 

8. Bloody Mary
The Bloody Mary has been a brunch staple for decades, so it’s no surprise to see that it was yet again one of the most popular cocktails in 2024.

With its tangy tomato base, zesty, spicy kick, and elaborate garnishes (read: over the top!), it’s arguably the best savory cocktail around. Speaking of garnishes, be sure to check out our article where we show you how to make your cocktails look pretty.  

Hosting brunch this weekend? Learn how to make a classic Bloody Mary cocktail.

7. White Russian

The White Russian is a decadent dessert cocktail that has captivated drink enthusiasts for decades…and it continued to do so in 2024. 

Famous for its smooth and velvety texture, the White Russian is a beloved after-dinner treat or a luxurious nightcap. Don’t miss our White Russian recipe. 

6. Pornstar Martini

Also known as the Passion Star Martini, this modern classic gains more fans each year. Made with Absolut Vanilla-Flavored Vodka, it’s winning flavors of Passion Fruit, Pineapple and smooth Vanilla are simply delectable.

Served with a shot of Champagne (or Prosecco) on the side, the Pornstar Martini is the epitome of celebration. Hey, we’ll toast to that! Learn how to make a Pornstar Martini.  

5. Vodka Mojito

In 2024, the Vodka Mojito outdid the traditional Rum-based Mojito in terms of popularity on AbsolutDrinks.com. You guys loved it! And we can’t blame you.

A crisp, and summery cocktail perfect for any outdoor gathering, when using Absolut Vodka to make your Vodka Mojito, you’re basically mixing Cuban zest with Swedish sophistication. Ooh La La! Discover our Vodka Mojito recipe. 

4. Vodka Cranberry

A two-ingredient cocktail so simple to make that Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan – Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador – can make it with his eyes closed. Don’t believe us? Watch the video below

But hey, the fact that it’s simple doesn’t mean it’s not great. And with this cocktail being the fourth most popular drink in 2024, it seems we’re not the only ones who know that. Learn how to make a Vodka Cranberry with this easy recipe.

3. Moscow Mule

An iconic flavor combination of Absolut Vodka, Ginger Beer, and Lime, served in an iconic Copper Mug. Yep, it’s iconic.

The Moscow Mule is as much about style as it is about flavor and its popularity remained unwavering in 2024, coming in at number three. Check out our Moscow Mule recipe.  

2. Cosmopolitan

Made with Absolut Citron Lemon-Flavored Vodka, the Cosmopolitan is one of the most famous modern-day cocktails. Even though it rose to fame in 1990s, some 30 years later, it’s still every bit as popular today.

Sophisticated, stiff and sexy, the tartness of the Cranberry Juice marries perfectly with the smooth citrus flavors of Absolut Citron. A timeless classic that you guys clearly love. Here’s how to make a classic Cosmopolitan cocktail.

1. Espresso Martini 

Year after year, the Espresso Martini holds its title as the most popular cocktail. In 2024, its fame soared even higher when Absolut and Kahlúa teamed up with singer Sabrina Carpenter. Known for her hit song “Espresso,” this collaboration amplified the cultural phenomenon of the Espresso Martini even more.

Now, raise your glass as we say cheers to the Espresso Martini – the most popular cocktail in 2024. Discover our Espresso Martini recipe.

So, you have your spirits, mixers, and bartending tools ready to go. You look at a recipe for a classic, easy-to-make Vodka Soda (aka Skinny Bitch) and it says, “1.5 parts Vodka, 5 parts Soda Water.” You pick up your Jigger, you look at your Measuring Cup, but alas, “part” is not listed.

When you look at cocktail recipes, you’ll often see that ingredients are measured in ounces or milliliters. So, what do you do when a recipe uses the term “parts” instead? This is a question that every beginner home bartender asks themselves.

The good news is that understanding parts is quite simple…that is, once you get your head around it. Whether you’re making a single drink or preparing for a party, understanding how to use parts will help you create perfectly balanced cocktails.

What is a Part in a Drink?

“Asking what a part is like asking how long a piece of string is,” says Rico, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador. “You guys decide. You, at home, decide what a part is. Whatever you say is one part, you go from that.” Hmmm, let’s dig a little deeper.

First and foremost, a part is simply a relative measurement. For example, when a recipe calls for one part of ingredient A and two parts of ingredient B, you add twice as much of ingredient B. This works for single drinks and large batches.

For example, if your measurement for a part is equal to a Shot Glass, to make a Vodka Soda that’s made with one-and-a-half parts Vodka and five parts Soda Water, you would measure one-and-a-half Shot Glasses of Vodka and five Shot Glasses of Soda Water. Simple, right?

One important thing to keep in mind is how much liquid your cocktail glassware can hold. You can then determine how big your part should be.

Measuring Parts with a Jigger

How big is a jigger you ask? Jiggers come in various sizes, with the most common or “standard” size being 1.5 oz (or 44ml) and 0.75 oz (or 22ml) per side.

If you want to see a great example that shows the use of parts, watch this video where Rico makes a White Russian. The White Russian follows the popular ‘two-one-one’ formula: two parts Cream, one part Absolut Vodka, and one part Kahlúa. In the video, instead of using a Shot Glass like the example we used above, Rico uses a Jigger to equal one part.

Following the drink’s ‘two-one-one’ formula, first he adds one-part Kahlúa (in this case, one Jigger), followed by one part of Absolut Vodka. Last, he adds two parts of Cream (e.g., two Jiggers). And there you have an example of measuring a cocktail using parts.

So, since Rico used a Jigger to equal one part, to make a White Russian, he used 1.5 oz/45 ml Kahlúa, 1.5 oz/45 ml Absolut Vodka, and 3 oz/90 ml Cream. So, why doesn’t the recipe just use milliliters or ounces instead of parts? Great question – read on!

The Benefit of Using Parts to Measure Cocktails

Parts can be more helpful than exact measurements. Let’s say, for example, you’re making a batch of White Russian cocktails for a party. In this case, the ratio of 2-1-1 and using parts is more helpful than milliliters and ounces.

While Rico used a Jigger to equal one part in the example above, he could have really used anything to equal one part – a Glass, a Bucket, a Bottle, a Cup – anything. So, when making a batch of cocktails, your part is going to be much bigger than a Jigger.

Let’s sum things up then. Whenever you’re faced with a recipe that uses parts, begin by determining your basic measurement—your “one part”—then divide or multiply the other ingredients to maintain the ratio. For example, 1 part can be one cup: pour two cups for 2 parts, and one-half cup for 1/2 part.

So, now you know what a part is when it comes to drink measurements!

Got further questions? Watch Rico explain cocktail ‘Parts’

In the latest episode of ‘Absolut Drinks with Rico’, Ricardo “Rico” Dynan, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador, shows you how to make a Bonafide British cocktail classic, the Bramble.

Created in London in 1984 by legendary London bartender Dick Bradsell who also invented the Espresso Martini, this modern classic is a British summer essential. However, the Bramble also works wonderfully during the Holiday season thanks to its delicious Blackberry flavors.

What Does a Bramble Cocktail Taste Like?

One of Rico’s favorite drinks, the Bramble cocktail is a tantalizing mix of sweet, tangy, sour, and fruity flavors.

The Bramble blends the delightful floral notes of Gin with the delicious Blackberry flavors from the Blackberry Liqueur, perfectly balanced by Sugar and Lemon Juice.

Well-balanced, fruity, elegant and extremely drinkable, let’s just say the Bramble never disappoints.

A Bramble Variation with Vodka

Of course, no episode of Absolut Drinks with Rico is ever complete without Rico making a vodka variation and answering the question, ‘Will It Vodka?’.

For this episode, Rico creates the Wild Berri Bramble – a Bramble variation that uses Absolut Wild Berri Vodka.

The Wild Berri Bramble follows the exact same recipe for a classic Bramble but substitutes the Gin for Absolut Wild Berri and is garnished with a Lemon half-moon instead of Lemon Zest. Absolut Wild Berri has the natural taste of freshly picked blueberries, blackberries and wild strawberries. Can you have too much berry? No, you cannot.

So, if you love berries and want to accentuate the Blackberry flavors of your Bramble, you’ve got to try mixing this one.

Here’s to a Merry Berry Holiday!

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

‘Tis the season for Holiday Cocktails, and we’ve rounded up seven holiday cocktail favorites that are easy to make and guaranteed to impress. 

From rich and indulgent to crisp and citrusy, each drink is a perfect blend of holiday magic and spirited cheer.  

Here you’ll find holiday cocktails with the flavors of the season: Cinnamon, Vanilla, Ginger, Blackberry, Nutmeg, Cranberry, and Chocolate Syrup. 

So, grab your cocktail shaker, let’s make these Holidays one to remember! 

1. Holiday Mule 

Served in a trademark Copper Mule Mug, the Holiday Mule is a festive fusion of Absolut Vodka with Cider, Ginger Beer, and a dash of Lemon Juice, topped off with a delightful Cinnamon Stick.

Yes, this holiday cocktail is guaranteed to have your taste buds caroling all season long.

Here’s how to make a Holiday Mule. 

2. Jingle Buck
If the Jingle Buck’s festive Rosemary and Cranberry garnish doesn’t put you in the Holiday spirit, we don’t what will.

Dazzle and delight your guests with the Jingle Buck – a merry mix of Absolut Vodka, zesty Ginger Ale, tangy Cranberry Juice, with a splash of Lime Juice. 

Learn how to make a Jingle Buck. 

3. Pumpkin Pie Martini

“Oh, the weather outside is frightful, but this Pumpkin Pie Martini is delightful.” Did somebody just say Pumpkin Pie in a Martini Glass?

Imagine the smooth sweetness of Absolut Vanilia, the creaminess of Milk, mixed with a dash of Cinnamon Syrup and a generous dollop of Pumpkin Purée.

Trust us, it really is every bit as good as it sounds.

Here’s how to make a Pumpkin Pie Martini. 

4. Hollis
Ho-ho-Hollis! The Hollis combines Absolut Vodka, Lillet Rouge, Rich Syrup, Chocolate Bitters and garnished with Orange Zest resulting in a gently spiced and wonderfully indulgent cocktail.

With the Hollis, we guarantee every sip will be merry and bright.

Let us show you how to make a Hollis cocktail.

5. Bramble 

One of Ricardo “Rico” Dynan’s (Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador) favorite drinks, the Bramble, is described by Rico as “a pure British summer sipper.” However, it works wonderfully during the holidays too thanks to its delicious Blackberry flavors.  

The Bramble is a classic cocktail that combines Beefeater Gin, Blackberry Liqueur, freshly squeezed Lemon Juice, and Simple Syrup, garnished with Lemon Zest and fresh Blackberries. Oh, by gosh, by golly, it’s good.  

Learn how to make a classic Bramble cocktail. 

6. Eggnog

A real winter warmer, Eggnog is a creamy concoction that combines the richness of Cognac with the smoothness of Milk and Cream, sweetened with a touch of Simple Syrup and topped with a sprinkle of Nutmeg.

Yes, you guessed it – it’s like a thick, festive Cognac Milkshake. We’ve got a recipe so delicious you’ll wonder why people drink Eggnog only during the holidays.  

Discover our Eggnog recipe.

7. Absolut Mistletoe

Deck the halls with lots of cranberry! Absolut Mistletoe mixes Absolut Vodka with Cranberry Juice, a hint of Lime Juice, and a splash of Lemon-Lime Soda, and is then garnished with a sprig of Red Currant to create a holly, jolly cocktail that’s sure to delight your guests.

Ready to mix? Check out our Absolut Mistletoe recipe. 

Looking for more holiday cocktail inspiration? Explore more holiday drinks 

The Singapore Sling is a classic Gin-based cocktail and “one of the most famous drinks on earth,” according to Rico, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador.

In the latest episode of ‘Absolut Drinks with Rico’, Rico shows you how to make a classic Singapore Sling. If you’ve seen a bartender mix one or even just looked at the recipe, you’ll notice the Singapore Sling ingredients list is quite extensive.

But despite the long list of ingredients, it’s actually an easy-to-make cocktail and one that’ll impress even the most discerning cocktail enthusiasts.

What does a Singapore Sling Taste Like?

The Singapore Sling resembles a fruity punch but with a sophisticated twist, making it more refined, complex and layered in flavor.

There are sweet and tangy notes from the Cherry Liqueur and Pineapple Juice with a citrusy twist courtesy of the Lime Juice, underlined the herbal notes from the Gin and French Herbal Liqueur.

In the video, Rico also shares on how to make the PERFECT Singapore Sling. For example, making your own Grenadine and using a Centrifugal Juicer with Fresh Pineapple to get your juice to standards you never thought possible.

A New Singapore Sling Variation

Of course, no episode of Absolut Drinks with Rico would be complete without Rico making a vodka variation and answering the question, ‘Will It Vodka?’.

Oh yes, for this episode Rico makes a Singapore Sling variation using Absolut Grapefruit (Grapefruit Flavored Vodka) to create what’s now known as The Swedish Sling.

Both drinks follow the same recipe except one uses Gin and the other uses Absolut Grapefruit, the latter being one of Rico’s own personal favorites.

Spoiler alert – Before You Watch the Video!

Now before you hit play, we need to prepare you for this one.

When asked how The Swedish Sling holds up against the Singapore Sling, Rico confesses, “Bartenders are going to hate me for saying it, but I kinda prefer it.”

OK, now you’re curious, huh? Watch the video and try it out for yourself!

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

Whether you’re new to cocktail making or a cocktail enthusiast, there’s one technique that every home bartender needs to know: double straining.  Tired of those ice shards or fruit pulp ruining your perfectly crafted drink? Then double straining is going to change the quality of your drinks.

Why Double Strain Your Cocktail?

First things first, why should you bother double straining your drinks? Double straining ensures that your drink is as smooth as desired and free of any unwanted bits.

Double straining helps you achieve that refined finish that’ll will give your drinks that bar-level standard you’re looking for.

Do You Need to Double-Strain Every Cocktail?

No, not every cocktail needs to be double-strained, since not even cocktail is a shaken cocktail.

Rico, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador, explains that when you shake drinks with citrus juice in a Cocktail Shaker, such as a Kamikaze or Cosmopolitan, “You create a very crisp, fresh and crunchy texture. Whereas if you stir a drink, you’re going to create a much smoother velvety texture.”

“Anything which is just pure alcohol (such as a classic Martini or Negroni), you might want to stir that just to get a velvety texture,” suggests Rico. “But when it comes to drinks with fruit juices and syrups, shake the hell out of them – smash them up. Get everything blended together and you’ll get a nice texture.”

“I’m not into shaking stuff like a Bloody Mary. I think you need to control the dilution, and you don’t want to really water in a Bloody Mary,” says Rico.

But for those cocktails that should be double-strained, read on.

3 Essential Bartending Tools for Double Straining

Before we dive into the actual technique of double straining, you’ll need to arm yourself with a few basic tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Cocktail Shaker: Whether you want to make a classic Margarita or an Espresso Martini a good Cocktail Shaker is essential. As Rico explains, when you’re holding a Shaker, you want to “Shake it, don’t tickle it”. So, give your cocktails a proper shake. Watch this video where Rico demonstrates how to use a Cocktail Shaker.
2.  Hawthorne Strainer: This is the strainer with the coiled spring that sits snugly over your shaker. It catches those larger ice chunks and muddled ingredients.
3.  Fine Mesh Strainer: This small, handheld strainer catches all the tiny bits that slip through the Hawthorne Strainer, ensuring your cocktail is smooth and both ice and pulp free.

Types of Cocktail Strainers

OK, so let’s break down the different types of strainers and their roles in the double straining process:

1. Hawthorne Strainer: As mentioned above, this strainer has a coiled spring that fits neatly over the top of your shaker. This allows you to attach this Strainer to the Shaker and just pour with one hand while holding the Strainer in place. It’s perfect for holding back larger pieces of ice and muddled fruit. The spring can be adjusted to control the flow of liquid, making it versatile for different cocktail styles.
2. Julep Strainer: This strainer looks like a large, perforated spoon. While it’s traditionally used for straining stirred cocktails like the classic Manhattan, it can also be used in place of a Hawthorne Strainer if you prefer.
3. Fine Mesh Strainer: This small, handheld strainer comes in various sizes are essential and function like a Tea Strainer. It catches all the fine particles that the Hawthorne Strainers or Julep Strainers miss. It’s essential for achieving that ultra-smooth finish.

Watch this video where Rico demonstrates the different strainer types.

How to Double Strain Your Cocktails

So, now the bottom you’ve been waiting for. Here’s a step-by-step guide to double straining cocktails:

1. Shake It Up: Start by shaking your cocktail as you normally would in your Cocktail Shaker. Make sure to give it a good, vigorous shake to properly mix and chill the ingredients. A good guide is to shake for a slow count of ten seconds until ice cold.
2. First Strain: Place your Hawthorne Strainer over the top of your Cocktail Shaker. Pour the cocktail through the strainer into your glass, catching any large ice chunks and muddled ingredients.
3. Second Strain: Hold your Fine Mesh Strainer over your serving glass. Pour the cocktail from the Shaker through the Mesh sSrainer, catching any remaining fine particles. This step ensures that your drink is free of any unwanted bits and pieces.
4. Serve and Impress: Pour your perfectly strained cocktail into a chilled glass, garnish as desired, and prepare to impress your guests with outstanding bar-quality drinks.

One final word – Double straining might take a bit of practice to get the hang of but it’s worth the pursuit. It’s a technique that will significantly elevate the quality of your drinks. Ready to get double straining? Explore our drink recipes here

You’re hosting Thanksgiving. You’ve got friends and family filling your home, and the feast is all set. But what would a Thanksgiving feast be without drinks to match? 

Below you’ll find five easy-to-make Thanksgiving cocktail, including an alcohol-free recipe that celebrates the flavors of the season – crisp Apple, fragrant Vanilla, warming Pumpkin, tart Cranberry, fiery Ginger, and aromatic Cinnamon.  

Grab your Shaker and let’s make it a Happy Thanksgiving! 

1. Vodka Cranberry 

OK, if there was just one ingredient synonymous with Thanksgiving, we’re sure you’ll agree it’s Cranberries. What would Thanksgiving be without Cranberry Sauce? Cranberries are native to North America and have been a staple at Thanksgiving feasts since the early days of the holiday.

So, what better cocktail to kick things off than the classic Vodka Cranberry? Learn how to make a Vodka Cranberry.

2. Apple Pie Shot 

The warmth and coziness of Thanksgiving in a shot. Smooth Vanilla-flavored Vodka, contrasted with tangy Apple Juice, zesty Lemon, topped with a generous sprinkle of Cinnamon and a slice of Fresh Apple. Sound delicious? Trust us, it is. We’ll toast to this one!

Here’s how to make an Apple Pie Shot.  

3. The Thanksgiving Punch 

Looking for an alcohol-free Thanksgiving cocktail that complements all the rich, savory flavors of the holiday feast? The Thanksgiving Punch is perfect.

If not just for the name itself, this festive alcohol-free punch is perfect to serve when you have a large number of guests coming for lunch or dinner. It combines Sweetened Cranberry Juice, zesty Lemonade, bubbly Ginger Ale, and is garnished with a Lemon Wedge. 

Discover our recipe for The Thanksgiving Punch.

4. Falling Leaves 

What cocktail captures the essence of the season better than the aptly named Falling Leaves? Absolut Mandrin provides a smooth, Orange-flavored base that complements the tartness of the Cranberry Juice.

The Cider adds a crisp, sweet note that pairs beautifully with the tangy Lemon Juice, while the Simple Syrup brings a hint of sweetness to balance it out. Finally, the Cinnamon Cane and Grapefruit Wedge give the cocktail a warm, spicy aroma and a zesty finish.

Learn how to make a Falling Leaves cocktail.

5. Pumpkin Pie Martini 

Ask anyone – it’s not Thanksgiving unless there’s Pumpkin Pie. Pumpkin Pie is an essential, which makes this delectable Pumpkin Pie Martini a must have for any Thanksgiving gathering. Who says you can’t drink your dessert?

There’s the warmth of Absolut Vanilia, luscious creamy Milk, a dash of Cinnamon Syrup and a generous dollop of Pumpkin Purée. Mmmm, mmmm. It really does taste like Pumpkin Pie in a Martini Glass! 

Check out our Pumpkin Pie Martini recipe. 

Looking for more Thanksgiving cocktail recipes? Visit AbsolutDrinks.com!

In the latest episode of ‘Absolut Drinks with Rico’, Rico shows you how to make the perfect New York Sour.

In the words of Rico himself, “It’s possibly one of the best cocktails ever invented.”

The New York Sour is a classic cocktail and very similar to the mid-19th century Whiskey Sour but adds a float of Claret (Dry Red Wine). And just wait until you see it! The New York Sour is a stunning drink with the deep red layer from the Claret elegantly contrasting the drink’s golden hue.

Tips on How to Make a New York Sour

In the video, Rico guides you step-by-step through making a classic New York Sour, sharing tips and tricks that will take your drink to cocktail bar-level standards.

Rico demonstrates the proper way to shake a sour for that perfect frothy head plus, he offers alternatives if you prefer not to use egg whites.

New York Sour Variation

As if learning how to make the perfect New York Sour wasn’t enough, while making the drink, Rico tackles the question of whether the drink will work with Vodka.

And the answer? Well, you’ll just have to watch to find out!

Alright, alright! Spoiler alert: Yes, it works with Vodka. In fact, Rico follows the New York Sour recipe but replaces the Rye Whiskey with Absolut Vodka to create…wait for it…the Stockholm Sour!

“With Absolut Vodka being the team player that it is, and born to mix, it makes all other flavors really, really stand out and the Claret Wine is really emphasized within this,” shares Rico.

But don’t just taste Rico’s word for it, try mixing it yourself. As Rico suggests, “Play around with it. At the end of the day, it’s your drink.”

How to serve a New York Sour

For both the New York Sour and the Stockholm Sour, Rico suggests serving it in a Rocks Glass with a single large Ice Block as it makes for a more elegant drinking experience. “It also means your drinks will stay colder and won’t dilute or become watery.” Now that’s an expert tip right there!

So, if you want to impress your friends with a delicious, visually stunning, layered drink, you can’t beat a New York Sour. Armed with Rico’s instructions, you can take your sours to new heights.

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