How to Shake a Cocktail Shaker like a Pro

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 in your hand is more than just a delicious raspberry-flavored vodka — it’s a versatile addition to your home bar that lets you put a unique twist on classic cocktails in an instant.

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

Absolut Raspberri brings something different to every glass. Here are five classic cocktails to make with Absolut Raspberri:

1. Raspiroska


Let’s start simple – no shakers, no blenders, so strainers. The Raspiroska is a raspberry twist on the Caipiroska, the Brazilian cocktail classic, and it’s built directly in a rocks glass with no fuss whatsoever.

Simply muddle fresh raspberries with simple syrup, add Absolut Raspberri and top with crushed ice. Fresh, fruity and ready in minutes.

Watch Rico and Hedda Bruce (Tjoget) show you how to make a Raspiroska!

2. Absolut Raspberri Passion Star Martini


The Passion Star Martini – also known as the Pornstar Martini – really needs no introduction. One of the most loved cocktails in the world, it’s iconic for good reason.

Now imagine it with a raspberry twist, where the tart passion fruit, sweet vanilla and pineapple of the classic meet the sweet, juicy character of Absolut Raspberri.

Served with a shot of champagne or Prosecco on the side, the Absolut Raspberri Passion Star Martini delivers everything the original does and then some.

To make it, follow the recipe for a Passion Star Martini but simply swap Absolut Vanilia for Asbolut Raspberri.

3. Absolut Raspberri Sea Breeze

The Sea Breeze is a legendary vodka cocktail that belongs to the so-called “Cape Cod” family of drinks – a group of classics built around cranberry juice. Here, Absolut Vodka is swapped for Absolut Raspberri, adding a bold raspberry character to the already fruity combination of grapefruit and cranberry.

Simultaneously juicy, tart and fruit-forward, the Absolut Raspberri Sea Breeze is a natural summer drink – though honestly, it works any time of year. Here’s how to make an Absolut Raspberri Seabreeze:

1. Grab a rocks glass and fill it with ice cubes,
2. Measure and add 45 ml Absolut Raspberri, followed by 80 ml Cranberry Juice, and 45 ml Grapefruit Juice.
3. Stir gently and garnish with a Lime Wheel. Sip and enjoy!

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

4. Absolut Raspberri Cosmopolitan


The Cosmopolitan gets a raspberry makeover! Absolut Citron, our versatile lemon-flavored vodka, is swapped for Absolut Raspberri, bringing a bold berry character to one of the most iconic cocktails in the world.

The Absolut Raspberri Cosmopolitan follows the classic Cosmo recipe but replaces the lemon flavor with raspberry and swaps the orange zest garnish for fresh raspberries, accentuating the berry flavor from the first sip to the last.

To make it, check out the recipe for an Absolut Cosmo but simply substitute Absolut Citron for Absolut Raspberri. Garnish with some fresh raspberries for the ultimate finish.

5. Absolut Raspberri Mule

Few cocktails are as instantly recognizable as the Moscow Mule — vodka, ginger beer and fresh lime juice, served ice cold in a copper or stainless steel mug.

The Absolut Raspberri Moscow Mule keeps everything that makes the original great and adds Absolut Raspberri, bringing a bold, fruit-forward berry twist. Check out the recipe for an Absolut Raspberri Mule!

Watch Rico show you how to make the Absolut Raspberri Mule!

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.  

Check out the recipe for a Passion Star 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.

Here’s how to make it:

1. Grab a cocktail shaker, then measure and add 30 ml Absolut Vanilia.
2. Measure and add 35 ml passion fruit juice, 20 ml lemon juice, 20 ml passion fruit liqueur and 10 ml simple syrup.
3. Fill the shaker with ice.
4. Shake well until perfectly cold.
5. Strain into a Collins glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with 4 fresh strawberries, a pineapple wedge and a vanilla pod. Sip and enjoy!

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 Absolut Vanilia and garnished with a vanilla pod.

Kahlúa coffee liqueur and vanilla? Yeah, you don’t need us to tell you how good that combination is.

Simply follow the recipe for a classic Espresso Martini but use Absolut Vanilia instead.

4. Absolut Vanilia Mule
The Moscow Mule is an easy to make cocktail, famous all 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.

Follow the recipe for a classic Mule then simply swap Absolut Vodka for 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. Could there be anything better? Surely not.

It’s just like a slice of Grandma’s famous apple pie. Mmm, mmm. Check it out below!

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! 

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.

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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!

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