The Raspberry Vodka Sour brings together tart lemon, juicy raspberry, and crisp vodka in a bold yet balanced cocktail. This fruit-forward drink is as easy to make as it is to enjoy, offering a beautiful pop of color and a smooth, tangy sip. Whether served on a sunny afternoon or as a refreshing option at your next gathering, this drink hits the sweet spot between sour and smooth. Add a splash of club soda if you’re after a lighter twist with a bit of fizz.

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Tasting Notes

The Raspberry Vodka Sour is crisp, bright, and fruit-forward with a nice balance of tart lemon and sweet raspberry. The vodka provides a clean backbone, letting the raspberry syrup and citrus flavors shine through. Fresh raspberries add a bit of texture and aroma, while a splash of club soda if used introduces a light effervescence. The result is a drink that’s refreshing and punchy with a juicy, tangy profile. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a cocktail that’s neither too sweet nor too sharp, offering a smooth sip with just enough bite.

Equipment and Glassware

To make a Raspberry Vodka Sour, you’ll need a cocktail shaker, a jigger for accurate measurements, and a strainer. A fine mesh strainer is optional but useful if you want to keep raspberry seeds out of the final pour. Use a rocks glass or a short tumbler to serve these sturdy, lowball-style glasses work well with drinks served over ice. A bar spoon can also come in handy if you’re adding soda water and want to give it a gentle stir. Overall, the setup is simple and suited for any home bar.

Ingredients

2 oz vodka
1 oz raspberry syrup
1 oz lemon juice
A handful of fresh raspberries
Club Soda optional

Instructions

Put the vodka, raspberry syrup, lemon juice, and some ice in a shaker.
Shake it all up until it’s super cold.
Strain it into your glass filled with ice.
Top it off with a few fresh raspberries and a splash of soda water if you like it fizzy.
Enjoy your awesome Raspberry Vodka Sour!

Pro Tips

Use fresh lemon juice for the best tartness and balance.
Make homemade raspberry syrup for deeper flavor.
Double strain to avoid pulp or seeds in your glass.
Muddle a few raspberries in the shaker for more fruit flavor.
Chill your glass in advance to keep the drink colder longer.
If adding soda water, stir gently after pouring.
Taste before serving adjust syrup or lemon to balance sweetness and acidity.

When to Serve

This Raspberry Vodka Sour fits well in warm-weather settings like brunches, summer parties, or outdoor gatherings. It also works as a cheerful option for casual dinners or happy hour. Its fruity profile makes it approachable for those who don’t usually reach for spirit-forward drinks. Serve it when you’re looking for something refreshing, easygoing, and colorful. The bright appearance and bold flavor make it a hit for spring and summer occasions, but it can also serve as a flavorful twist on a sour-style cocktail year-round.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Vodka

Belvedere
Tito’s Handmade Vodka
Absolut
Ketel One
Grey Goose
Smirnoff No. 21
Stolichnaya

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