Stravinsky

The Stravinsky is light, fruity, and has just enough depth to keep things interesting. It blends vodka with fresh lemon, sweet vanilla syrup, and a couple of dashes of aromatic bitters. Strawberries bring color and a soft fruitiness, while soda water keeps everything fresh and easy to sip. This is a great drink when you want something refreshing but not boring. It’s easy to make, crowd-friendly, and works well for warm-weather gatherings or any time you’re looking for a simple drink with a touch of flavor and fizz.

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Tasting Notes

This Stravinsky cocktail opens with fresh strawberry and bright lemon, followed by smooth vanilla sweetness. Vodka keeps it clean and neutral, while the bitters give just enough spice to round things out. Soda water lightens the drink and adds a gentle fizz. It’s fruit-forward without being sugary, and the vanilla softens the citrus edge. The bitters cut through to keep the drink balanced. It finishes crisp, with a mix of tart fruit and warm spice that lingers slightly. This is a great option when you want something light and refreshing but still layered with flavor.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a cocktail shaker, jigger, muddler, and a fine mesh strainer if you want a smoother texture. A citrus press makes the lemon juice quick to prep. Use a tall glass like a Collins or highball to leave room for soda and ice. If you want to serve it up, a large coupe works too. A long spoon is handy for stirring once the soda is added. Pre-chilling your glass or ice can help keep the drink colder, especially if you’re serving it outdoors or in warmer weather.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• ¾ oz lemon juice
• ¾ oz vanilla syrup
• 2 dashes aromatic bitters
• 2–3 strawberries
• Soda water, to top
• Extra strawberry or lemon slice, for garnish

Instructions

• In a shaker, muddle the strawberries with lemon juice and vanilla syrup.
• Add vodka, bitters, and ice. Shake well until chilled.
• Double strain into a tall glass filled with ice.
• Top with soda water and stir gently.
• Garnish with a fresh strawberry or a lemon slice.

Pro Tips

• Use ripe strawberries for better flavor and color.
• Double strain to keep seeds out of the glass.
• Chill your soda water so it doesn’t melt the ice too fast.
• Add more bitters if you like a bolder finish.
• Try sparkling wine instead of soda for a stronger version.
• Use vanilla bean syrup if you want a richer taste.
• Muddle gently don’t over-crush the fruit.
• Garnish with both strawberry and lemon for full aroma.
• Stir soda in gently to keep the bubbles.
• Serve immediately this one doesn’t sit well for long.

When to Serve

The Stravinsky is perfect for spring and summer, especially during the daytime. It’s ideal for brunch, outdoor parties, garden gatherings, or anytime you want something light but layered. It’s a fun pick when you’re serving guests who want flavor without heaviness. Because it’s low in alcohol and high in refreshment, it makes a great welcome drink or first cocktail of the evening. The name gives it a little flair, too something just a bit different without being fussy.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Vodka:

• Tito’s Handmade (clean and balanced)
• Absolut (easy to find and neutral)
• Grey Goose (smooth with a soft finish)

Vanilla Syrup:

• Monin Vanilla Syrup (light and balanced)
• Torani Vanilla (classic café-style)
• Homemade (1:1 sugar and water with vanilla bean or extract)

Aromatic Bitters:

• Angostura (classic and reliable)
• Fee Brothers (milder, slightly sweet)
• Peychaud’s (lighter and more floral)

Similar Cocktails

• The Sunny Getaway
• Honey Cucumber Vodka Lemonade
• Aperol Lemon Drop
• Blue Long Island Iced Tea
• Purple Easter Martini