Depth Charge

The Depth Charge is a straight-to-the-point combo of vodka and lager that’s all about impact. Whether you’re kicking off a party or wrapping up the night, this drop-style drink delivers a rush with minimal fuss. It’s not about subtle flavors or fancy technique it’s about a quick jolt that gets the job done. Cold beer helps mellow the sharp edge of vodka, while the shot-style presentation adds a fun, high-energy twist.

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Tasting Notes

The Depth Charge is bold, bracing, and built for quick impact. With the smooth neutrality of vodka crashing into the crisp, slightly bitter profile of a cold lager, the result is immediate and intense. The beer’s carbonation softens the vodka’s bite slightly, while still preserving the sharp, boozy character of the shot. Depending on the beer chosen, you may get malty or hoppy undertones that play off the vodka’s clean base. This is not a drink meant for subtlety it’s punchy, straightforward, and designed for fast enjoyment rather than quiet sipping.

Equipment and Glassware

For a proper Depth Charge, you’ll only need two basic items: a pint glass and a standard shot glass. The pint glass holds the beer and serves as the main drinking vessel, while the shot glass holds the vodka until it’s dropped. Make sure the shot glass fits comfortably within the pint glass without being too wide or tall. No shaker, strainer, or garnish is needed this is all about simplicity. You may want a bar towel handy for potential splash-back when the shot hits the beer, especially if serving more than one.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz vodka
• 16 oz lager beer

Instructions

• Pour the lager into a pint glass.
• Pour the vodka into a shot glass.
• Gently drop the filled shot glass into the beer.
• Drink immediately while it fizzes and blends.

Pro Tips

• Chill both the vodka and the lager ahead of time.
• Use a sturdy pint glass and standard-weight shot glass to avoid breakage.
• Drop the shot gently to avoid excess foam or splashing.
• Drink immediately after the drop for best taste and experience.
• Try flavored vodka for a twist (e.g., citrus or pepper).
• Avoid high-foam beers like wheat ales they’ll overflow.
• Rinse the shot glass before use to reduce clinging bubbles.
• Use a towel under the glass if serving in a casual setting.
• Keep the vodka pour accurate too much and it may not sink right.

When to Serve

The Depth Charge is ideal for parties, casual get-togethers, or celebratory moments when the vibe is high-energy. It’s often served during sports games, bachelor parties, or group events where toasts and fast drinking are part of the fun. Because it’s meant to be consumed quickly, it’s not suited for formal or slow-paced occasions. It can also be used as a novelty drink to mark a moment during the night a way to kick off a round or mark a milestone with a punch of flavor and energy.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Vodka:
  • Tito’s Handmade
  • Absolut
  • Smirnoff
  • Skyy
  • Svedka
• Lager Beer:
  • Budweiser
  • Pabst Blue Ribbon
  • Modelo Especial
  • Miller High Life
  • Coors Banque

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• Citrus Vodka Crush
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