Paul Kushner
The Clementine Vodka Smash is a bright, citrus-forward cocktail that’s equal parts refreshing and aromatic. Juicy clementine segments are muddled with lemon juice, honey syrup, and fresh thyme to create a vibrant, herbaceous base bursting with natural sweetness and zest. Vodka adds a clean, crisp backbone, while a splash of soda water brings a bubbly finish that lifts every flavor. Served over ice and garnished with a sprig of thyme or a clementine slice, this cocktail is a seasonal delight—perfect for spring brunches, outdoor gatherings, or any time you crave a light, garden-fresh sipper with a touch of elegance.
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Tasting Notes
The Clementine Vodka Smash offers a bright, zesty burst of citrus rounded out with mellow honey sweetness and a hint of herbal depth. Juicy clementines take center stage, delivering a fresh, vibrant flavor that pairs beautifully with the smooth, clean vodka base. Lemon juice adds a tart edge, balanced by the natural sweetness of honey syrup. Fresh thyme lends an aromatic, earthy note that elevates each sip. Topped with sparkling soda water, the drink finishes crisp and effervescent—light, layered, and exceptionally refreshing. It’s a vibrant cocktail that feels both garden-fresh and celebratory with every fizzy, citrus-kissed taste.
Equipment and Glassware
Crafting a Clementine Vodka Smash is a simple and rewarding process with just a few key tools. You’ll need a muddler to gently crush the clementine segments and thyme, releasing their juices and oils. A cocktail shaker helps mix the ingredients with precision, while a fine mesh strainer ensures a smooth pour, free of pulp or herb bits. A jigger helps with accurate measurements for balanced flavor. Serve this cocktail in a double old-fashioned or rocks glass for a rustic, laid-back look, and finish with a sprig of thyme or a clementine slice for garnish and a pop of visual appeal.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 0.5 oz honey syrup
- 0.75 oz lemon juice
- 1 clementine, peeled
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Soda water (to top)
- Garnish: thyme sprig or clementine slice
Instructions
- Muddle: In a shaker, muddle the clementine segments with thyme and honey syrup until the fruit is well crushed and aromatic.
- Shake: Add vodka, lemon juice, and ice. Shake well to chill and combine.
- Strain: Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top: Add a splash of soda water to taste.
- Garnish: Garnish with a fresh thyme sprig or a slice of clementine.
Pro Tips
- For the freshest flavor, use extra ripe clementines—look for ones that feel heavy for their size and have a rich citrus aroma.
- When muddling, avoid over-crushing the thyme to prevent bitterness; a light press is enough.
- If you don’t have honey syrup, make it by combining equal parts honey and hot water, stirring until smooth.
- Adjust lemon juice to taste—more for tang, less for sweetness.
- For a refined twist, rim the glass with citrus sugar or use a flavored soda water like orange or lemon.
- Chill your glass beforehand to keep the drink crisp from first sip to last.
When to Serve
The Clementine Vodka Smash is ideal for sunny afternoons, early spring brunches, or holiday gatherings when citrus is in peak season. Its refreshing profile makes it perfect for warm weather, garden parties, and casual get-togethers. With its burst of citrus and delicate herbal notes, it’s also a wonderful choice for festive occasions like New Year’s or Easter. Serve it as a signature cocktail at a daytime shower, or enjoy it solo as a relaxing treat. Bright, cheerful, and effortlessly elegant, it’s a crowd-pleasing option whenever you want a drink that feels both cozy and refreshing.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- To get the most out of this cocktail, opt for a smooth, clean vodka that lets the clementine and thyme shine.
- Tito’s Handmade Vodka offers an excellent balance of purity and subtle flavor, while Ketel One and Belvedere are also premium options with a refined finish.
- For a subtle citrus boost, you might also consider using a clementine- or orange-infused vodka such as Absolut Mandrin.
- As for honey syrup, local or raw honey often delivers more nuanced floral notes than store-bought varieties.
- Use Perrier or Topo Chico as soda water for consistent bubbles and a crisp, refreshing finish.
Similar Cocktails
- Peach Collins
- Cherry Spritz
- Pear & Elderflower Collins
- Hot Honey Aperol Spritz
- Electric Raspberry Splash
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 0.5 oz honey syrup
- 0.75 oz lemon juice
- 1 clementine peeled and segmented
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Soda water to top
- Garnish: thyme sprig or clementine slice
Instructions
- Muddle: In a shaker, muddle the clementine segments with thyme and honey syrup until the fruit is well crushed and aromatic.
- Shake: Add vodka, lemon juice, and ice. Shake well to chill and combine.
- Strain: Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top: Add a splash of soda water to taste.
- Garnish: Garnish with a fresh thyme sprig or a slice of clementine.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Gently slap the thyme sprig before garnishing to enhance its aroma.
- Adjust honey syrup to taste depending on how sweet your clementine is.
- Chill the soda water beforehand to keep the fizz crisp.
