A classic cocktail gets a contemporary makeover!
Sometimes you can’t beat a classic cocktail. There’s a few great reasons why the simple, delicious Vodka Soda has been popular for generations – it’s easy to prepare, doesn’t take a lot of special know-how and tastes super refreshing. In honour of the winter that won’t end in my part of the world, I bring you my take on this eminently sippable beverage. The twist: blend flavoured white balsamic with the vodka before topping with soda. I recommend white balsamic as it will preserve the cocktail’s characteristic clarity whereas a dark balsamic will make it muddy-looking (though delicious). The balsamic adds a subtle richness of flavour without detracting from the drink’s signature crispness. I recommend using premium vodka; most of these are very smooth and ideal for a drink that tastes balanced and bright.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces (4 tablespoons/60 mL) vodka
- 1 ounce (2 tablespoons/30 mL) flavoured white balsamic*
- handful ice cubes
- soda water to top
- fruit to garnish (optional)
*I used a Cara-Cara orange and vanilla white balsamic and it was terrific; next up I’m going to try mango.
Method
- Put the vodka and balsamic in a cocktail shaker along with 3 – 4 ice cubes. Shake until blended and chilled, about 1 minute.
- Pour vodka-balsamic mixture and ice cubes into a lowball glass. Top with soda and garnish with fruit if desired.
- Close your eyes, take a sip and imagine you’re somewhere warm.
Makes 1 cocktail
Constantly Cooking with Paula Roy 
I almost wish I could take up drinking…
I am truly surprised your job does not drive you to drink some days!
It does, but I grew up seeing the adverse effects of alcohol, so I’ve vowed to abstain forever.
That’s impressive and laudable. Your family is fortunate for your strength and wisdom, I’m sure!
I just tried it with grapefruit white balsamic – delicious! Will be picking up more flavours of balsamic tomorrow!
That was my first test years ago as well (grapefruit white balsamic) and I loved it too. I need to restock as I think this will be my go-to cocktail all spring long! Glad you liked it!
Now, my favourite is Coconut White Balsamic Vinegar – it screams summer! I’m getting my vinegars at the Unrefined Olive in Kanata – send them your recipe, and they’ll be out of vinegar in no time! Who came up with vodka and vinegar? Genius!
Ha – I actually do get my vinegars from the Unrefined Olive! I’ll pester the owner to share the recipe on her FB page – great idea! It does seem like an odd combo but it really does work so well. I cannot wait to try your newest effort! Mmmmmmm …. coconut!!!