Skip to main content
WhatDrink logo
Cocktails

Vodka Lemon

Served in a Highball Glass

Reviewed by , Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic16.4% ABV4 ingredientsexcellent recipe
130 cal16.4% ABV1.20 US std1.8g sugar4.8g carbsAbout these numbers

Difficulty

Moderate

Why: 4 ingredients, requires bar spoon

Best for: Caviar, Salty Food, Seafood Dinner

Ingredients & Tools

BaseCitrusMixerGarnish
  • 5 clVodkaBase
  • 7 clLemon JuiceCitrus
  • 1 SliceLemon PeelGarnish
  • cubesIceMixer
Tools:bar spoon

How to Make It

  1. The vodka lemon is prepared directly in a highball glass or in a large tumbler: put 6-7 ice cubes in the glass, pour the vodka, lemonade and mix with a bar spoon.
  2. Finally decorate with a slice of lemon and, if you prefer, add a few mint leaves.
  3. Your vodka lemon is ready to be served.

Best For

Seafood DinnerSummer

Food Pairings

CaviarSalty FoodSeafood

Diet & Lifestyle

Gluten-FreeVeganVegetarian

Make it your way

Adjust this drink

Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Make it simplerTry drinks with three ingredients or fewer.Match it with foodFind food pairings that complement the flavors in this drink.

Swap notes

Base spiritVodka is the most forgiving swap. A neutral vodka keeps the drink clean. Flavoured vodkas add character but change the balance — cut back on other flavourings if you use one.CitrusCitrus juice changes acidity, while citrus peel or twist mainly changes aroma. Lemon is sharp and bright, lime is sharper and more aromatic, orange is sweeter, and grapefruit adds bitterness. If you swap citrus, adjust sweetness slowly.

Explore next

Cocktail recipesMocktail alternativesFood pairingsFlavors

Rate this recipe

Frequently asked questions

What is a Vodka Lemon?
The Vodka Lemon is a cocktail made with 4 ingredients, traditionally served in a Highball Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 16.4%. A standard serving contains approximately 130 calories.
What does a Vodka Lemon taste like?
Vodka Lemon has a flavour profile featuring Lemon, Citrus, Tart. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
What food goes well with a Vodka Lemon?
Vodka Lemon pairs well with Caviar, Salty Food, Seafood. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
How strong is a Vodka Lemon?
The Vodka Lemon has an ABV of approximately 16.4%. That's approximately 1.20 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 130 calories, 1.8g sugar, 4.8g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
When is a Vodka Lemon typically served?
Vodka Lemon is a popular choice for Seafood Dinner, Summer. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
What drinks are similar to a Vodka Lemon?
If you enjoy Vodka Lemon, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
Can I make a Vodka Lemon at home?
Yes. The Vodka Lemon uses 4 ingredients, making it straightforward to prepare at home. You will need a Highball Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Vodka Lemon with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.