Cocktails
Vodka Soda
Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic11.3% ABV3 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatestirred drink
Why: 3 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon
Best for: Caviar, Salty Food
Ingredients & Tools
BaseCitrusMixer
- 1 1/2 ozVodkaBase
- 4 ozSoda WaterMixer
- 1 tspLime JuiceCitrus
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon
How to Make It
StirBuild
- Build in a highball glass over ice.BuildBuild steps combine ingredients directly without heavy aeration.
- Add vodka and soda water, then stir gently with lime juice.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVeganVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust 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 โ cut back on other flavourings if you use one.CitrusLemon juice can replace lime but it is sharper and less floral โ the drink will taste brighter and slightly more tart. Grapefruit juice works if you want something more bitter. Whichever you use, add a little at a time and taste as you go.BubblesSoda water is neutral and clean โ it adds fizz without flavour. Tonic water is bitter and slightly sweet, which changes the balance noticeably. Ginger beer is spiced and punchy; ginger ale is milder and sweeter. These are not interchangeable โ pick the one that suits the drink's flavour direction.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Vodka Soda?
- The Vodka Soda is a cocktail made with 3 ingredients. It has an ABV of approximately 11.3%. A standard serving contains approximately 103 calories.
- What does a Vodka Soda taste like?
- Vodka Soda has a flavour profile featuring Sparkling, Citrus, Lime, Sweet. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Vodka Soda?
- Vodka Soda 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 Soda?
- The Vodka Soda has an ABV of approximately 11.3%. That's approximately 1.06 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 103 calories, 0.1g sugar, 0.4g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Vodka Soda typically served?
- Vodka Soda works well as an aperitif, at dinner parties or as a casual evening drink. The flavour profile suits a range of social occasions.
- What drinks are similar to a Vodka Soda?
- If you enjoy Vodka Soda, 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 Soda at home?
- Yes. The Vodka Soda uses 3 ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home. 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 Soda 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.

