Vodka Soda

By Culiora

Quality vodka over plenty of ice with well-chilled soda water, stirred once and flavoured with citrus, mint, fresh berries or thin cucumber slices.

• Servings: 1
• Prep time: 5 min
• Total time: 5 min

Ingredients

• 5 cl quality vodka (preferably premium, e.g. Absolut, Belvedere, or Grey Goose)
• 10–15 cl club soda (well chilled)
• Ice (large, clear ice cubes if possible)
• Fresh lime or lemon (wedge or zest)
• Fresh mint
• Fresh berries (e.g. raspberries or blueberries)
• Cucumber (thin slices)

Instructions

1. Fill a glass (a highball or large wine glass) with plenty of ice.
2. Pour the vodka directly over the ice.
3. Gently add the club soda to preserve the effervescence.
4. Stir gently, just a single turn.
5. Squeeze a touch of citrus over the top and drop in the peel or a wedge.
6. Add your choice of garnish, such as mint, berries, or cucumber.
7. Serve immediately while the drink is thoroughly chilled and crisp.
8. Tip: The quality of the vodka makes a significant difference in such a simple drink. Use properly chilled club soda for maximum crispness. Large ice cubes melt slower and dilute the drink less. Try gently bruising the mint before adding it to release more flavor.