Looking for a crisp and effortless cocktail that’s perfect for warm days or casual entertaining? This Vodka Press is your answer.
A light, bubbly mix of vodka, club soda, and lemon-lime soda, it delivers a refreshing balance of clean spirit and gentle citrus fizz without being overly sweet.
It’s ideal for brunches, happy hours, or an easy evening sip. Serve it over ice with a lime wedge, or dress it up with fresh herbs like mint or basil for a modern twist.
Vodka Press Drink
Equipment
- Highball or Collins glass
- Jigger or shot glass (for measuring)
- Bar spoon or regular spoon (for stirring)
- Ice cube tray or ice maker
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 2 oz club soda
- 2 oz lemon-lime soda Sprite or 7UP
- Ice cubes
- Lime wedge or lemon slice
Instructions
- Fill your glass with ice:Start by filling a highball or Collins glass to the top with ice cubes.
- Add vodka:Pour 1.5 oz of vodka over the ice.
- Add sodas:Top with 2 oz of club soda and 2 oz of lemon-lime soda.
- Gently stir:Use a bar spoon or regular spoon to stir gently—just enough to combine without losing the bubbles.
- Garnish and serve:Add a lime wedge or lemon slice for a zesty finish. Serve immediately.
Video
Notes
Cooking Tips
- Adjust the sweetness: Prefer it less sweet? Go heavier on club soda and lighter on lemon-lime soda.
- Make it fancy: Toss in fresh mint, cucumber slices, or a splash of cranberry juice for extra flair.
- Chill everything: For peak refreshment, chill your glass and ingredients before assembling.
- Use flavored vodka: Elevate your press with citrus, cucumber, or berry vodka for a simple twist.
Why is it called a “Press”?
The name “Press” comes from “Presbyterian,” a classic cocktail style that originally combined whiskey with club soda and ginger ale.
Over time, the term “Press” became shorthand for a two-soda combination — usually one fizzy and one sweet — mixed with a spirit.
In the case of the Vodka Press, it’s vodka with club soda (dry) and lemon-lime soda (sweet), giving it that characteristic refreshing and balanced profile.
Low-Calorie Appeal
One of the biggest reasons the Vodka Press is popular is that it’s often seen as a “skinny cocktail” — meaning lower in calories and sugar compared to more syrupy drinks like margaritas or daiquiris.
You can even make it lighter by using diet lemon-lime soda or skipping it altogether and going full club soda with a splash of citrus juice.
Popularity in Social Settings
The Vodka Press is very popular in casual bar settings, especially in the Midwest and certain parts of the U.S.
It’s a go-to for people who want a drink that’s not too strong, not too sweet, and very easy to sip on. It’s also incredibly easy to order in bars with minimal ingredients and bartenders will make this cocktail quickly.
Customizable Base
Since vodka is a neutral spirit, the Press acts as a great base drink for customization. Some people enjoy adding:
- Fresh cucumber or basil for spa-water vibes
- Cranberry juice or grapefruit juice for a fruitier twist
- Infused vodka (citrus, berry, jalapeño, or herb flavors)
Perfect Day-to-Night Drink
Unlike heavy cocktails like creamy or whiskey-based drinks, a Vodka Press works well any time of day. It’s light enough for day-drinking events like brunch or poolside lounging, but also clean and crisp enough for an evening cocktail hour.
Great Hydration Balance
Because it’s part club soda, the Vodka Press tends to be more hydrating than most alcoholic beverages. That doesn’t mean you should skip your water, but it’s less dehydrating than cocktails that are mostly hard liquor and sugar.
