Vodka Tonic [The Clean Buzz Remix]

Crisp, clean vodka cocktail with quality tonic that highlights the purity of premium vodka. This is sophisticated simplicity that’s perfect for any occasion.

Makes

Serves 1

Total Time

2 min (2 min prep)

Ingredients

For the Cocktail:
2 oz (60ml) premium vodka (craft distilled preferred)
4-6 oz (120-180ml) quality tonic water (low sugar, real quinine)
1/2 oz (15ml) fresh lime juice
Ice cubes or large ice sphere

For Garnish:
1 lime wheel
1 cucumber slice (1/4 inch thick)
Optional: fresh mint sprig

Make it Good For The Gut (Optional)

Choose tonic water with natural quinine and no artificial sweeteners for better digestive health. Add fresh mint leaves for digestive support and anti-inflammatory benefits. Include a thin slice of fresh ginger for digestive enzymes and gut-soothing properties. Opt for organic lime juice to avoid pesticide residues. Use filtered water ice to reduce chlorine and other additives that can disrupt gut bacteria balance.

Remix Options

Citrus Variations: Try lemon juice instead of lime, or add grapefruit juice (1/4 oz) for bitter complexity. Herbal Twist: Muddle 3-4 fresh basil leaves, rosemary sprig, or thyme before adding vodka. Fruit Infusions: Add muddled cucumber, fresh berries, or watermelon for natural sweetness. Spiced Version: Include 2-3 black peppercorns or a pinch of pink Himalayan salt on the rim. Low-ABV Option: Use 1 oz vodka and 6 oz tonic for lighter cocktail. Zero-Proof: Replace vodka with botanical gin alternative or extra lime and herbs for mocktail version.

Good To Know

Vodka Selection: Premium vodka should be smooth and clean-tasting without harsh burn – brands like Tito’s, Grey Goose, or craft distilleries offer excellent options for mixing. Tonic Quality: Look for tonic water made with real quinine rather than artificial quinine flavoring – brands like Fever-Tree, Q Tonic, or local craft tonics provide superior taste and fewer additives. Ice Importance: Large ice cubes or spheres melt slower and won’t dilute the cocktail as quickly as small ice chips. Glassware Choice: Highball or Collins glass allows proper ice-to-liquid ratio and showcases the drink’s clarity and garnish. Serving Temperature: All ingredients should be well-chilled before mixing – store vodka in freezer and tonic in refrigerator. Garnish Prep: Cut lime wheel just before serving to preserve oils and freshness that enhance aroma and flavor.

steps

Chill:

Fill highball or Collins glass with large ice cubes, leaving room for ingredients. Chill glass in freezer for 2-3 minutes if time allows.

Pour:

Add premium vodka directly over ice, followed by fresh lime juice. Pour slowly to maintain clean layers and prevent excessive mixing.

Top:

Slowly pour chilled tonic water down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation and create gentle mixing without losing effervescence.

Stir:

Give cocktail one gentle stir with bar spoon to combine ingredients without breaking up ice or losing carbonation from tonic water.

Garnish:

Express lime wheel oils by gently squeezing over drink, then drop into glass. Add cucumber slice to rim or float on surface for aromatic garnish.

Serve:

Present immediately while carbonation is at peak and garnishes are fresh. Provide cocktail stirrer or straw for guest preference.