Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic8% ABV5 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatestirred drink
Why: 5 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon
Best for: Caviar, Salty Food, Summer
Ingredients & Tools
BaseCitrusMixerGarnish
- 1.0 ozCitrus-Flavored VodkaBase
- 1.0 ozFresh Lime JuiceCitrus
- 2.0 ozLemonadeMixer
- 1.0 ozCranberry JuiceMixer
- 1 garnishLime WedgeGarnish
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon
How to Make It
- Stir in Collins glass.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
- Add ice and stir again.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
- Squeeze and add lime.
Best For
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 — 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.BubblesSoda water is neutral and clean — 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 — pick the one that suits the drink's flavour direction.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Citronella Cooler?
- The Citronella Cooler is a cocktail made with 5 ingredients, traditionally served in a Collins Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 8.0%. A standard serving contains approximately 113 calories.
- What does a Citronella Cooler taste like?
- Citronella Cooler has a flavour profile featuring Citrus, Tart, Lime, Sparkling. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Citronella Cooler?
- Citronella Cooler pairs well with Caviar, Salty Food, Seafood. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Citronella Cooler?
- The Citronella Cooler has an ABV of approximately 8.0%. That's approximately 0.71 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 113 calories, 10.0g sugar, 12.0g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Citronella Cooler typically served?
- Citronella Cooler is a popular choice for Summer, Seafood Dinner. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Citronella Cooler?
- If you enjoy Citronella Cooler, 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 Citronella Cooler at home?
- Yes. The Citronella Cooler uses 5 ingredients, making it straightforward to prepare at home. You will need a Collins 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 Citronella Cooler 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.