Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic19.6% ABV3 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatestirred drink
Why: 3 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon
Best for: Caviar, Salty Food, Summer
Ingredients & Tools
BaseCitrusMixer
- 2.0 ozVodkaBase
- 2.0 ozSoda WaterMixer
- Lime wedgeOrange JuiceCitrus
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon
How to Make It
StirTop
- Pour vodka into ice-filled highball glass.
- Fill almost to top with soda water.TopTopping adds length, bubbles, dilution or sweetness near the end.
- Top with orange juice and stir.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
- 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.CitrusLemon is bright and sharp; lime is more floral and slightly sweeter; orange is softer and rounder; grapefruit adds bitter edge. They are not interchangeable — each changes the acidity and aroma of the drink. If you swap, adjust the sweetener to rebalance.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 Handball Cooler?
- The Handball Cooler is a cocktail made with 3 ingredients, traditionally served in a Highball Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 19.6%. A standard serving contains approximately 141 calories.
- What does a Handball Cooler taste like?
- Handball Cooler has a flavour profile featuring Orange, Sparkling, Citrus, Sweet. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Handball Cooler?
- Handball 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 Handball Cooler?
- The Handball Cooler has an ABV of approximately 19.6%. That's approximately 1.42 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 141 calories, 0.8g sugar, 1.0g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Handball Cooler typically served?
- Handball 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 Handball Cooler?
- If you enjoy Handball 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 Handball Cooler at home?
- Yes. The Handball Cooler uses 3 ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home. You will need a Highball 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 Handball 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.