Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic10.8% ABV4 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Easy
Why: 4 ingredients
Best for: Caviar, Chocolate, Seafood Dinner
Ingredients
BaseModifierCitrusMixer
- 2 ozVodkaBase
- 2 ozCherry LiqueurModifier
- 4 ozCranberry JuiceMixer
- 4 ozOrange JuiceCitrus
How to Make It
- Served over ice in a tall glass with a popped cherry (can add more popped cherries if in the mood)!GarnishGarnish changes aroma, presentation or final flavour impression.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
Swap notes
Base spiritVodka is the most forgiving swap. A neutral vodka keeps the drink clean. Flavoured vodkas add character but change the balance โ 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 โ each changes the acidity and aroma of the drink. If you swap, adjust the sweetener to rebalance.
GarnishA maraschino or cocktail cherry adds a sweet, fruity finish and a visual anchor. A fresh cherry is less sweet and more tart. An orange twist or peel swap will change the aroma but remove the fruit sweetness โ the drink will feel drier as a result.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Popped cherry?
- The Popped cherry is a cocktail made with 4 ingredients, traditionally served in a Highball Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 10.8%. A standard serving contains approximately 427 calories.
- What does a Popped cherry taste like?
- Popped cherry has a flavour profile featuring Berry, Sweet, Tart, Orange. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Popped cherry?
- Popped cherry pairs well with Caviar, Chocolate, Desserts. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Popped cherry?
- The Popped cherry has an ABV of approximately 10.8%. That's approximately 2.17 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 427 calories, 41.9g sugar, 50.4g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Popped cherry typically served?
- Popped cherry is a popular choice for Seafood Dinner, Summer. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Popped cherry?
- If you enjoy Popped cherry, 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 Popped cherry at home?
- Yes. The Popped cherry uses 4 ingredients, making it straightforward 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 Popped cherry 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.

