Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic17% ABV4 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatestirred drink
Why: 4 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon
Best for: Caviar, Salty Food, Seafood Dinner
Ingredients & Tools
BaseCitrusSweetenerGarnish
- 2.0 ozVodkaBase
- 1.0 ozFresh Lemon JuiceCitrus
- 2.0 ozSimple SyrupSweetener
- 1 garnishOrange TwistGarnish
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon
How to Make It
StirGarnish
- Pour vodka, lemon juice, and syrup into ice-filled old-fashioned glass and stir.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
- Add orange twist.GarnishGarnish changes aroma, presentation or final flavour impression.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVeganVegetarian
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 — 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.SweetenerSimple syrup is neutral; honey adds floral warmth; agave is lighter and less cloying; grenadine adds pomegranate colour and fruit sweetness. Sweeteners vary in intensity — start with less than you think you need, then taste. Always rebalance with a little citrus if the drink feels flat after swapping.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Vodka Sling?
- The Vodka Sling is a cocktail made with 4 ingredients, traditionally served in a Old-Fashioned Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 17.0%. A standard serving contains approximately 320 calories.
- What does a Vodka Sling taste like?
- Vodka Sling has a flavour profile featuring Citrus, Lemon, Sweet, Orange. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Vodka Sling?
- Vodka Sling pairs well with Caviar, Salty Food, Seafood. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Vodka Sling?
- The Vodka Sling has an ABV of approximately 17.0%. That's approximately 1.42 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 320 calories, 43.6g sugar, 44.9g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Vodka Sling typically served?
- Vodka Sling is a popular choice for Seafood Dinner. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Vodka Sling?
- If you enjoy Vodka Sling, 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 Vodka Sling at home?
- Yes. The Vodka Sling uses 4 ingredients, making it straightforward to prepare at home. You will need a Old-Fashioned 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 Vodka Sling 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.