Vodka Guide + Our Best Vodka Cocktails

Learn about vodka and all our best vodka cocktails, including classic vodka drinks, martinis and mixed drinks like the Black Russian and Moscow Mule.

What is Vodka?

Vodka is a clear spirit. It was originally made by fermenting and distilling potatoes or grains. But it can actually be made from most anything, including beets or grapes!

It may have originated in Russia or Poland, but it’s now enjoyed all over the world. It shows up in lots of popular vodka cocktail recipes.

Alcohol content of vodka

Vodka has an ABV (alcohol by volume) of between 40% and 50%. That translates to 80-100 proof. In the US, it has to contain a minimum of 40% ABV whereas in Europe the minimum is 37.5% alcohol content.

Vodka shots on a cutting board

How Does Vodka Taste?

Vodka has a neutral flavor that doesn’t influence the taste of a cocktail. That means vodka is the perfect spirit for cocktails where you don’t want the flavor of the liquors changing the flavor of the mixers.

You can mix vodka into nearly any drink, including non-alcoholic drinks you want to spike. It won’t change the flavor. It just adds a kick.

You can also buy all kinds of flavored vodka, or make your own infused vodka. Check out our fun infusions like Skittles Vodka and Salted Caramel Vodka.

Classic Vodka Cocktails

These popular vodka cocktail recipes will get you excited to discover this ingredient. You can see all our vodka cocktails here.