Sparkling Pomegranate Vodka Cocktail with Citrus Vodka

Pomegranate is one of those flavours that is often added as a winter fruit but it is refreshing and delicious so can be enjoyed any time of the year. The same goes for cocktails with it like this Sparkling Pomegranate Vodka Cocktail. Perfect for a winter party but just as much for a spring BBQ!

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of pomegranate and citrus vodka creates a crisp and rejuvenating taste that’s perfect for any occasion. It is the perfect balance of tart pomegranate juice and tangy citrus vodka with some water and ice cubes. It will become a new favorite cocktail!
• Versatility: This pomegranate cocktail suits a variety of events any time of year, from cozy winter gatherings during the holiday season to lively spring barbecues.
• Simple Ingredients: With easy-to-find ingredients, you can quickly whip up this delightful drink without any hassle.
• Elegant Presentation: The vibrant red hue of pomegranate adds a touch of sophistication, making it as visually appealing as it is tasty. Grab some martini glasses for a twist on a classic cocktail such as a vodka martini.

What is Citrus Vodka?

Citrus vodka is a flavored vodka that infuses the bright and zesty notes of various citrus fruits, such as lemon, lime, or orange, into the spirit. This infusion creates a refreshing and aromatic twist on the traditional vodka, making it a popular choice for a wide range of cocktails. 

Its versatility allows it to complement both sweet and savory ingredients, enhancing the overall flavor profile of any drink it’s mixed with. Whether enjoyed on the rocks or as a key ingredient in a cocktail, citrus vodka adds a burst of tangy freshness that elevates the drinking experience.

If you don’t have some citrus vodka in your collection or can’t find it, then you can make the drink with normal vodka and add a little lemon juice. I’d suggest doing it a few drops at a time to get the flavour right as how strong the juice is will impact how much you need. Or if in doubt, just stick with the lime juice.

Ingredients

• Citrus-flavored vodka: A must-have for this cocktail, citrus-flavored vodka not only adds a refreshing zesty note but also enhances the overall flavor profile. Look for popular brands like Absolut Citron or Smirnoff Citrus, which are readily available at most liquor stores.
• Pomegranate juice: The star ingredient, pomegranate juice, brings a rich, tangy sweetness to the cocktail. For the best taste and health benefits, opt for 100% pure pomegranate juice without added sugars. Brands like Pom Wonderful or Lakewood Organic are excellent choices.
• Fresh lime juice: Fresh lime juice adds a burst of vibrant acidity that perfectly balances the sweetness of the pomegranate juice. Always choose fresh limes over bottled lime juice for the best flavor and to ensure your cocktail tastes as refreshingly as possible.
• Cold sparkling water: To give your cocktail its sparkling finish, use high-quality cold sparkling water. Brands like Perrier or San Pellegrino are well-regarded for their consistent bubbles and clean taste, making them ideal for cocktails. Make sure it’s chilled to keep your drink refreshingly cool.

Grab the full ingredients details and instructions in the recipe card below!

Substitutions and Additions

• Citrus-flavored vodka: If you can’t find citrus-flavored vodka, you can use regular vodka instead and add a squeeze of fresh lemon, lime, or orange juice to mimic the citrus flavor. Flavoured vodkas like mandarin or grapefruit can also be delightful alternatives.
• Pomegranate juice: If you can’t access pomegranate juice, cranberry juice can be a good substitute, offering a similarly tart and vibrant flavour. Alternatively, you can also use a mix of red grape juice and a splash of lemon juice for a deep, layered taste.
• Fresh lime juice: If limes are unavailable, freshly squeezed lemon juice can substitute, providing comparable acidity and brightness to the cocktail. For a different twist, consider using a combination of lemon and lime for a more complex citrus profile.
• Cold sparkling water: If sparkling water isn’t on hand, club soda or tonic water can be used instead. If you prefer a slightly sweeter and more aromatic touch, try using a sparkling lemonade or ginger ale, which can add an interesting dimension to your cocktail.

Additions

• Fresh herbs: Adding a few sprigs of fresh mint or basil can give your cocktail an aromatic boost and a touch of green freshness that pairs well with the citrus and pomegranate.
• Ginger syrup: A splash of ginger syrup can introduce a subtle spicy warmth that complements the drink’s tangy and sweet flavors.
• Berry garnish: To enhance the cocktail’s visual appeal and add a fruity flavor, garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds, raspberries, or blueberries.
• Vanilla extract: A dash of vanilla extract can add a smooth, creamy undertone, making the cocktail more complex and interesting. Use sparingly to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

Instructions

• Fill a cocktail shaker.
• Add the vodka, pomegranate juice, and lime juice.
• Shake thoroughly to combine.
• Strain the liquid into two champagne glasses evenly.
• Top up with sparkling water.
• Serve and enjoy.

Recipe tips

• Chill your ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the sparkling water and pomegranate juice, are well-chilled before making the cocktail. This helps in keeping the drink refreshingly cool without diluting it with ice.
• Use a fine mesh strainer: When straining the cocktail into glasses, using a fine mesh strainer can help remove any pulp or seed fragments from the lime juice or pomegranate juice, resulting in a smoother drink.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, consider adding a teaspoon of simple syrup or a touch of agave nectar to the mix. Taste and adjust according to your preference before shaking.
• Garnish thoughtfully: Take your presentation up a notch by garnishing with a lime wheel or a twist of lemon peel on the rim of the glass. Not only does it look appealing, but it also adds a subtle citrus aroma as you sip.
• Batch preparation: If you’re serving a crowd, consider making a larger batch of the vodka, pomegranate juice, and lime juice mixture in advance. Keep it in the refrigerator and just top it up with sparkling water before serving to save time.
• Experiment with flavors: Don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe with different citrus fruits or complementary herbs and spices. For example, adding a sprig of rosemary or a splash of elderflower liqueur can bring a unique twist to the cocktail.

Storing the Cocktail

While this pomegranate vodka cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the citrus vodka, pomegranate juice, and lime juice mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Use an airtight container or a glass bottle with a tight seal to keep the mixture fresh. The pre-mixed base should be consumed within 2-3 days for optimal flavour. Do not add the sparkling water until you’re ready to serve to preserve its effervescence.

You might also like 10 Best Summer Pitcher Cocktails to Make for Your Next BBQ by The Cocktail Bird.

Recipe FAQ

Can I make this cocktail non-alcoholic?

Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version by substituting the vodka with additional sparkling water or a citrus-flavoured soda. This will still provide a delicious and refreshing beverage with the same vibrant flavours.

How can I make the cocktail less tart?

If you find the cocktail too tart for your liking, you can balance it out by adding a bit of simple syrup, honey, or agave nectar to sweeten it to your preference. Start with a small amount and gradually adjust until you reach the desired sweetness.

What are some good garnish options?

Garnish your cocktail with fresh pomegranate seeds, a slice of lime, or a few fresh mint leaves for added visual appeal and flavour. You can also use edible flowers or a twist of lemon peel for a more sophisticated look.

Can I use a different type of alcohol?

Yes, if you prefer, you can experiment with different spirits. Gin, rum, or even tequila can be interesting alternatives to vodka, each bringing its unique taste profile to the cocktail. Adjust the quantities to maintain a balanced flavour.

How should I store leftover cocktail mix?

Store any leftover cocktail mix (without the sparkling water) in an airtight container or glass bottle in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume the mix within 2-3 days for the best flavour. Add the sparkling water just before serving to maintain its fizziness.