Cosmopolitan
Citrusy cranberry vodka cocktail.
Drink details
Glass
Martini Glass
Ice
No Ice
Method
Shaken
Strength
Medium
Servings
1
Recipe
Ingredients
Vodka Citron
40 ml
Triple Sec
15 ml
Cranberry Juice
30 ml
Lime Juice
Freshly squeezed
15 ml
Garnish
Lemon Peel
Twist
1 piece
Rating
Rate this drink
Method
Preparation
- 1
Add the Vodka Citron, triple sec, cranberry juice and freshly squeezed lime juice to a shaker with ice.
- 2
Shake well until thoroughly chilled.
- 3
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon twist.
About the Cosmopolitan
The Cosmopolitan is a citrus-forward vodka cocktail combining vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice and freshly squeezed lime juice. Closely associated with modern cocktail culture, its distinctive pink color comes from cranberry juice, while lime and orange liqueur provide much of its citrus character. Although fruity, a well-balanced Cosmopolitan should remain crisp rather than excessively sweet. Shaken with ice and served cold, it offers a polished combination of fruit, acidity and clean vodka character.
What does a Cosmopolitan taste like?
A Cosmopolitan tastes bright, tart and lightly fruity. Cranberry contributes berry flavor and color, while fresh lime provides acidity and triple sec adds sweetness and orange notes. Vodka creates a relatively neutral alcoholic base, allowing the fruit and citrus flavors to remain prominent. The overall result should be refreshing and balanced between tartness and sweetness rather than tasting like cranberry juice alone.
Tips for making a Cosmopolitan
Freshly squeezed lime juice is important for giving the Cosmopolitan enough acidity to balance the cranberry and orange liqueur. Shake all the ingredients thoroughly with ice until very cold, then strain into a chilled glass. Avoid adding excessive cranberry juice: it should contribute fruit and color without overwhelming the lime, orange and vodka.
