Vodka and Mountain Dew: A Surprising and Delicious Combination

Vodka and Mountain Dew: A Surprisingly Delicious Combination

When it comes to mixing interesting vodka cocktails, the usual suspects are usually soda, orange juice, cranberry juice, tonic, and tomato juice. But have you ever considered Mountain Dew as a potential vodka mixer? In this article, we will explore the compatibility of vodka and Mountain Dew and discover some delightful cocktails that can be created with this unexpected combination.

The Origins of Mountain Dew as a Mixing Agent

Mountain Dew, a popular soft drink, was actually created with the intention of being a mixer for hard liquor. Its original purpose was to enhance the taste of whiskey. The term “Mountain Dew” itself was a Southern and Scottish slang term for moonshine. While Mountain Dew may not immediately come to mind as a natural pairing for vodka and other spirits, it is an incredibly underrated mixer with a unique flavor profile.

The flavor profile of vodka and Mountain Dew

To understand the potential of vodka and Mountain Dew as a pairing, it is important to consider their individual flavor profiles. Mountain Dew is a sweet soda with tangy citrus flavors, including notes of lime, orange and grapefruit. It is crisp and refreshing, making it an excellent complement to alcohol by cutting through the intensity of strong flavors.
Vodka, on the other hand, has a wide range of flavors depending on the quality and brand. While it carries a noticeable alcohol burn, other flavors can range from smooth and creamy to slightly sweet and citrusy. Higher quality vodka tends to have a smoother taste, which pairs well with the strong citrus and sweet notes of Mountain Dew.
When vodka and Mountain Dew are combined, the resulting taste will be predominantly Mountain Dew, with a subtle undertone of alcohol and a possible slight burn, depending on the strength of the drink and the quality of the vodka used.

The perfect cocktail ratio: Vodka to Mountain Dew

To make a delicious vodka and Mountain Dew cocktail, it is important to find the perfect ratio between the two ingredients. The recommended ratio is 1.5 ounces of vodka to 1 cup (250 ml) of Mountain Dew. This ratio provides a balanced drink that enhances the flavors of both components.
For those who prefer a stronger drink, the ratio can be adjusted to 2 ounces of vodka to 1 cup of Mountain Dew. To keep the cocktail cool, add a good amount of ice cubes or crushed ice. While a tall glass is ideal for this cocktail because of the room for ice, any glass will do.

Cocktail Recipes: Rocket Fuel and Mountain Cider High

1. Rocket Fuel Cocktail Recipe:
   Ingredients:

• 1.5 ounces of vodka
• 1 cup chilled Mountain Dew
• 3-4 ice cubes
• Slice of lime for garnish

Directions to the restaurant:

1. Combine all ingredients in a tall glass.
2. Stir with a spoon or stir stick.
3. Enjoy!
4. Mountain Cider High Cocktail Recipe:
   Ingredients:

• 1 ounce of vodka
• 1 ounce apple cider
• 1 ounce chilled Mountain Dew
• 2 ice cubes
• Slice of lime, orange or lemon to garnish

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a short glass.
2. Squeeze your favorite citrus into the mix.
3. Stir with a spoon.
4. Enjoy!

Explore more cocktail ideas

If you want to keep experimenting with vodka and Mountain Dew, here are some additional cocktail recipes to try:

1. Jungle Juice Recipe:
   Ingredients:

• 1 pint good quality vodka
• 1 pack of your favorite Kool-Aid mix
• 1 liter of chilled Mountain Dew
• Fruit garnishes (e.g., diced pineapple, watermelon, strawberries, limes, lemons, oranges, grapefruit)

Directions:

1. In a large punch bowl, combine the vodka, Kool-Aid mix and Mountain Dew.
2. Add ice cubes and slices of your favorite citrus, fresh berries, or other fruit garnishes.
3. Enjoy!
4. Pink Lemonade Vodka Punch Recipe:
   Ingredients:

• 1 cup citrus or plain vodka
• 1 12-ounce container of pink lemonade concentrate
• 1 liter of Mountain Dew
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 cup raspberries

Directions:

1. Pour the vodka and frozen pink lemonade concentrate into a large pitcher.
2. Stir and add ice cubes.
3. Fill the jug with Mountain Dew.
4. Stir in lemon wedges and a handful of raspberries.
5. Garnish each drink with additional slices of citrus and raspberries.

Select garnishes to enhance flavors

To enhance the flavors of your vodka and Mountain Dew cocktails, you can experiment with different garnishes. Here are a few suggestions:

• Slices of citrus (lime, lemon or orange): Citrus slices not only add visual appeal to your drink, but also enhance the citrus notes present in Mountain Dew. Squeeze a slice into the cocktail for an extra burst of flavor.
• Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries): Berries add a touch of sweetness and a pop of color. They complement the overall fruity profile of the cocktail.
• Mint leaves: Adding a few fresh mint leaves can add a refreshing and aromatic element to your drink. Gently muddle the mint leaves before adding them to release their flavor.
• Maraschino Cherries: These sweet cherries add a delightful burst of flavor and a vibrant touch to your cocktail. They are often used as a classic garnish for vodka-based drinks.

Remember that garnishes are not only decorative, but can also contribute to the overall flavor and aroma of your cocktail. Feel free to experiment with different combinations and find the ones that suit your preferences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, vodka and Mountain Dew are a surprisingly delicious combination. The citrusy and sweet flavors of Mountain Dew pair exceptionally well with the smooth taste of vodka. Whether you choose to enjoy a classic Rocket Fuel cocktail or venture into other recipes like the Mountain Cider High, the possibilities are endless.
Remember to experiment with proportions, garnishes, and even additional ingredients to create your perfect vodka and Mountain Dew cocktail. Here’s to exploring new flavors and enjoying the wonderful world of mixology!

FAQS

Can I mix vodka and Mountain Dew?

Yes, vodka and Mountain Dew can be mixed together for a tasty and refreshing cocktail.

What does vodka and Mountain Dew taste like when mixed together?

When combined, vodka and Mountain Dew taste mostly like Mountain Dew with a subtle undertone of alcohol.

Is Mountain Dew specifically designed as a hard liquor mixer?

Yes, Mountain Dew was originally created to enhance the taste of whiskey and was intended to be a mixer for hard liquor.

What is the recommended ratio of vodka to Mountain Dew in a cocktail?

The recommended ratio is 1.5 ounces of vodka to 1 cup (250 ml) of Mountain Dew. Adjustments can be made based on personal preference.

What are some popular cocktails that can be made with vodka and Mountain Dew?

Two popular cocktails are the Rocket Fuel, which is made with just vodka and Mountain Dew, and the Mountain Cider High, which combines vodka, Mountain Dew and apple cider.

What garnishes can be added to enhance the flavors of vodka and Mountain Dew cocktails?

Citrus slices (lime, lemon, or orange), fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries), mint leaves, and maraschino cherries are all excellent choices for garnishing vodka and Mountain Dew cocktails.