Vodka Rickey
A supremely refreshing highball cocktail representing the clean, crisp evolution of the historic Gin Rickey. The bright tartness of fresh lime and effervescent soda water showcases the clean slate of vodka in this minimalist masterpiece.
12%
ABV
easy
Difficulty
highball
Glass
Flavor Profile
History & Heritage
“The Vodka Rickey evolved from the historic Rickey family of cocktails, born from Colonel Joe Rickey's original creation at Shoomaker's Saloon in Washington D.C. in 1883. While the original was made with bourbon, and gin later became the most famous variation, the Vodka Rickey emerged during vodka's mid-20th century rise in America. Its clean profile made it the quintessential 'vodka soda with lime,' becoming a symbol of effortless, modern drinking that appealed to health-conscious consumers.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a highball glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes
Fill the chilled glass completely with fresh, cold ice cubes
Pour the vodka over the ice
Add the freshly squeezed lime juice
Squeeze the spent lime half and drop it into the glass
Top with chilled club soda, pouring gently to preserve carbonation
Give the drink a single, gentle stir from the bottom up
Glassware
Served in a pre-chilled 10-12 oz highball or Collins glass
Garnish
Squeeze and drop into drink
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Every component must be thoroughly chilled for optimal refreshment
Use only freshly squeezed lime juice - bottled will ruin the drink
Pour soda gently to preserve maximum carbonation
Serve immediately before carbonation dissipates
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Vodka Rickey.
The Sweet Rickey
Adds 1/4 oz simple syrup for those who find the classic too tart
Changes
Cucumber Rickey
Muddled cucumber slices and mint for a fresh, vegetal character
Changes
Gin Rickey
The more famous classic variation using London Dry Gin
Changes
Joe Rickey
The original bourbon version from 1883
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Caipiroska
Vodka, lime, and sugar muddled and built over ice—Russia meets Brazil in this crisp caipirinha cousin.
Gin Rickey
A no-sugar highball of gin, lime, and sparkling water—crisp, tart, and ultra-refreshing.
Kamikaze
Vodka, Cointreau, and lime—shaken icy cold for a clean, citrusy classic served up or as a shooter.