When you need a drink that’s crisp, not too sweet, and incredibly easy to make, the vodka press is the answer. Loved for its simplicity and low calorie profile, this refreshing cocktail has quietly earned its place at bars and backyard parties alike.
The name might sound fancy, but the drink is totally laid back just vodka, soda water, and lemon lime soda, poured over ice and garnished with citrus. It’s perfect for hot summer days, casual happy hours, or when you want something bubbly without the sugar overload.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the perfect vodka press recipe at home, along with tips from Chef Lucas Benette on how to put your own creative twist on it. Let’s start with the basics.
What Is a Vodka Press?
A vodka press is a simple, two soda highball made by mixing vodka with equal parts club soda and lemon lime soda, served over ice in a tall glass. The term “press” comes from “Presbyterian” cocktails, which traditionally blend liquor with two types of soda: one sparkling water and one flavored (like ginger ale or lemon lime).
The result? A light, crisp drink that’s slightly citrusy, a little fizzy, and easy to sip.
Why People Love It:
- Low in sugar compared to other cocktails
- Takes less than 2 minutes to make
- Easy to customize with flavored vodkas or garnishes
- A go to for people who want a refreshing, not too boozy drink
It’s the kind of cocktail you can serve at a dinner party or mix for yourself after a long day.
Ingredients for the Perfect Vodka Press
The beauty of a vodka press is how incredibly simple it is. With just a few ingredients most of which you may already have you’ll have a crisp, refreshing cocktail ready to go.
Classic Vodka Press Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz vodka (any brand you like)
- 2 oz club soda
- 2 oz lemon lime soda (like Sprite, 7UP, or a natural soda)
- Ice (enough to fill your glass)
- Lime wedge or lemon twist (optional, for garnish)
Pro Tip: Stick to a 1:1 ratio of soda water and lemon lime soda for balance. Want it less sweet? Use more soda water and less lemon lime.
Optional Flavor Enhancers:
Want to take your vodka press to the next level? Try adding one of these fun twists:
- Cucumber slices + mint leaves cool and spa like
- Muddled berries + basil fruity and herby
- Infused vodka (citrus, pepper, or vanilla)
- Flavored soda water (lime, grapefruit, or ginger)
Chef Lucas Benette’s Flavor Twist on the Vodka Press
Chef Lucas may be known for his food, but he mixes a mean cocktail too and his spin on the vodka press is both clever and refreshing.
Here’s how he builds a next level vodka press:
1. Use Infused Vodka
Lucas recommends citrus or cucumber infused vodka for added depth. These flavors blend perfectly with the soda combo without overpowering the drink.
2. Add Fresh Herbs
He adds a few torn mint or basil leaves before stirring. Not only does it add a fragrant finish, but it also feels more elevated with minimal effort.
3. Shake, Don’t Stir (Optional)
For a colder, fizzier finish, Lucas shakes the vodka and sodas gently over ice, then strains into a fresh glass of ice. It chills quickly and looks sleek.
“It’s a casual drink but that doesn’t mean it can’t feel classy,” says Lucas.
How to Make a Vodka Press (Step by Step)
Ready to mix your drink? The vodka press is one of the easiest cocktails you’ll ever make no shaker, no tools, no fancy tricks. Just pour, top, and sip.
Step by Step Vodka Press Recipe
You’ll need:
- Highball or Collins glass
- Ice
- Vodka
- Club soda
- Lemon lime soda
- Lime wedge (optional)
Instructions:
- Fill your glass with ice
All the way to the top. This keeps the drink cold and crisp. - Add 1.5 oz vodka
Use a jigger or shot glass to measure if needed. - Top with 2 oz club soda
For fizz and dilution. - Add 2 oz lemon lime soda
This gives it just the right hint of sweetness. - Garnish with a lime wedge or twist
Optional, but it adds a refreshing citrus pop. - Stir gently and serve immediately
It’s that easy! You can adjust the soda ratio if you prefer more sweetness or more fizz.
Vodka Press Variations & Calorie Table
Want to change things up or keep it light? Here are some easy vodka press recipe ideas, including approximate calorie counts for each 6–8 oz serving:
| Variation | Calories | Add Ons |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Vodka Press | 120 kcal | Lime wedge, ice |
| Cucumber Mint Press | 125 kcal | Cucumber slices, mint leaves |
| Berry Citrus Vodka Press | 130 kcal | Muddled berries, lemon slice |
| Diet Vodka Press | 90 kcal | Diet soda, citrus zest |
| Mocktail Press | 0 kcal | No vodka, all soda + herbs |
Want a lower calorie version? Use flavored soda water and skip the lemon lime soda completely.
FAQs About Vodka Press Cocktails
1. What is in a vodka press?
A classic vodka press is made with three simple ingredients:
- Vodka
- Club soda (or soda water)
- Lemon lime soda (like Sprite or 7UP)
It’s typically served over ice in a highball glass and garnished with a wedge of lime or lemon. The result is a light, bubbly cocktail with a subtle citrus kick.
2. What does press mean in a drink?
The word “press” in cocktails comes from “Presbyterian,” a traditional drink made with whiskey, ginger ale, and club soda. In modern cocktails like the vodka press, “press” refers to using half soda water and half flavored soda. This combo gives the drink balance less sweet, more fizz.
3. Why is black vodka illegal in the US?
Black vodka isn’t illegal in the U.S., but some versions have faced issues due to certain food colorings or labeling concerns. For example, additives like E153 (vegetable carbon) used to create the black color are not FDA approved for use in beverages in the U.S. Always check the brand’s ingredients and availability.
4. What’s in a vodka spritz?
A vodka spritz is another refreshing cocktail that usually includes:
- Vodka
- Sparkling wine or Prosecco
- Soda water
- Optional: fruit juice or flavored liqueur (like elderflower or Aperol)
It’s served over ice with fruit garnishes like orange, lemon, or berries, offering a slightly more complex flavor than a Vodka Press Recipe.
Final Thoughts on the Vodka Press Recipe
The vodka press is proof that cocktails don’t have to be complicated to be good. With a few simple ingredients and a glass of ice, you’ve got a drink that’s:
- Light
- Crisp
- Versatile
- And perfect for any occasion
Whether you’re sipping solo or serving a group, this easy recipe belongs in every home bartender’s rotation. And with Chef Lucas Benette’s twist herbs, infused vodka, or fresh citrus you can make this humble drink feel like a crafted cocktail.
So the next time you’re hosting or winding down after work, skip the sugar heavy mixes and press play on a vodka press.
