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Transfusion Cocktail

A deceptively simple cocktail that balances sweet, tart, and strong in perfect harmony. The combination of grape juice, ginger ale, and quality vodka creates a drink that tastes refreshing rather than boozy, making it dangerously easy to enjoy.
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Prep Time 1 minute
Total Time 1 minute
Servings: 1 drink
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: American
Calories: 170
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 ounces vodka preferably 80-100 proof
  • 4 ounces grape juice unsweetened or from concentrate
  • 2 ounces ginger ale fresh and carbonated
  • 1/2 lime cut into wedges
  • Ice cubes

Equipment

  • Highball or rocks glass
  • Jigger or measuring shot glass
  • Bar spoon for stirring
  • Citrus knife for cutting lime

Method
 

  1. Pour ice cubes into your highball glass until it's about three-quarters full.
  2. Using a jigger, measure exactly 2 ounces of vodka and pour it over the ice.
  3. Pour 4 ounces of grape juice directly into the glass on top of the vodka.
  4. Pour 2 ounces of ginger ale into the glass, pouring slowly so the carbonation doesn't cause excessive fizzing.
  5. Take half a lime and squeeze it directly into the drink, then drop the spent wedge into the glass for garnish.
  6. Using a bar spoon, stir the drink with about 10 to 15 gentle circular motions to combine all ingredients without losing too much carbonation.
  7. Take a sip and assess the balance of sweet, tart, and strong. Add a splash more ginger ale if it tastes too strong, or a squeeze more lime if it feels too sweet.
  8. Serve immediately while the ice is still solid and the carbonation is at its peak.

Notes

Use chilled glasses and fresh, cold ingredients straight from the refrigerator or freezer to minimize ice melt and keep your drink crisp and cold for longer. Keep your vodka in the freezer so it starts ice-cold. Use unsweetened grape juice rather than cocktail mixers. Fresh ginger ale matters more here than in many cocktails. Make this drink in batches for parties by multiplying the recipe and pouring into a pitcher without the ginger ale, then adding it just before serving.