Swinging into Refreshment: 4 Golf Inspired Cocktails from Across the Country

Swinging into Refreshment: 4 Golf Inspired Cocktails from Across the Country

When the sun is high, and the fairways stretch out before you, there's something uniquely refreshing about a perfectly mixed vodka drink. As golf enthusiasts know, each region of the United States boasts its own signature concoctions, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the game. Let's take a tour of the country, exploring the vodka drinks that have become staples on golf courses from coast to coast.

Arnold Palmer Martini aka The John Daly - Southeast Region

This delightful fusion of the classic Arnold Palmer and a traditional Martini is a favorite among golfers in the Southeast. It offers a perfect balance of sweet tea and citrusy vodka.

Recipe:
  • 2 oz vodka
  • 1 oz sweet tea
  • 1 oz lemonade
  • Lemon twist for garnish
Combine vodka, sweet tea, and lemonade in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Pacific Breeze - West Coast

Inspired by the cool ocean breeze of the Pacific, this vodka drink is a go-to choice for golfers teeing off on the West Coast. Its blend of cucumber and mint provides a refreshing sensation, perfect for a sunny day on the course.

Recipe:
  • 1 ½ oz vodka
  • 3 cucumber slices
  • 4-5 mint leaves
  • ½ oz simple syrup
  • ½ oz lime juice
  • Soda water
  • Cucumber slice and mint sprig for garnish
Muddle cucumber slices and mint leaves in a shaker. Add vodka, simple syrup, and lime juice. Shake well with ice and strain into a highball glass filled with ice. Top with soda water and garnish with a cucumber slice and mint sprig.

Midwest Mule - Central Region

The Midwest Mule puts a local spin on the classic Moscow Mule, incorporating regional flavors like apple cider and cinnamon. It's the perfect companion for golfers navigating the rolling greens of the heartland.

Recipe:
  • 1 ½ oz vodka
  • 4 oz apple cider
  • ½ oz lime juice
  • Ginger beer
  • Apple slice and cinnamon stick for garnish
Fill a copper mug with ice. Add vodka, apple cider, and lime juice. Stir gently and top with ginger beer. Garnish with an apple slice and a cinnamon stick.

Northeast Nectar - Eastern Region

The Northeast Nectar celebrates the flavors of the region with a blend of cranberry and elderflower, creating a sophisticated and refreshing vodka drink that's perfect for sipping on the links of the Northeast.

Recipe:
  • 1 ½ oz vodka
  • 2 oz cranberry juice
  • ½ oz elderflower liqueur
  • ½ oz lime juice
  • Club soda
  • Cranberries and lime wheel for garnish
Fill a glass with ice and add vodka, cranberry juice, elderflower liqueur, and lime juice. Stir well and top with club soda. Garnish with cranberries and a lime wheel.

As golfers tee off across the country, they can find solace in the fact that no matter the region, there's a perfect vodka drink waiting to accompany them on their journey. Whether it's the citrusy zing of the Arnold Palmer Martini in the Southeast or the crisp coolness of the Pacific Breeze on the West Coast, these regional favorites add an extra layer of enjoyment to the game, making every swing just a little easier to make. Here's to the perfect pairing of vodka and golf!