Summer is just around the corner, which means you’ll be looking for a cool, refreshing beverage to sip on. What’s cooler than a cucumber? Cucumber-flavored vodka.
I know I was hesitant to try it at first, but I was extremely surprised to discover how great it tasted by itself, chilled or on the rocks.
Some people may shy away from flavored vodkas because they limit what mixers are compatible with that specific flavor.
There are only so many combinations you can make with Key Lime Pie-flavored vodka, after all. Fortunately, cucumber has an extremely versatile flavor profile, especially during warmer weather.
A simple glass of water can be easily elevated by adding a slice of cucumber, but what about elevating your standard “Vodka and Seltzer” drink?
In this article, I’ll be breaking down 8 of the best brands that offer cucumber-flavored vodka and how best to incorporate them into beverages to make you feel like you’re at a luxury spa.
EFFEN Cucumber Vodka
EFFEN Vodka was introduced to the market in 2002, but the special recipe for the spirits originates all the way back to the late 1800s.
EFFEN Cucumber Vodka made a splash in more recent years, as the brand continued to expand its flavor repertoire. It has a crisp, fresh cucumber flavor that’s followed up with a smooth and slightly sweet finish.
My favorite way to incorporate EFFEN cucumber vodka into a classic cocktail is to make an EFFEN Cucumber Collins.
This light and summery drink is a mixture of EFFEN Cucumber Vodka, a splash of sour mix, club soda, and I like to garnish it with a slice of fresh cucumber and a lemon spiral when I’m feeling fancy.
Ketel One Botanical Cucumber and Mint
I was super impressed when I tried Ketel One Botanical Cucumber and Mint Vodka.
My first experience with this brand of vodka was when I was still in college, and back then you mixed it with juice so you could mask the taste of the alcohol.
I would never dream of trying to hide it now because the cucumber and mint flavor makes it so crisp and refreshing.
The botanical aspect elevates this cucumber vodka above the others because all you need to enjoy it are a few ice cubes, a splash of seltzer, and a sprig of fresh mint or another fragrant herb of your choosing.
Pearl Cucumber Vodka
If you’re looking for a way to jazz up a summer party, Pearl Cucumber Vodka is the way to go.
Not only is it certified gluten-free, but its bright and elegant flavor profile pairs well with almost any fresh fruit. My favorite option, in this case, would have to be watermelon.
Muddle a few pieces of fresh watermelon in a glass, add ice, club soda, and of course, Pearl Cucumber Vodka for a delicious pink cucumber-melon spritzer.
I like to also add a lime wedge for a bit of acidity that really makes the flavor pop.
You can freeze the watermelon first and blend the ingredients together for an adult summer slushie if you’re feeling extra fancy.
Skinnygirl Cucumber Vodka
Skinnygirl Cucumber Vodka is a game-changer when it comes to low-calorie summer cocktails.
This premium vodka offers a crisp, smooth, and not-too-sweet cucumber flavor that can be enjoyed on the rocks with a simple lime or cucumber garnish.
This is the perfect cucumber-flavored vodka for those who are looking to be more conscious of their caloric intake, without losing the flavor.
I personally like to keep a bottle in my freezer for a quick and delicious drink on a hot summer day. Sometimes simple is better, and Skinnygirl likes to flaunt that.
The less time it takes to craft a beverage for yourself and others means being able to spend more quality time with friends and family.
Stoli Cucumber Vodka
Stoli Cucumber Vodka is the first new flavor introduced to the Stoli vodka lineup since 2012.
It has a distinct “pure and clean” cucumber flavor that I think makes it stand out from the competition.
When I tried this, I wanted to break the mold and try a new flavor pairing. I made a bloody mary.
Spoiler alert: this bloody mary was the bomb. All you need is Stoli Cucumber Vodka, tomato juice, freshly grated horseradish, salt and pepper, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
You can also toss some Tobasco sauce in there if you’re feeling adventurous.
Prairie Organic Cucumber Vodka
Without a doubt, alcohol was an essential commodity during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prairie Organic Cucumber Vodka understood the assignment. They won five awards in 2020, including the World Spirits Awards for “Best Flavored Vodka” two years in a row for 2019 and 2020.
This award-winning cucumber vodka is also gluten-free, which is extremely important for individuals with gluten intolerance.
My favorite way to enjoy Prarie’s cucumber vodka is a twist on one of my go-to vodka beverages; a greyhound.
Simply add fresh grapefruit juice and a lime wedge to indulge yourself in the best greyhound you’ve ever had.
Square One Cucumber Vodka
Square One Cucumber Vodka is the pioneer of cucumber-flavored vodkas.
They were the first ever to bring the “delicate and fresh taste” of cucumbers to the vodka platform.
Combining the flavor of organic cucumbers with an organic rye-based vodka produced the first-of-its-kind trendsetter in the vodka industry.
I know that not everybody likes taking shots, but the cucumber-Lemondrop shot is an absolute breath of fresh air.
All you need is a lemon wedge coated in sugar to finish off a silky-smooth shot of chilled Square One’s Cucumber Vodka.
If you’re not into taking shots, you can always enjoy this cucumber-flavored vodka with some ice, a lime seltzer, and a lemon wedge garnish.
Crop Organic Cucumber Vodka
Looking to improve on your cocktail game this summer?
I have the vodka for you. Crop Organic Cucumber Vodka presents the next big thing for backyard get-togethers.
As of now, they are the only USDA-certified 100% organic producer of cucumber-flavored vodka.
By now I’m sure you’re familiar with the typical pairings for cucumber vodka, such as limes, herbs, and club soda, but have you considered adding champagne?
Muddle a few blackberries with Crop Organic Cucumber Vodka, add a squeeze of lemon juice, and top it off with a floater of champagne for a delectable cucumber cooler that will both refresh and relax you.