A pomegranate vodka sour adds a bright twist to the classic vodka sour cocktail. The rich red fruit brings sweet-tart notes that blend well with fresh citrus and smooth vodka.
This simple recipe needs just 4 ingredients – vodka, pomegranate juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
The drink’s ruby color makes it perfect for special occasions like holidays and celebrations. People love serving these at winter parties when pomegranates are in season.
The garnish options range from fresh pomegranate seeds to citrus wheels.
This cocktail takes less than 5 minutes to make and requires no special bartending skills. The recipe works well for both single servings and larger batches when entertaining guests.
Pomegranate Vodka Sour Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Hawthorne strainer
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Coupe or martini glass
- Ice cube tray
- Citrus juicer
- Bar spoon
Ingredients
- 2 oz premium vodka
- 1 oz fresh pomegranate juice
- ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- 1 egg white optional
- Ice cubes for shaking
- Pomegranate seeds for garnish
- Fresh lemon twist for garnish
Instructions
- Fill the cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Add vodka, pomegranate juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- If using egg white, add it now.
- Shake hard for 15-20 seconds to chill and combine ingredients.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass using both strainers.
- If using egg white, remove ice and dry shake again for 10 seconds to create foam.
- Garnish with pomegranate seeds and lemon twist.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
This pomegranate vodka sour has a bright, tart flavor with subtle sweetness. The first sip brings forward the fresh pomegranate juice, followed by crisp vodka notes.
The drink has a smooth, silky texture from the egg white foam, which adds a luxurious mouthfeel. The foam carries light aromatic hints of citrus from the fresh lemon juice.
Key Flavor Components:
- Front: Fresh pomegranate, bright citrus
- Middle: Clean vodka, balanced sweetness
- Finish: Smooth, creamy texture with lingering fruit
The cocktail stays well-balanced between sweet and sour elements. The pomegranate adds depth without being overwhelming, while fresh lemon brings a zippy brightness.
A light pink color and frothy white top make this drink visually appealing. The garnish of pomegranate seeds adds bursts of fresh fruit flavor when eaten.
Substitute
You can replace pomegranate vodka with regular vodka and pomegranate juice. Mix 2 ounces of vodka with 1 ounce of pomegranate juice.
Other spirit options work well in this cocktail. Try gin for a botanical twist or white rum for a sweeter taste.
If you want a non-alcoholic version, skip the vodka and use 3 ounces of pomegranate juice mixed with club soda or tonic water.
For the sour mix, combine equal parts lemon juice and simple syrup. You can also use a fresh squeeze of lime juice instead of lemon juice.
Alternative Sweeteners:
- Agave nectar
- Honey syrup
- Maple syrup
Can’t find fresh pomegranate juice? Bottled POM Wonderful or other store-bought brands work just as well.
Spirit Substitutions:
- Gin: 2 oz
- White rum: 2 oz
- Tequila: 2 oz
- Brandy: 2 oz
