Soldier’s Citrus Splash Cocktail Recipe

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Looking for a refreshing drink that brings together sweet citrus and a hint of nostalgia? The Soldier’s Citrus Splash cocktail adds a modern twist to a classic military drink from World War II.

This easy-to-make cocktail mixes fresh orange juice, lime, and gin with a splash of grenadine for a balanced blend of sweet and tart flavors.

The recipe came from soldiers stationed in the Pacific during WWII. They mixed local citrus fruits with their drink rations to create something tasty in tough conditions.

Their creative mix became popular at military bars and spread to civilian life.

The bright orange color and fruit garnish make this drink perfect for summer parties and backyard gatherings. The recipe takes just 5 minutes to prepare and needs only basic bar tools that most people have at home.

Soldier’s Citrus Splash Cocktail Recipe

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This refreshing citrus cocktail mixes fresh orange juice, lime, and vodka for a bright and zesty drink perfect for warm afternoons.

John

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Serving Size 1

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger or measuring cup
• Citrus juicer
• Cocktail glass
• Ice
• Sharp knife
• Cutting Board

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz fresh orange juice
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Orange wheel for garnish
• Ice cubes
• Club soda to top

Instructions

• Fill the cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
• Pour the vodka, orange juice, lime juice, and simple syrup into the shaker.
• Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until well chilled.
• Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.
• Top with a splash of club soda and stir gently.
• Garnish with an orange wheel.

Notes

Store fresh citrus at room temperature for best juicing results. The juice should be squeezed right before mixing the drink.

This recipe makes one serving. Double or triple the amounts to serve more people.

Keep simple syrup in the fridge for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.

For a non-alcoholic version, replace vodka with extra club soda and a splash of tonic water.

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Tasting Notes

The Soldier’s Citrus Splash offers a bright, zesty flavor profile that balances sweet and sour notes. Fresh orange juice brings natural sweetness, while lemon adds a tart kick.

The drink starts with crisp citrus aromas that jump from the glass. A gentle hint of mint adds a cooling touch to the nose.

Primary Flavors:

• Sweet orange
• Tart lemon
• Fresh mint
• Light rum notes

The texture is smooth and refreshing. Ice dilution creates the perfect balance, making it easy to drink on warm days.

A light rum base provides subtle warmth without overpowering the citrus elements. The alcohol content sits at a moderate level, making this cocktail suitable for casual sipping.

The finish leaves a clean, citrusy taste that lingers briefly. Mint notes resurface at the end, creating a cool sensation.

Best Served:

• Temperature: Very cold
• Glass: Collins
• Garnish: Orange wheel and mint sprig

Substitute

The Soldier’s Citrus Splash can be made with different ingredients when the original ones aren’t available. Each swap keeps the drink’s tangy, fresh taste.

For the orange juice base, try tangerine juice or blood orange juice. These fruits add similar citrus notes with their own unique twists.

Alternative spirits for vodka:

• Gin (adds herbal notes)
• White rum (brings sweetness)
• Light tequila (creates an earthy taste)

When fresh lemon juice isn’t on hand, lime juice makes a good replacement. Bottled citrus juices work too, but they might make the drink less bright-tasting.

The sugar syrup can be replaced with:

• Honey syrup
• Agave nectar
• Maple syrup

For garnish options, switch out the orange wheel with:

• Lemon wheel
• Lime wheel
• Fresh mint sprig

Note: Using different substitutes will change the drink’s taste, but it will still be refreshing and enjoyable.

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