There’s something about a Bootleg cocktail that just screams summer. It’s minty, citrusy, and so refreshing-it’s the kind of drink you want to sip on a sunny patio or bring along for a backyard BBQ. A favorite in Minnesota (and especially at golf courses!), this Prohibition-era classic has a rebellious past and a crisp, modern charm.
Bootlegger
I’ve made this drink countless times-especially when hosting-and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way to make it even better. Let’s break it down so you can make your own perfect Bootleg at home.
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 (easily scaled for a crowd)
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
– 2 oz (60 ml) lemonade
– 2 oz (60 ml) limeade
– A handful of fresh mint leaves (about 8-10 leaves)
– Ice
– Club soda, to top
– Mint sprig or lime slice, for garnish
Optional:
– Substitute vodka with gin or white rum for a different twist
– Use honey or agave syrup if you’re making homemade lemonade or limeade
– For a lower-sugar version, use light lemonade/limeade or make your own with less sweetener
Equipment
– Highball glass or Mason jar
– Muddler or the back of a spoon
– Stirring spoon
Method
- Start by muddling your mint leaves in the bottom of your glass. Press gently-just enough to release that fresh minty aroma. You don’t want to shred the leaves, or they’ll turn bitter.
- Fill the glass to the top with ice. This helps keep everything cold and crisp.
- Pour in the vodka, lemonade, and limeade. Stir gently to mix everything together.
- Top it off with a splash of club soda for that fizzy finish.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint or a slice of lime. Serve right away and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh mint. It makes all the difference-dried or mint extract just won’t cut it here.
– Chill your glass ahead of time if you can. It keeps your drink cooler longer, especially on hot days.
– Balance the citrus. Some lemonades are sweeter than others. Taste as you go and adjust the mix to your liking.
– Batch it for parties. Mix up the lemonade, limeade, and muddled mint in a pitcher. Just leave out the vodka and soda until you’re ready to serve so the drink stays fresh and fizzy.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can muddle the mint and mix it with the lemonade and limeade up to a day in advance. Keep it chilled in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, pour over ice, add vodka and club soda, and garnish.
Storage
Bootlegs are best enjoyed fresh, but if you’ve made a big batch of the citrus base (lemonade, limeade, and mint), it’ll keep in the fridge for 2-3 days. Just give it a stir before using.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with light, flavorful dishes. Here are a few of my go-to combos:
Grilled Chicken
The drink’s citrus and mint cut through the richness of grilled meat-super refreshing.
Fresh Salads
A vinaigrette-dressed salad mirrors the tangy notes in the drink. Think arugula, cherry tomatoes, and goat cheese.
Fish Tacos
The citrus kick in the Bootleg plays so well with spicy, limey tacos. Add a little avocado crema and you’re set.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the porch. It’s light, it’s zippy, and it just feels like a treat after a long day in the sun.
Variations to Try
Spicy Bootleg
– Add a slice of fresh jalapeño when you muddle the mint.
– It adds just the right amount of heat-great for spice lovers.
Bootleg Spritz
– Swap the club soda for Prosecco.
– The bubbles make it feel extra festive-perfect for brunch or celebrations.
Frozen Bootleg
– Use crushed ice and blend everything for a slushy-style drink.
– It’s like a citrusy mint slushie for adults.
Virgin Bootleg (Mocktail)
– Skip the vodka and add more club soda.
– Still super refreshing and perfect for all ages.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemonade and limeade?
Yes! Fresh is great if you have the time, but bottled versions work well too. Just taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
What kind of mint should I use?
Spearmint is the classic choice. It’s mild and cooling without being too intense. Peppermint is stronger and can overwhelm the drink.
Can I make this for a crowd?
Definitely. Just scale up the ingredients and mix the base in a big pitcher. Add vodka and soda to individual glasses when serving.
How do I muddle mint properly?
Gently press the leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon until you smell that fresh mint. Don’t mash or tear-it can make the drink bitter.
How can I make it less sweet?
Use less lemonade and limeade, or make your own with less sugar. You can also add a bit more club soda to dilute the sweetness.
Final Thoughts
The Bootleg is more than just a cocktail-it’s a slice of summer in a glass. Whether you’re hosting friends or just kicking back after a long day, it’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and downright delicious.
Try mixing up a few variations, pair it with something fresh off the grill, and enjoy your own twist on this breezy classic.
