The Nixon is one of those cocktails that feels like sunshine in a glass—bright, refreshing, and just a little bit unexpected. With citrusy zing, a hint of nutty sweetness, and fizzy ginger ale to top it all off, it’s an easygoing drink that always hits the spot. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, especially on warm evenings with friends on the patio. It’s simple to mix, but never boring—and today, I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner drinks with you.
Nixon
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass: Highball or Collins
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) Amaretto liqueur
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
– A dash of bitters (Angostura or orange bitters work well)
– Ginger ale, to top up
– Ice cubes
– Optional garnish: lime wedge or fresh mint sprig
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop your highball or Collins glass in the freezer for a few minutes, or fill it with ice water while you prep the ingredients.
- Fill the glass with ice. You want it nice and cold—this drink is best served frosty and refreshing.
- Pour in the vodka and Amaretto. Measure 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka and 0.5 oz (15 ml) Amaretto directly over the ice.
- Add the lime juice and bitters. Squeeze in 0.5 oz (15 ml) of fresh lime juice and add a dash of bitters. Fresh juice really makes a difference here—it brightens everything up.
- Top with ginger ale. Gently pour in ginger ale until the glass is nearly full. Leave a little room to stir.
- Stir gently. Use a long spoon to give it a gentle stir—just enough to mix the flavors without losing the bubbles.
- Garnish and serve. Add a lime wedge or a sprig of mint for a fresh finishing touch. Sip and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh lime juice—bottled just doesn’t have the same zing.
– Chill your ingredients beforehand to keep the drink cooler longer without diluting it.
– Don’t skip the bitters. Even just a dash adds depth and rounds out the sweetness.
Make-Ahead Note
Hosting a group? You can prep a big batch of the base (vodka, Amaretto, lime juice, and bitters) in advance. Store it in the fridge, then top each glass with ginger ale just before serving to keep things fizzy.
Storage
This cocktail’s best made fresh, but if you’ve mixed a batch of the base (without the ginger ale), it’ll keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Ingredient Swaps
– Vodka: Try gin for a more herbal, botanical version.
– Amaretto: Hazelnut liqueur or even almond syrup (for a non-alcoholic version) can work.
– Ginger ale: Swap with tonic water for a crisper, less sweet drink—or ginger beer for extra spice.
– Lime: Lemon works in a pinch. It’s a bit sharper, but still refreshing.
Flavor Variations
Spiced Nixon
Add a cinnamon stick and a star anise to the glass before pouring in your liquids. Let them sit a minute or two to gently infuse the drink.
Summer Berry Nixon
Muddle a handful of fresh berries (like raspberries or blackberries) at the bottom of the glass before adding the rest. Adds color and a sweet-tart twist.
Herbal Nixon
Muddle a few leaves of fresh basil or thyme with the lime juice before building the drink. It adds a lovely aromatic layer.
Virgin Nixon (Mocktail)
Mix ginger ale with lime juice and a splash of almond syrup. It’s light, zesty, and just as enjoyable without the booze.
Serving Suggestions
This drink is super versatile and pairs well with food that’s either light and fresh or bold and spicy. Here are a few favorites:
Grilled Chicken Skewers
The lime and ginger ale cut through the savory, smoky flavor of grilled meat perfectly.
Fresh Summer Salads
Think leafy greens, citrusy vinaigrettes, and maybe some goat cheese. The bright flavors complement the drink beautifully.
Spicy Asian Dishes
Whether it’s Thai noodles or spicy dumplings, the Nixon’s sweet-citrusy balance cools down the heat and brings out the flavor.
Common Questions
Can I make a batch for a party?
Yes! Just multiply the base ingredients (vodka, Amaretto, lime juice, bitters) by the number of guests and mix in a pitcher. Top each glass with ginger ale when serving.
What if I don’t have bitters?
You can skip them, but the drink may feel a little flat. If you have orange peel, twist it over the glass for a similar effect.
How do I make it look festive?
Garnish with a colorful fruit skewer, fresh herbs, or even a fun paper straw for that party vibe.
Can I make it frozen?
Absolutely. Blend everything with a cup of ice for a slushy version—great for hot summer days.
What’s a good low-sugar option?
Use diet ginger ale or soda water with a splash of lime juice. You can also sweeten lightly with honey or agave instead of Amaretto.
Final Thoughts
The Nixon is one of those cocktails that’s easy to love and even easier to make. It’s not fussy, but it still feels special—perfect for a relaxed evening or a cheerful get-together. Whether you stick with the classic or put your own twist on it, you’ll end up with a drink that’s crisp, flavorful, and just plain fun to sip.
