This bright, zesty cocktail is as eye-catching as it is refreshing. The Red Alert brings together tart cranberry, fresh lime, and a touch of sweetness-rounded out with cool mint and a clean vodka base. It’s one of those drinks that instantly lifts your mood, especially on a warm day or when you’re winding down after a long week. I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: always use fresh lime juice-it makes all the difference.
Red Alert
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass: Highball or Collins glass
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
– 3 oz (90 ml) cranberry juice
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice (about ½ lime)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– 4-6 fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes
– Lime wedge and mint sprig, for garnish
Method
- Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it halfway with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Slap the mint leaves gently between your palms to release their oils, then drop them into the shaker.
- Shake well for about 15-20 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Fill a highball or Collins glass with fresh ice.
- Strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and a mint sprig.
Tips for the Best Red Alert
– Use fresh lime juice. Bottled just doesn’t have the same brightness.
– Chill your glass ahead of time for an extra crisp sip.
– Don’t overdo the syrup. Too much can overpower the tangy cranberry and lime.
– Mint matters. Use fresh, perky leaves-not wilted ones-for the best flavor and look.
Make-Ahead Notes
Hosting a party? You can batch this cocktail!
Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix everything in a pitcher-except the ice and mint. Keep it chilled in the fridge, then shake with ice and mint just before serving.
Storage
– Store leftover mixed cocktail (without ice or mint) in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
– Fresh mint wilts quickly, so garnish only when you’re ready to serve.
Ingredient Swaps
– Vodka: Try gin for a more botanical twist.
– Simple syrup: Use agave syrup or honey for a natural sweetness.
– Mint: Basil leaves can give a fun, herbal kick.
What It Tastes Like
Sweet, tart, and super refreshing. The cranberry gives it that bold red color and a fruity tang, while lime adds zip. The mint cools things down and rounds out the flavors beautifully. It’s a drink that feels light, but still packs a punch flavor-wise.
Serving Suggestions
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights. It’s especially great with:
Spicy Tacos
The cool mint and cranberry balance out spicy fillings like chipotle chicken or jalapeño slaw.
Grilled Chicken
The smoky flavor of grilled meat complements the cocktail’s brightness.
Fresh Garden Salads
A crisp green salad with citrus vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the tart and sweet notes.
Variations
Tropical Red Alert
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) pineapple juice
– Keep the rest of the ingredients the same
– Shake and strain as usual
Adds a juicy, island-style twist
Spicy Red Alert
– Muddle 2 thin jalapeño slices with the mint before shaking
– Everything else stays the same
Gives a warming kick that plays well with the mint
Berry Red Alert
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) mixed berry purée
– Reduce cranberry juice to 2 oz (60 ml)
Deepens the fruitiness and adds texture
Virgin Red Alert
– Replace vodka with sparkling water or lemon-lime soda
– Mix all other ingredients (minus alcohol) in a shaker
– Shake and pour over ice, garnish as usual
Just as refreshing without the booze
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lime juice?
You can, but fresh lime juice gives a cleaner, brighter flavor.
What’s the best vodka for this?
Go for a smooth, mid-range vodka-nothing fancy, just clean and neutral.
Can I skip the simple syrup?
Yes, especially if your cranberry juice is sweetened. Taste and adjust.
How do I make this cocktail spicier?
Muddle in jalapeño or add a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Mix everything except ice and mint. Shake with ice and garnish just before serving.
Other garnish ideas?
Try basil, rosemary, or even a few frozen cranberries for a festive touch.
This colorful cocktail is fun, easy to make, and great for parties-or just a relaxing evening on the porch. It’s one of those drinks you’ll come back to again and again.
