The Viola cocktail is a refreshing, floral drink with a stunning purple hue—perfect for warm evenings or a stylish gathering. Its delicate balance of vodka, violet liqueur, and citrus creates a light, slightly sweet flavor with a refreshing finish. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and it never fails to impress with its vibrant color and smooth taste. Let’s get mixing!
Viola
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) vodka
- 1 oz (30ml) violet liqueur (adds the signature floral note and color)
- 0.5 oz (15ml) fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup (adjust to taste for sweetness)
- Club soda (to top off the drink)
- Ice
- Edible violet flowers (for garnish—optional but beautiful!)
Glass: A highball glass works best, but a Collins glass is a great alternative.
How to Make a Viola Cocktail
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, violet liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well for about 15 seconds until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with edible violet flowers for an elegant touch.
Tip: Always use fresh lemon juice—it makes a huge difference in flavor!
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
This cocktail is light and floral, making it a great match for:
- Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese
- Seafood, especially shrimp or scallops
- Fresh fruit, such as berries or citrus slices
I love sipping a Viola alongside a simple cheese board—it brings out the floral and citrus notes beautifully!
Customizing Your Viola
Want to switch things up? Here are a few easy variations:
- Gin Viola: Swap vodka for gin to add a botanical twist.
- Honey Viola: Replace simple syrup with honey for a natural sweetness.
- Tonic Viola: Use tonic water instead of club soda for a slightly bitter edge.
Fun Variations to Try
Blue Viola
- Swap violet liqueur for blue curaçao for a striking blue version.
Rosé Viola
- Add a splash of rosé wine after straining for a subtle wine-infused twist.
Mint Viola
- Muddle fresh mint leaves in the shaker before adding the other ingredients for a refreshing herbal note.
Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace the vodka and violet liqueur with grape juice and a splash of lemon juice for a delicious mocktail.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Make ahead: Mix everything except the club soda and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake again before serving.
- Storage: Keep simple syrup refrigerated for up to 2 weeks in a sealed container.
FAQs
What gives the Viola its purple color?
The violet liqueur! It not only adds color but also a delicate floral sweetness.
Can I use a different alcohol?
Yes! Gin works great for a more botanical flavor, or rum for a slightly richer taste.
How can I make it healthier?
Use honey instead of simple syrup and reduce the sweetness to taste.
What’s the best garnish?
Edible violet flowers are classic, but a thin lemon twist also looks beautiful.
This cocktail is as fun to make as it is to drink, and it’s sure to impress with its stunning color and delicate floral flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it on a summer evening or serving it at a gathering, the Viola is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
