A Vulcan cocktail is a vibrant, refreshing drink with a bold mix of citrus, spice, and a hint of sweetness. It’s the kind of cocktail that looks as striking as it tastes, with its deep blue hue and fizzy ginger beer topping. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress at gatherings—especially in the summer when something crisp and flavorful is just what you need.
Vulcan
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 1.5 oz (45ml) vodka
- 1 oz (30ml) blue curaçao
- 0.5 oz (15ml) fresh lime juice
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup
- A splash of ginger beer
- Ice
For garnish:
- Lime wheel or zest
Glass choice: A highball glass works best, but a Collins glass is a great alternative.
How to Make a Vulcan Cocktail
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, blue curaçao, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well until the mixture is chilled, about 10–15 seconds.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with a splash of ginger beer and give it a gentle stir.
- Garnish with a lime wheel or zest for a fresh, citrusy aroma.
Tips for the Best Vulcan
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor—bottled juice just won’t give the same brightness.
- Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the drink extra refreshing.
- Adjust the ginger beer to your taste—more for extra spice, less for a smoother sip.
- Want a lighter version? Swap simple syrup for honey or agave, or use diet ginger beer.
Make-Ahead & Storage
If you’re making this for a party, you can mix everything except the ginger beer ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just add ice, top with ginger beer, and garnish.
What to Serve with a Vulcan
This cocktail pairs well with foods that balance its bold, citrusy kick:
- Grilled meats – The smokiness works beautifully with the zesty ginger-lime flavors.
- Tropical salads – A fresh mango or pineapple salad complements the drink’s fruity notes.
- Sushi – The crisp, clean flavors make a great match, acting as a palate cleanser.
Fun Twists on the Vulcan
Want to mix things up? Try these variations:
Fiery Vulcan
- Add a slice of jalapeño to the shaker and muddle it before adding the other ingredients for a spicy kick.
Galactic Vulcan
- Swap blue curaçao for blackberry liqueur for a deep, cosmic purple color. Garnish with fresh blackberries.
Tropical Vulcan
- Add a splash of pineapple juice for a fruity, tropical vibe. Garnish with a pineapple wedge.
Virgin Vulcan
- Skip the vodka and replace it with club soda or extra ginger beer for a refreshing non-alcoholic version.
Common Questions
Can I make a Vulcan in advance?
Yes! Just mix everything except the ginger beer and store it in the fridge. Add the ginger beer when serving.
Is the Vulcan a strong drink?
It’s balanced—vodka gives it a kick, but the mixers keep it smooth and refreshing.
What if I don’t have blue curaçao?
Use a clear orange liqueur and add a drop of blue food coloring for the signature color.
Can I use diet ginger beer?
Absolutely! It’ll cut down on sugar while keeping that bold, spicy edge.
This cocktail is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re sipping it on a warm evening or shaking things up for a themed party. Give it a try, and feel free to tweak it to your taste!
