The Wop is one of those crowd-pleasing cocktails that’s made for sharing. It’s fruity, fizzy, and refreshingly simple-perfect for hot summer afternoons, backyard parties, or whenever you want something bright and fun in your glass. I’ve made this drink countless times for friends, and it never fails to disappear fast. It’s easy to mix up and even easier to customize with whatever fruit or mixer you’ve got on hand.
Wop
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 (easily scaled up for a group)
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
– 3 oz (90 ml) fruit punch
– 2 oz (60 ml) lemon-lime soda
– Ice
– Fresh fruit for garnish (orange slices, lemon wheels, lime wedges)
Tools
– Shaker (or a mason jar with a lid)
– Highball glass (or a large punch bowl if serving a crowd)
– Knife and cutting board for slicing fruit
Method
- Fill a shaker with ice. Pour in the vodka and fruit punch.
- Shake well-about 10-15 seconds-until it’s nice and chilled.
- Fill your highball glass with ice. Strain the mixture into the glass.
- Top with lemon-lime soda. Give it a gentle stir to combine.
- Garnish with slices of orange, lemon, or lime. Serve right away while it’s fizzy and cold.
Tips & Tricks
– Chill your glass ahead of time for an extra-refreshing sip. Just pop it in the freezer for 10 minutes.
– Use fresh fruit for garnish-it adds flavor and color.
– Don’t over-shake if your shaker isn’t sealed tightly. A gentle shake does the trick.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the vodka and fruit punch up to a day in advance and keep it chilled in the fridge. Just wait to add the soda until serving so it stays bubbly.
Ingredient Swaps
– Swap vodka for white rum or tequila for a twist.
– No lemon-lime soda? Try ginger ale or sparkling water for a lighter version.
– Use homemade fruit punch or any juice blend you like-pineapple, cranberry, or tropical blends work great.
Flavor & Vibe
The Wop is fruity, slightly sweet, and a little fizzy-like a grown-up fruit punch with a kick. Think watermelon at a picnic, or that first cold sip after mowing the lawn. It’s super flexible, so you can make it as light or bold as you like.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the porch. Something about the combination of fruit and bubbles just hits the spot.
Serving Suggestions
The Wop shines as a party drink. If you’re making it for a group, multiply the ingredients and serve it in a big punch bowl with lots of ice and floating fruit slices.
Try it with:
– Grilled chicken: The citrusy notes pair perfectly with smoky, charred flavors.
– Seafood: Light dishes like shrimp skewers or ceviche balance the Wop’s sweetness.
– Spicy foods: Cool off with a sip between bites of spicy tacos or wings.
Recipe Variations
Tropical Wop
– Swap vodka for coconut rum
– Add a splash of pineapple juice
– Garnish with pineapple chunks and a cherry
Berry Wop
– Add a shot of berry liqueur (like Chambord or raspberry schnapps)
– Toss in some fresh berries-blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries
Non-Alcoholic Wop
– Replace vodka with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic spirit
– Keep the fruit punch and soda
– Garnish generously for that festive feel
Storage
Wop is best served fresh, but you can store the vodka and punch mix in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Always add soda and ice just before serving to keep it fizzy and bright.
Common Questions
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients by how many people you’re serving. Mix everything but the soda, then add soda just before serving.
What fruits work best as garnish?
Citrus fruits like lemon, lime, and orange slices look great and add flavor. You can also use berries or melon cubes.
How can I make it less sweet?
Try using a low-sugar or no-sugar fruit punch and soda. You can also add a splash of sparkling water to balance it out.
What’s the best vodka to use?
Go with a smooth, mid-range vodka that you’d enjoy on its own. No need to splurge, but avoid the super cheap stuff.
Final Pour
Whether you’re mixing one up for yourself or filling a punch bowl for friends, the Wop is all about easy fun and fruity flavor. It’s endlessly customizable, super refreshing, and totally beginner-friendly. Try one version-or three-and see which combo you love best.
