📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Vodka
Alcohol 14%
Calories 180 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 15g
Prep time 5 minutes
Imagine you’re at a party on a hot summer day, and someone hands you a drink that’s as cool as a polar breeze—that’s the Arctic Summer cocktail. In this article, we’ll explore its intriguing history, tantalizing taste, and how you can make it yourself. Let’s embark on this refreshing journey together. ⬇️
History
The Arctic Summer cocktail is a modern creation, designed to capture the essence of the North Pole’s chilling beauty. It’s a relatively new addition to the cocktail scene, known for its refreshing qualities. The drink has quickly become a summertime favorite for those seeking a cool escape.
- The name “Arctic Summer” was inspired by the crisp and invigorating sensations of the Arctic’s endless daylight summers.
- While its exact birthplace is unknown, the cocktail has made waves in trendy bars across the globe.
- Its popularity soared as it became associated with luxurious winter resorts seeking a summer-themed beverage.
The taste of an Arctic Summer?
An Arctic Summer tastes like a frosty adventure in a glass, with a blend of sweet and citrus that tickles your tongue. It’s like sipping on a liquid snowflake, with an invigorating chill that dances around flavors of mint and fruit.
I personally love drinking Arctic Summers because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Interesting facts about Arctic Summer
- The cocktail’s signature blue hue is often compared to the mesmerizing color of glacial ice.
- It’s a popular choice during heatwaves, with many fans claiming it’s the next best thing to air conditioning.
- The drink has been playfully dubbed “winter in a cup” by loyal enthusiasts who enjoy it year-round.
Ingredients
- Vodka: 2 oz (60 ml)
- Blue Curaçao: 1 oz (30 ml)
- Lemonade: 3 oz (90 ml)
- Soda: 1 oz (30 ml)
- Mint leaves: A small handful
- Ice cubes: As needed
A Highball glass is the ideal vessel for an Arctic Summer, allowing the colors and carbonation to mesmerize as you sip. Another fine choice could be a Mason jar, which adds a touch of rustic charm and is just as capable of showcasing the drink’s vibrant layers.
Recipe. How to make an Arctic Summer
- Muddle the Mint leaves in the bottom of the glass.
- Add ice cubes to fill the glass.
- Pour in the Vodka and Blue Curaçao.
- Top off with Lemonade and a splash of Soda for fizz.
- Garnish with an extra sprig of mint or a slice of lemon.
Arctic Summers can be sweet, which means they’re not the lightest in terms of sugar and calories. To make a healthier version, try using natural sweeteners or reducing the amount of Blue Curaçao. While it’s true that the drink isn’t a health elixir, a few sips of this icy potion won’t freeze your fitness goals.
Food Pairings
Pairing food with the Arctic Summer can elevate the drink and complement its flavors. Here are some mouthwatering matchups that harmonize with the cocktail’s profile.
Grilled Fish
The clean, crisp taste of an Arctic Summer cuts through the richness of grilled fish, creating a balance that’s as refreshing as a sea breeze.
Spicy Appetizers
The cooling effect of the mint and the citrus notes can provide a delightful contrast to the heat of spicy dishes, calming the palate with each sip.
Fruit Sorbet
The sweet and tangy elements of fruit sorbet mirror the cocktail’s flavor, making for a dessert pairing that’s both unified and invigorating.
I really enjoy the taste of Arctic Summers—the cool mint and zesty lime make it a perfect drink for relaxing after a long week.
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Bartender Advice
- To achieve the perfect chill, use plenty of ice when shaking or stirring your cocktail.
- For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with a twist of lemon or a fresh sprig of mint.
- Balance is key; ensure the sweetness and acidity are harmonized to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Arctic Summer, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Arctic Summer
- Vodka: Can be swapped for gin for a more botanical twist.
- Blue Curaçao: Use a splash of blue food coloring and orange liqueur for a similar effect with less sweetness.
- Lemonade: Opt for a homemade version to control the sugar level and enhance the natural flavors.
Arctic Summer Variations
Tropical Breeze
- Ingredients: Replace Blue Curaçao with coconut rum and add pineapple juice.
- Recipe: Combine ingredients over ice and garnish with a pineapple wedge.
Frozen Arctic Summer
- Ingredients: Same as the classic, but add ice into a blender.
- Recipe: Blend until smooth and serve with a straw and a dusting of powdered sugar.
Midnight Sun
- Ingredients: Mix in black raspberry liqueur instead of Blue Curaçao.
- Recipe: Layer the liqueur over the other components to create a sunset effect.
A non-alcoholic version of the Arctic Summer, or ‘Virgin Arctic Summer’, is just as refreshing. Swap out the vodka and Blue Curaçao for blueberry syrup and a dash of lemon-lime soda.
Q&A
Can I make an Arctic Summer ahead of time?
Sure! Mix all ingredients except the soda and ice, and chill it. Add the fizz and ice just before serving to keep it fresh and bubbly.
Is it possible to make a large batch for a party?
Absolutely, just multiply the ingredients based on the number of guests. Remember to add the soda last to preserve the sparkle.
What if I can’t find Blue Curaçao?
No worries! You can use a clear orange liqueur with a bit of blue food coloring to get that glacial look.
What are some non-alcoholic substitutes for vodka in the Virgin Arctic Summer?
Try using a mix of white grape juice and a hint of lime for a similar kick without the alcohol.
How can I make my Arctic Summer look more impressive?
Dress it up with creative garnishes like edible flowers, or serve it with a dramatic ice sphere for that ‘wow’ factor.
Is there a best time of year to enjoy an Arctic Summer?
While they’re perfect for hot weather, don’t let the seasons stop you—Arctic Summers are a delightful treat any time of year!
