19 Vodka Cocktails to Suit Any Mood

The clear spirit goes with just about anything, and shines brightest in these expert-chosen recipes.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 10:55am

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Vodka is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in a variety of cocktails to match any mood, from contemplative martinis to high-spirited espresso martinis and hangover-curing Bloody Marys. Esquire magazine asked vodka brands and the staff at Manhattan bar Jac's on Bond to recommend their favorite vodka cocktail recipes.

Why it matters

Vodka is one of the most popular and widely consumed spirits in the world, known for its ability to blend seamlessly into a wide range of cocktails. This article provides readers with a comprehensive list of 19 unique and flavorful vodka cocktail recipes that can be tailored to different moods and occasions.

The details

The article covers a variety of vodka cocktail recipes, including classics like the martini and Bloody Mary, as well as more modern and creative concoctions like the espresso martini. The recipes are sourced from expert mixologists and vodka brands, ensuring high-quality and delicious cocktails. The article also provides some historical context on vodka's popularity, noting that many people's first experience with the spirit is often at college parties or 21st birthday celebrations.

  • The article was published on January 30, 2026.

The players

Sylvia Plath

A renowned American poet and novelist who famously wrote about her experiences with vodka in her novel 'The Bell Jar'.

Jac's on Bond

A popular cocktail bar located in Manhattan, New York that provided some of the vodka cocktail recommendations featured in the article.

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What they’re saying

“I began to think vodka was my drink at last. It didn't taste like anything, but it went straight down into my stomach like a sword swallowers' sword and made me feel powerful and godlike.”

— Sylvia Plath

The takeaway

This article provides readers with a comprehensive guide to 19 delicious and versatile vodka cocktail recipes that can be tailored to suit any mood or occasion, cementing vodka's status as a chameleon-like spirit that can be enjoyed in a wide variety of creative and flavorful ways.