For inside tips on tropical vodka drinks, we talked to Gianvito Bartucci, the bartender at JBar in Chicago. Bartucci has been mixing drinks in the Windy City for more than 12 years, the last four at this popular bar at The James Hotel.
More From This Bartender
Gianvito (Gianni) Bartucci's Picks
- Razz-mopolitan
- Madras
- Vodka Bay Breeze
- White Gummy Bear
Razz-mopolitan
How do you make it?
Ingredients:
1 1/2 ounce Stoli Razberi
1/2 ounce Cointreau
1/2 ounce lime juice
1 ounce cranberry juice
Instructions:
Put all ingredients into a shaker. Shake and strain into a martini glass. Use a fresh raspberry for garnish.
How would you describe its taste?
It is a raspberry flavored cocktail.
When is it best to drink?
At a bar or social event with friends.
Who drinks it?
This drink is geared more toward the female clientele.
Madras
How do you make it?
Ingredients:
1 1/2 ounces vodka
1 ounce cranberry juice
1 ounce orange juice
Instructions:
Stir together and serve in a rocks glass over ice.
How would you describe its taste?
It's a fruity cranberry and orange flavored cocktail.
When is it best to drink?
It's great in the summertime.
Who drinks it?
Both men and women enjoy the Madras. Men tend to drink this cocktail when they want to drink something light.
Vodka Bay Breeze
How do you make it?
Ingredients:
1 1/2 ounces vodka
1 ounce cranberry juice
1 ounce pineapple juice
Instructions:
Serve in a rocks glass over ice.
How would you describe its taste?
A Vodka Bay Breeze has lots of tropical pineapple -- with cranberry flavor.
When is it best to drink?
This is popular in clubs and at social events.
Who drinks it?
Younger drinkers tend to go for this drink.
White Gummy Bear
How do you make it?
Ingredients:
1 ounce raspberry vodka
1/2 ounce peach schnapps
Splash of Sprite
Splash of sour mix
Instructions:
Put all ingredients in a shot glass one at a time and serve.
How would you describe its taste?
It actually tastes like a white gummy bear!
When is it best to drink?
At a club where your friends are drinking shots.
Who drinks it?
Anyone celebrating with shots.
More From This Bartender
Gianvito (Gianni) Bartucci
What are your favorite tropical vodka drinks?
The Razz-mopolitan and the Madras.
What are your customers' favorite tropical vodka drinks?
Ciroc Coconut with pineapple juice.