By Sadie Sullivan
This summer, the coolest cocktails are not the ones packed with complicated ingredients or elaborate garnishes.
They’re the ones that feel effortless.
Simple spritzes. Fresh citrus. Good vodka. Refreshing drinks that are easy to make and easy to sip on a patio, by the pool or on a balcony.
Just in time for the warm weather, Finlandia Vodka launched its new Grapefruit Vodka in Ontario, a bright citrus addition ideal for light, citrus cocktails. To celebrate, Finnish mixologist Pekka Pellinen served drinks to Canadians with a focus on fresh herbs, bright berries, clean citrus and quality vodka.
“Good vodka is the foundation for expression,” says Pellinen. “You don’t need to mask it with too many ingredients. Grapefruit adds freshness and a little bitterness without feeling heavy, which makes Finlandia’s grapefruit vodka perfect for a Paloma or a simple spritz.”
That approach feels especially aligned with how Canadians want to entertain right now. There is a growing appreciation for cocktails that feel elevated but approachable. Simple cocktails that look beautiful, taste clean, and work just as well for a dinner party as they do for an afternoon on a patio.
In Finland, simplicity is considered a sign of confidence. For Pellinen, the best cocktails are the ones people naturally come back to throughout the evening. Easy to drink and memorable without demanding attention.
Here are two cocktails that fit the bill and will be on rotation all summer long.
Finlandia Grapefruit Fizz
1.5 oz Finlandia Grapefruit Vodka
1 oz lemon juice
0.75 oz simple syrup
0.5 oz egg white
1 dash club soda
Dry shake Finlandia Grapefruit, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake again with ice, strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice, top with soda water, and garnish with a lime and lemon twist.
Finlandia Paloma
2 oz Finlandia Grapefruit Vodka
3-4 oz grapefruit soda
0.5 oz fresh lime juice
0.25 oz simple syrup or agave nectar, optional
Pour all ingredients into a glass over ice, stir. Garnish with a lime wedge or a grapefruit slice.