Vodka Red Bull
The Vodka Red Bull is a highball drink consisting of vodka and Red Bull energy drink. It rose to prominence in the late 1990s and 2000s, becoming a staple in bars, nightclubs, and parties worldwide. Its combination of a depressant (alcohol) and a stimulant (caffeine, taurine) is known for providing an energetic buzz, making it a popular choice for late-night socializing. The taste is dominated by the sweet, tangy, and distinct flavor of Red Bull, with the vodka providing the alcoholic kick.
Preparation
Preparation time: 1 minute
Preparation time
Difficulty
Drink Classification
The Vodka Red Bull is classified as a mixed drink, specifically a highball, which is a simple combination of a spirit and a larger portion of a non-alcoholic mixer served in a tall glass. It is not typically considered a "cocktail" in the traditional, craft sense but rather a popular modern party drink.
Serving
Served cold over ice in a tall highball glass, this is a simple, no-fuss drink. Its alcohol content is moderate, though the stimulant effect can sometimes mask the feeling of intoxication.
Serving size
240-300 ml / 8-10 oz
Alcohol content
Approximately 10-15% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Highball
Glass treatment
None
Backstory
While mixing alcohol with caffeine is an old practice, the Vodka Red Bull's popularity surged with the global marketing success of Red Bull in the late 1990s. It was popularized as a party drink, particularly in the clubbing scene, promising to keep drinkers energized throughout the night. It is not a drink with a storied craft history but rather a product of modern beverage culture and branding.
Origin
The drink has no single point of origin but emerged globally in the late 1990s and early 2000s as Red Bull became a widely available mixer in bars and clubs.
Vodka Red Bull
The drink is most commonly known as Vodka Red Bull, a straightforward name describing its two ingredients. It is often shortened to the acronym "VRB" in casual conversation or when ordering in a loud environment. "Energy Vodka" is a more generic descriptor for any mix of vodka and an energy drink.
Original name
Vodka Red Bull
Alternative names
- VRB
- Energy Vodka
Characteristics overview
This drink's profile is dominated by the artificial fruit and candy-like notes of the energy drink, delivering a sweet and tangy experience. Its bubbly texture and golden hue make it visually distinct and easy to drink.
Flavor
Sweet, Tangy, Fruity, Sharp
Aroma
Sweet, Fruity, Candy-like
Taste balance
Sweet, Sour
Aftertaste
Lingering sweetness, Tangy
Fizziness
Carbonated, Effervescent
Color appearance
Golden, Translucent, Bubbly
Texture
Thin, Bubbly, Watery
Seasonality
Year-round, Nightlife
Flavor intensity & Experience
The flavor intensity is high, driven by the strong sweetness and carbonation from the energy drink. The alcohol is present but often masked by the dominant sweet and tangy notes.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation
Ingredients
This is a classic two-ingredient drink, requiring only a standard spirit and a popular mixer. The key is to use chilled Red Bull to maintain the drink's temperature and crispness.
- Vodka60 ml / 2 ozA neutral, unflavored vodka works best to not clash with the strong flavor of the energy drink.
- Red Bull Energy Drink120-180 ml / 4-6 ozMust be well chilled to ensure a refreshing drink.
Ice type
- Cubed
Mixing equipments
No special equipment is needed, as the drink is simply built in the glass. A bar spoon can be used for a very light stir, but it's often served unstirred.
- Highball glass for serving
- Bar spoon (optional for a gentle stir)
Instructions
Preparation is extremely straightforward: simply build the ingredients over ice directly in the serving glass. The only key is a gentle hand if stirring to preserve the fizz.
1. Fill a highball glass to the top with ice cubes.
2. Pour the vodka over the ice.
3. Top up the glass with chilled Red Bull Energy Drink.
4. Give a brief, gentle stir with a bar spoon if desired, to combine without losing carbonation.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with a lemon or lime wedge if you prefer.
Garnishing
The Vodka Red Bull is almost always served without a garnish, emphasizing its simple and functional nature as a party drink.
- Lemon or Lime Wedge (Optional)
Dietary Information
The main dietary consideration is its high caffeine and sugar content. Assuming a distilled vodka is used, the drink is gluten-free and free from most common allergens like dairy, nuts, and eggs.
✓ Contains alcohol
✕ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly
Nutrition information
This drink's nutritional profile is defined by its high sugar and carbohydrate content, all coming from the energy drink mixer. This makes it a moderately high-calorie beverage.
Calories
Averagely 160-200 kcal / 670-840 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Averagely 27-30 grams
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Averagely 27-30 grams
Sugar level
Occasions
This drink is quintessentially a party starter, ideal for high-energy settings like nightclubs, music festivals, and late-night parties. It's a go-to choice for those looking to stay energized while socializing.
- Nightclubbing
- Parties
- Social Gatherings
- Pre-gaming
Pairing suggestions
The Vodka Red Bull is rarely consumed with food and is not considered a pairing drink. Its intense sweetness means that if anything is consumed alongside, it would typically be simple, salty bar snacks to provide a contrast.
- Salty snacks (chips, pretzels)
The Vodka Red Bull: The Quintessential Party Starter
The Vodka Red Bull is a globally popular highball known for its energizing effects. Combining the stimulant properties of an energy drink with the depressant effects of vodka, it became a nightlife staple in the late 1990s. It's incredibly simple to make, requiring just two ingredients poured over ice. Its taste is dominated by the sweet, tangy flavor of Red Bull, making it a go-to for those seeking a straightforward, potent, and stimulating alcoholic beverage for a long night out.