Pickle Flavored Vodka is Not For the Faint of Heart
the There are few flavors as polarizing in the world of spirits as pickle flavored vodka. Loved by some and loathed by others, it’s a divisive darling of the cocktail scene. For pickle enthusiasts, this briny infusion offers a savory, salty kick unlike anything else in the vodka aisle. For others, the mere thought of sipping something that tastes like a deli jar might elicit a shudder.
Still, the appeal of this oddball elixir is growing. Whether it’s because of late-night bar dares, quirky mixology trends, or an actual craving for salt and vinegar tang, pickle vodka has secured a cult following. So, let’s take a lighthearted dive into the green, briny depths of this curious concoction.
A Word from the Distiller
While Felene Vodka is known for its clean, neutral profile, even we appreciate a little brine now and then. As Tim Kelly, Felene’s Master Distiller, explains:
“We’re fans of the briny stuff—it’s fun, funky, and undeniably bold. But we’ve got no plans to make it ourselves. We’ll leave that to the pros and stick to what we do best: clean, smooth vodka with no additives.”
If you’re looking to try pickle vodka without crafting it at home, we highly recommend checking out Dirty Dill, a local Denver favorite. Their pickle-infused vodka is beloved by fans across the country and delivers all the tangy intensity you’d expect. Best of all, it’s available for delivery nationwide through their website: dirtydill.com.
The Pickle Craze: Why We Love (or Hate) the Brine
Pickle juice has long had its defenders. Athletes drink it for electrolytes. Hungover souls swear by its restorative properties. Chefs use it to punch up recipes. Its appeal? A unique combination of acidity, saltiness, and umami that stimulates the palate and wakes up the taste buds.
The reason some people crave pickle juice, or by extension, pickle vodka, may lie in their body’s need for sodium. After intense sweating, illness, or even a boozy night out, the body may demand salt to restore balance. For others, the intense flavor offers a sensory adventure—a shock to the system that’s oddly satisfying.
However, for the brine-averse, that pungent aroma and sharp flavor profile may evoke memories of overstuffed lunchboxes or vinegary mishaps in the kitchen. That’s okay—pickle vodka isn’t for everyone. But for the bold and curious, it can be a spirited delight.
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DIY Pickle Vodka: Brine It Yourself
For those wanting to dip their toes into this zesty flavor trend without committing to a whole bottle, homemade pickle vodka is shockingly simple. Here’s how to make it at home:
Ingredients
- 1 cup vodka (your favorite brand)
- 1/3 cup pickle juice (use dill for classic flavor)
- Optional: 1 garlic clove or a sprig of dill
Instructions
- In a clean mason jar, combine vodka and pickle juice.
- Add optional ingredients for extra flair.
- Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours.
- Strain (if desired) and serve chilled.
The result? A savory, spicy, and slightly sour infusion that’s ready to amp up your next cocktail creation.
Top 5 Cocktails Featuring Pickle Vodka
Once you’ve got your pickle vodka in hand, what’s next? These five popular drinks show off the tangy potential of this unique spirit:
1. The Pickleback Martini
A riff on the classic dirty martini, this cocktail blends pickle vodka and dry vermouth. Garnish with a gherkin or cocktail onion.
2. The Briny Mary
Upgrade your Bloody Mary with pickle vodka. Add a dash of hot sauce and a dill spear for the ultimate brunch sip.
3. Pickle Mule
This twist on the Moscow Mule adds pickle vodka to ginger beer and lime. Serve in a copper mug with a pickle slice.
4. Pickletini
Combine pickle vodka with a splash of olive brine and serve up. It’s the martini for those who live for savory over sweet.
5. The Pickle Shot
Simple and effective—just chilled pickle vodka in a shot glass. Often served alongside a beer, it’s a barroom rite of passage.
Pickle flavored vodka may never be a universal crowd-pleaser, but that’s part of the fun. Like pineapple on pizza or ranch on everything, it sparks conversation—and sometimes controversy. So, if you’re ready to pucker up and try something daring, grab a jar, pour a shot, and toast to the brine side of life.
