Victory Collins
A refreshing variation of the classic Collins family, the Victory Collins substitutes gin for vodka and introduces the unique, tart profile of unsweetened grape juice. Sweetened slightly with powdered sugar and balanced with fresh lemon, it creates a vibrant, thirst-quenching cooler perfect for warm afternoons.
What it tastes like
The aroma is dominated by sharp citrus and the subtle mustiness of unsweetened grape juice. On the palate, the drink is aggressively tart with a thin texture and a neutral alcoholic backbone. The finish is short and dry, leaving a lingering acidity on the tongue.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Vodka1.5 oz
- Lemon Juice3 oz
- Unsweetened Grape Juice3 oz
- Powdered Sugar1 tsp
- Orange1 slice
Preparation
- 1
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- 2
Add the vodka, lemon juice, unsweetened grape juice, and powdered sugar to the shaker.
- 3
Shake vigorously until the mixture is well-chilled and the sugar has dissolved.
- 4
Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice cubes.
- 5
Garnish with a slice of orange and serve immediately.
Substitutions
- VodkaGin — Gin adds botanical notes like juniper and coriander that complement the grape juice.
- Powdered SugarSimple Syrup — Simple syrup integrates more quickly and provides a smoother texture than powdered sugar.
- Unsweetened Grape JuicePomegranate Juice — This swap maintains the tartness but introduces a deeper red fruit flavor and more tannin.
- Lemon JuiceLime Juice — Lime juice offers a sharper, more floral acidity compared to the brightness of lemon.
Variations
Sparkling Victory
Top the drink with two ounces of club soda to add carbonation and lighten the heavy acidity.
Honey Victory
Replace the powdered sugar with honey syrup to introduce a floral sweetness and a richer mouthfeel.