Our Most Popular Cocktail Recipe Of 2024 So Far

If you haven’t been sipping on this grape cocktail all spring and summer long, you’ve been missing out. Whether you’re a golfer, married to one, or just know someone who likes to golf—chances are you’re familiar with a Classic Transfusion.

This popular drink might be most often enjoyed on the golf course, but it’s a crowd-favorite well beyond the greens. If you've ever had one of these refreshing cocktails, you understand why it's our most popular cocktail of 2024 so far.

What Is A Transfusion Cocktail? 

It’s a simple, grape-flavored boozy beverage made with four common ingredients: vodka, grape juice, lime juice, and ginger ale. Some people (like myself) use ginger beer in lieu of ale for a stronger ginger flavor and a little more of that zingy spice, while others prefer Sprite or Fresca to get the carbonation without the additional flavor.

Why Is It Called A Transfusion? 

Nobody is really sure! While its origins are unknown, some say the name came from the drink’s “hangover remedy” characteristics. Grape juice provides electrolytes and sugar, ginger ale adds carbonation to help settle an upset stomach, and vodka give the hair-of-the-dog punch. 

Why We Love A Transfusion—On And Off The Golf Course

What’s not to love about this cocktail? Over the years the slightly sweet beverage, fondly known as “golf’s greatest drink,” has easily become the preferred order at golf courses across the country, but is also beloved as an at home big-batch drink for warm weather shindigs.

• It’s light and refreshing. Thanks to the tartness of lime juice that cuts the sweetness of the grape juice and ginger ale, it's a perfectly balanced cocktail.
• The ingredient list is short. Not only do you only need four ingredients to make a Transfusion, they are all inexpensive. (Aside from your choice of vodka.)
• It's super easy to make. Just pour the ingredients straight in your cup (highball glass recommended) filled with ice. No shaker required!
• The color is eye-catching. Thanks to the grape juice, the beverage's vibrant hue looks quite nice in a pitcher or punch bowl! Float lime wheels in it for a contrasting pop of green.

What Reviewers Are Saying

“Great, and very easy. For non-drinkers, just leave out the vodka. Still festive!”

“Good base. Try it with ginger beer and cran-grape for extra spicy, full-body transfusion.”