Cape Codder

Pro tips

• Juice fresh limes immediately before mixing—oxidized lime juice loses aromatic oils and tastes flat.
• Chill the glass before pouring to keep the drink cold longer without over-diluting with extra ice.
• Use a 1:2 ratio of vodka to cranberry juice as a baseline, then adjust sweetness with the lime half—start with juice from one lime wedge and add more if needed.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Rum → any white or spiced rum (shifts flavor from neutral to warm and complex)
• Cranberry juice → cranberry-vodka cocktail mix (faster but adds artificial sweeteners)

Can I use rum instead of vodka?

Yes. The recipe also works with Old Mr. Boston Rum as the spirit base, though the flavor profile shifts from clean to spiced or molasses-forward depending on rum type.

Should I use fresh lime juice or bottled?

Fresh lime juice is strongly recommended for brightness and accuracy. Bottled lime juice has a flat taste and won't balance the cranberry sweetness as well.

What glassware should I use?

Serve in a highball or rocks glass over ice. A tall highball is traditional for this drink.

Can I batch or make this ahead?

Mix the vodka and cranberry juice in advance and chill. Add fresh lime juice and ice just before serving to preserve citrus flavor and carbonation if using sparkling cranberry juice.