The Dirty Shirley is a fun and flavorful cocktail that brings an adult twist to the classic Shirley Temple. Made with cherry vodka, grenadine, lime juice, and topped off with lemon-lime soda, this drink combines sweet, tart, and fizzy elements for a refreshing beverage perfect for any casual gathering or party.
Tasting Notes
The first sip of a Dirty Shirley is vibrant and sweet, with the cherry vodka and grenadine providing a strong fruit-forward flavor. The sweetness is balanced by the citrusy kick of lime juice, which adds a refreshing tartness. The lemon-lime soda introduces a fizzy element, making each sip light and effervescent.
Overall, the cocktail is well-balanced, with the sweetness of the cherry and grenadine blending harmoniously with the tart lime and bubbly soda.
As you continue to drink, the flavors meld together even more, creating a smooth and satisfying experience. The cherry vodka’s depth comes through more prominently, giving the drink a slightly more robust taste, while the grenadine maintains its sweetness. The lime juice ensures the drink remains refreshing, preventing it from becoming overly sweet.
The lemon-lime soda keeps it lively and crisp, making it a perfect choice for a warm day or a festive occasion.
Tips & Tricks
Use a flavored soda, such as ginger ale or tonic water, instead of lemon-lime soda for a different twist.
Mix in a dash of bitters to add a hint of complexity and counterbalance the sweetness.
Recipe Card
Dirty Shirley
Nostalgia Meets Bold Flavors in Every Sip
Ingredients
- 2 oz cherry vodka
- 1 oz grenadine
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- 4 oz lemon-lime soda
Instructions
- Build in glass, starting with plenty of ice.
- Add all your ingredients, topping with soda last.
- Stir gently to combine, and serve.
Notes
Any flavor vodka will do here (including plain), but we suggest opting for a flavor that pairs well with pomegranate (such as a type of berry or citrus).
