beefeater drinksplatform martini 2 4x5

7 vodka cocktails that taste better with gin

Vodka and gin might look alike, but they couldn’t taste more different. Vodka’s known for being neutral, while gin brings in bold botanicals — think citrus, juniper, spice. So when you swap vodka for gin in a classic cocktail? You’re not just changing the spirit, you’re upgrading the flavour.

Whether you’re out of vodka or just want to give your favourite drinks a botanical twist, gin steps up in style. In fact, some of the best ‘vodka cocktails’ taste even better with a splash of Beefeater. Curious why? Start with our guide on gin vs vodka — then get mixing.

Here are our top vodka and gin cocktails to try now.

ALL GIN COCKTAILS
beefeater drinksplatform martini 1 4x5

Gin Martini

The martini is often claimed by both vodka and gin drinkers — but historically, gin got there first. The classic martini started with gin, dry vermouth, and a lemon twist or olive. Vodka simply mellowed the taste.

With gin, especially a London Dry, you get a much more complex drink. It’s bright, herbal and citrus-forward. Try our Beefeater Gin Martini for the ultimate version, or mix it up with a Dirty Martini for a savoury serve. Want both? A Vesper Martini uses gin and vodka for the best of both worlds.

RECIPE HERE
beefeater pink gin cosmo 4x5

Cosmopolitan

The Cosmo is 90s cocktail royalty. Traditionally made with vodka, cranberry juice, lime and triple sec, it’s tart, crisp and always stylish. But swap in gin, and it becomes something even better — punchier, zestier and far more interesting.

Try the Pink Gin Cosmo for a berry-rich remix, or shake up a Rhubarb & Cranberry Cosmo using Beefeater Rhubarb & Cranberry for a modern twist that leans into the drink’s tart edge.

RECIPE HERE
zero mule

Moscow Mule

This spicy-sweet drink is usually made with vodka, lime and ginger beer — but a gin mule has a lot more to say. That hint of citrus and spice from Beefeater lifts the ginger, making every sip feel fresher and brighter.

We love it in summer, poured over ice and served with a wedge of lime. Try the Beefeater 0.0% Mule for a non-alcoholic version that still delivers on flavour.

RECIPE HERE
red snapper cocktail

Bloody Mary

The ultimate savoury cocktail — and the ultimate Sunday serve. Vodka makes this one smooth, but gin adds real flavour. That savoury, herby backdrop from Beefeater turns the whole thing up a notch.

We call our version the Beefeater Red Snapper, and it’s a proper brunch showstopper. Garnish with a celery stick, olives, or even a pickle spear if you’re feeling bold.

RECIPE HERE
beefeater cocktail Orange Gin Espresso Martini

Espresso Martini

Vodka might be the standard here, but once you try it with gin you’ll never look back. Beefeater Gin brings a bright botanical contrast that cuts through the richness of the coffee.

The result? A fresher take on the classic that still gives you that caffeine kick. Shake up our Orange Gin Espresso Martini, with extra citrus punch to see what we mean.

RECIPE HERE

Woo Woo

This fruity favourite gets an easy glow-up with gin. The usual recipe includes vodka, peach schnapps and cranberry juice — sweet, tropical and bold.

To make it with gin, mix 50ml Beefeater with 25ml peach schnapps and 50ml cranberry juice. Shake with ice, strain into a highball glass, and garnish with a slice of orange. It’s summer in a glass.

Screwdriver

A total classic, and one of the simplest vodka cocktails out there. The original just uses vodka and orange juice — but gin gives it real character.

To make it, pour 50ml Beefeater over ice and top with 100ml orange juice. Stir gently and garnish with a wedge of orange. Still refreshing, but now with a botanical twist.

Gin might not be the first spirit that comes to mind for these vodka favourites — but once you’ve tried the Beefeater twist, it’s hard to go back. 

 

Whether you’re swapping out vodka for fun or because the gin shelf’s calling your name, these remixes bring new life to old classics. So next time you’re shaking something up, reach for the Beefeater instead.

 

Discover more gin cocktail recipes from simple gin mixers to gin and tequila drinks.

READ THIS
NEXT

DRINK THIS
NEXT

beefeaterdry whitelady lifestyle serveonly scaled aspect ratio 735 735

Gin Cocktails

Beefeater White Lady

Beginner Cocktails

Sweet Cocktails

beefeater drinksplatform clover club 4x5 aspect ratio 735 735

Gin Cocktails

Clover Club

Intermediate Cocktails

Sweet Cocktails

beefeater drinksplatform french 75 4x5 aspect ratio 735 735

Gin Cocktails

French 75

Beginner Cocktails

Savoury Cocktails

Bees Knees: Gin, Honey & Lemon Cocktail Recipe - Beefeater Gin

Gin Cocktails

Bee’s Knees

Beginner Cocktails

Sour Cocktails

Sweet Cocktails

Classic Cocktails

RECIPES HERE

Signature Serves

RECIPES HERE