Cape Codder

The Cape Codder (or Cape Cod) is another name for the popular Vodka Cranberry, and it gets its name from the East Coast town in Massachusetts, which is known for growing cranberries. A simple mix of vodka and cranberry juice, poured tall in a glass and garnished with a lime wedge, it’s one of the easier-to-make cocktails you’ll come across. You don’t even have to shake it, strain it or employ any bar tools to make the Cape Codder.

When building the drink, you can use your preferred vodka, but there’s no need to choose one that’s too fancy or expensive. Any good, middle-of-the-road vodka will do, especially when paired with the sweet-tart flavor of cranberry juice. And the lime wedge isn’t just there for looks—it can be squeezed into the cocktail for a welcome dose of fresh citrus.

The Cape Codder is one of a series of drinks featuring vodka and cranberry juice and named for nautical or coastal themes. The Sea Breeze, for example, combines vodka, cranberry and grapefruit juice, while the Bay Breeze is vodka, cranberry and pineapple juice. Each of these simple cocktails is tasty and refreshing, whether you’re hanging out with the Kennedys aboard a yacht or drinking with your friends on the patio.