Few things hit the spot like a Transfusion cocktail after a day on the golf course. This iconic drink combines the crispness of vodka with the fruity richness of Concord grape juice, the bright zest of fresh lime, and the bubbly sweetness of ginger ale. Whether you’re winding down from a round of golf or just looking for a light and flavorful drink, this cocktail with grape juice is a true game-changer.
Gina’s Recipe Highlights For A Transfusion Drink
The Transfusion drink has long been a favorite among golfers, but its light, fizzy, and subtly sweet taste makes it a great choice for any occasion. The combination of grape juice, lime, and ginger ale creates a perfectly balanced cocktail that is easy to make and delightfully refreshing.
This cocktail is also beginner-friendly, requiring just a few simple ingredients and no special bartending skills to prepare. It’s a fantastic choice for hosting, whether you’re serving it at an Ultimate Golf Party, a summer barbecue, or a Masters Watch Party. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, made with everyday ingredients that won’t break the bank. If you’re looking for variations, there are easy ingredient swaps to suit different preferences. Try diet ginger ale for a low-calorie version or swap vodka for a non-alcoholic alternative if you prefer a mocktail.
The Transfusion Cocktail is a golf course favorite, known for its refreshing blend of vodka, grape juice, and ginger ale. While this drink is a staple among golfers, no tournament experience is complete without the iconic food from Augusta National. Discover the History of Masters Golf Tournament Concession Stand Food and learn about the legendary sandwiches and snacks that pair perfectly with this classic golf drink.
A transfusion is a niche golf cocktail rumored to have originated from a past Augusta National Golf Club member. Former president Dwight D. Eisenhower supposedly enjoyed ordering a transfusion from the clubhouse bar after a round of golf.
It’s not exactly known why this golf tradition drink is so popular, but I think it’s because the flavor combination is the perfect way to cool down after spending hours on the golf course.
Pro Tips For The Best Transfusion Cocktail
Chill Your Glass: A cold glass keeps your drink extra refreshing.
Use Fresh Lime Juice: It makes a huge difference in flavor.
Pour Ginger Ale Last: This preserves the bubbles for a crisp finish.
Add a Slice of Fresh Ginger: Enhances the drink’s effervescence and settles the tummy.
Ingredient Tips For A Transfusion Cocktail
Here’s a quick overview of the key ingredients for this recipe. For the full list of ingredients and exact measurements, be sure to check the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Vodka: Use a high-quality vodka like Tito’s or Ketel One for a smooth finish.
- Concord Grape Juice: Always choose 100% Concord grape juice for its bold, fruity flavor.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is a must—skip the bottled version for the best taste.
- Ginger Ale: Opt for a crisp, high-quality ginger ale to give the drink its signature fizz.
- Garnishes: A lime wedge and frozen grapes add a decorative and flavorful touch.
It’s not recommended, Concord grape juice has a bolder, more distinct flavor that makes this drink special.
A smooth, high-quality vodka like Tito’s, Ketel One, or Grey Goose works best.
How To Make A Transfusion Cocktail
Prep Lime Juice and Grape Juice
Fill a glass (preferably a highball glass) with ice and then juice a lime to get about 1 tablespoon of juice.
Mixing Transfusion Drink
Pour lime juice and grape juice over the ice and add vodka.
Slowly pour in the ginger ale. Stirring the cocktail too much will destroy the bubbles and make the drink a bit flat. You can give it a quick gentle stir after all the ingredients are in the glass. Garnish with a lime wedge if desired.
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
- Low-Calorie Version: Use zero-calorie ginger ale and light Concord grape juice.
- Mocktail Option: Swap vodka for a non-alcoholic spirit like Arkay or Memento.
- Sweeter Alternative: Use Sprite instead of ginger ale for a fruitier twist.
- Freeze Grape Juice Cubes: Use frozen Concord grape juice cubes instead of ice for a more concentrated flavor.
Hospitality Tips
For a party, make a big batch ahead of time. Add ginger ale just before serving to keep it bubbly. Freeze grape juice into ice cubes for serving in pitchers.
Masters Party Food Menu
Get ready for the 2025 Masters Tournament with these authentic tasting copycat recipes inspired by the historic Augusta National’s Masters golf tournament. Create a full Masters Party Food Menu with these make-at-home recipes.
Do you have a question about the recipe? Feel free to ask in the comments below. I’m here to help!
Refreshing Transfusion Drink Recipe
Note: Be sure to read through the recipe’s post for tips and details about this recipe.
You can add any recipe from Intentional Hospitality to your shopping list to plan a full menu!
Ingredients
- 3 ounces vodka
- 2 ounces Concord grape juice, about 1 shot
- 1 tablespoon lime juice, fresh squeezed
- 2 ounces ginger ale, more if desired
- lime wedge, frozen grapes for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a glass (preferably a highball glass) with ice.
- Juice lime to get about one 1 tablespoon of juice.
- Measure lime juice and grape juice, then pour into the glass ice.
- Pour in your favorite vodka.
- Slowly pour in the ginger ale. Stirring the cocktail too much will destroy the bubbles and make the drink a bit flat. You can give it a quick gentle stir after all the ingredients are in the glass.Garnish with a lime wedge if desired.
Notes
- Chill your cocktail glass in the freezer before using it.
- Wait to pour your ginger ale just before serving for lots of bubbles.
- Be sure you buy Concord grape juice for its unique flavor.
- Use fresh lime juice.
- Add plenty of ice for a perfectly chilled cocktail.
- Add a slice of fresh ginger to the glass for more effervescence.
I love this cocktail! It’s a classic and my husband and son are so happy to have a recipe that they can make to watch the big tournaments! Great recipe
Cheers!
Thank you so much. The crew here in Colorado is going to live this tomorrow afternoon while we watch The Masters from here.
Thanks for sharing with me! Can you believe MclLroy, all those birdies – it’s been an exciting Saturday
Such a beautiful day and he’s had a crazy great day! Everyone here loves all the food. We made the Chili, the chicken salad, egg salad, pimento cheese and the pound cake. Thank you for what you do. Next year we’re going to order all the fun stuff you create.