The Grape Crush Shot hails from the sun-drenched vineyards of Australia
I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades. I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavour combinations, and learned a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide. In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets.
I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests. So, grab your shaker, dust off your favourite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Introduction: A Taste of Summer in a Shot
Juicy, playful, and perfect for sharing — the Grape Crush Shot is a little burst of summer sunshine. Think grape soda sweetness cut with a squeeze of lime, smoothed over with vodka for balance. It’s nostalgic yet grown-up, and best of all, it only takes minutes to make.
Grape Crush Shot Recipe (AU + US)
Makes 2 shots
Ingredients
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60 ml (2 oz) grape vodka
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30 ml (1 oz) fresh lime juice
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30 ml (1 oz) grape soda (Fanta, Crush, or similar)
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Ice
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Garnish: lime wedge or single grape (optional)
Method
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Chill glasses: Place 2 shot glasses in the freezer while you prep.
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Shake: Add vodka and lime juice to a shaker with ice. Shake hard for 10–12 seconds.
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Strain: Strain into the chilled shot glasses.
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Top: Add a splash of cold grape soda to each.
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Garnish: Optional lime wedge or grape. Serve immediately.
Flavour profile: Smooth vodka base, juicy grape sweetness, zesty lime snap, and light fizz.
Why It Works
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Simple: 3 ingredients, no fuss.
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Balanced: Lime keeps the sweetness in check.
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Versatile: Easy to batch, easy to tweak, always a party hit.
Variations
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Tropical Grape: Swap grape soda for pineapple juice + dash grenadine.
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Berry Bonanza: Use raspberry vodka + splash cranberry juice.
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Citrus Snap: Orange vodka + squeeze of grapefruit juice.
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Frozen Crush: Blend ingredients with ice for a slushy serve.
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Mocktail: Replace vodka with white grape juice; top with soda water + lime.
Party Batching
10 shots:
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300 ml grape vodka
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150 ml lime juice
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150 ml grape soda (add last, to keep fizz)
Shake vodka + lime, strain into a jug, then top with soda just before pouring into glasses.
Pairings
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Backyard BBQs: Cuts through smoky meats and grilled veg.
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Game night: Serve as a fun round for friends.
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Wine tastings: A cheeky, palate-refreshing side act.
RSA Reminder
The Grape Crush Shot may taste sweet, but it’s still vodka-based. Under Australian RSA guidelines:
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Stick to standard 15 ml nips for spirits.
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Always serve with water and food.
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Remind guests shots don’t need to be slammed — sip and enjoy responsibly.
More info: Liquor & Gaming NSW.
The Final Sip
The Grape Crush Shot is proof that cocktails don’t have to be complicated to be fun. With grape vodka, soda, and lime, you get nostalgia, freshness, and a quick, easy party starter. Shake it up, tweak it to your taste, and let the simple joy of grapes in a glass bring smiles all round.
The bartending community…
The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve.
I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below.
What are you shaking up these days?
What topics would you like to see covered in future posts?
Let’s connect and continue the conversation!
Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: Liquor & Gaming NSW
Read more:
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- Apple Pie Shot
- Grape Shot
- The Surfer Shot
- Crafting The lemon Meringue Pie Shot
- Unleash Your Inner Mad Scientist: The Brain Hemorrhage
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
