There are actually two cocktails sharing the name "Polar Bear." One is a punchy, ice-blue party drink built on raspberry vodka and blue curaçao that disappears fast at holiday gatherings. The other is a thoughtful, crystal-clear bartender's cocktail from Trick Dog in San Francisco. Both are worth knowing. Let's get right into how to make them.
1. The Party Polar Bear Cocktail — Built for a Crowd
This is the version most people are searching for. It takes about ninety seconds to make, looks genuinely striking, and is refreshingly fruit-forward without being cloying. The blue color is the point here — it's vivid, cold-looking, and instantly festive.
Polar Bear Cocktail — Party Version
Ingredients- 2 oz raspberry vodka
- 1 oz blue curaçao
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- 2 oz Sprite or club soda (to top)
- Combine the raspberry vodka, blue curaçao, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker with a generous load of ice.
- Shake hard for 12 to 15 seconds — until the outside of the shaker frosts over.
- Strain into a chilled glass. Top gently with Sprite or club soda.
2. The Trick Dog Version — The Bartender's Polar Bear
Think of this as a Stinger that took a detour through Oaxaca. It uses mountain-grown espadín mezcal, blanc vermouth, and distilled white crème de menthe. It requires more intentionality, but the clear, herbal, and slightly smoky payoff is incredible.
Polar Bear Cocktail — Trick Dog Bar Version
Ingredients- 1½ oz espadín mezcal (lightly smoky)
- ¾ oz blanc vermouth (Dolin or Comoz)
- ½ oz white crème de menthe (Tempus Fugit preferred)
- 6 dashes angelica tincture (or celery bitters)
- Combine all four ingredients in a mixing glass with a full load of ice.
- Stir — do not shake — for a full 30 seconds to ensure chill without cloudiness.
- Strain slowly into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass. No garnish.
Variations Worth Trying
Sparkling Polar Bear
Replace Sprite in the party version with dry Prosecco for a refined touch. Serve in a stainless champagne flute or a large wine glass over ice for a refreshing summer spritz.
The Group Mule
Batching for a crowd? Serve the party version over crushed ice in a Russian Mule mug. The engraved patterns add a refined touch, while the handle helps keep your drink colder for longer.
Frozen Polar Bear
Blend the party version with ½ cup of crushed ice until slushy. The color intensifies as it emulsifies. Perfect for warm afternoons.
FAQ
Can I make the Party Polar Bear without blue curaçao?
You can, but you will lose the signature icy-blue tone. Regular triple sec delivers the same flavor, but the drink will look peachy-orange.
What's the best way to batch this for a party?
Combine the spirits and juice in a pitcher and refrigerate. Pour into individual glasses over ice when guests arrive, and only add the carbonated soda at the very last second to keep the bubbles alive.
