Ahhhh – the always refreshing cucumber is certainly a must for Summer! This cocktail comes from my close Gal Pal Wendy Steinmetz… I call her “Wendy Woo” because she is so much fun and a hoot.
Her ‘go-to’ Summer cocktail for Summer 2020 is the ‘White Linen’, only with a little twist inspired by the fabulous restaurant, Monkey Cat, located in the heart of downtown Auburn, CA. (https://monkeycat.com/)
Wendy says “A traditional “White Linen” calls for gin, but my recipe, inspired by Monkey Cat, substitutes the gin with the award-winning, farm crafted organic cucumber flavored vodka from Prairie Spirits (https://prairieorganicspirits.com/products/). Yum! This vodka is delicious all alone on the rocks, but adding a few refreshing ingredients makes it an irresistible must-have cocktail for backyard gatherings and dockside adventures on the lake.

White Linen Cocktail (Cucumber Vodka Version)

Inspired by the classic White Linen cocktail, this refreshing version swaps the traditional gin for crisp organic cucumber vodka. Bright citrus, cool cucumber, and a hint of mint make it the perfect signature cocktail for backyard barbecues, lake days, garden parties, and warm summer evenings.

Print Recipe

Servings: 1 people

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

2 oz cucumber-flavored vodka
1 oz fresh lime juice
½ oz simple syrup
3 –4 thin cucumber slices
4 –5 fresh mint leaves
Club soda to top
Ice
Garnish
Cucumber ribbon
Fresh mint sprig
Lime wheel

Method

Instructions
In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle the cucumber slices and mint leaves.
Add the cucumber vodka, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and a handful of ice.
Shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
Strain into an ice-filled Collins or highball glass.
Top with club soda and stir gently.
Garnish with a cucumber ribbon, a fresh mint sprig, and a lime wheel.
Homemade Simple Syrup
Ingredients
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup water
Directions
Heat the sugar and water in a small saucepan until the sugar dissolves. Cool completely before using. Store refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

Gal Pal Tips

Use an English cucumber for the sweetest flavor and fewer seeds.
Lightly clap the mint between your hands before garnishing to release its fragrant oils.
Chill your glass before serving to keep the cocktail crisp and refreshing.
For the clearest, freshest flavor, use freshly squeezed lime juice.

Easy Variations

🍋 Lemon White Linen

Replace the lime juice with fresh lemon juice for a brighter citrus profile.

🫐 Berry White Linen

Muddle a few fresh blueberries or blackberries with the cucumber and mint before shaking.

🌸 Garden Party

Add a splash of elderflower liqueur for delicate floral notes.

🥂 Sparkling White Linen

Top with chilled Prosecco instead of club soda for an elegant brunch cocktail.

🌿 Herbal Twist

Add a sprig of basil along with the mint for an extra layer of fresh garden flavor.

Perfect Pairings

This light and refreshing cocktail pairs beautifully with:

Grilled salmon with BBQ glaze
Roasted beet and goat cheese salad
Bacon-wrapped dates
Brie-stuffed mushrooms
Fresh fruit and cheese boards
Coconut cake with whipped cream frosting

Gal Pal Tip

Serve this cocktail in a tall glass with plenty of crystal-clear ice, a long cucumber ribbon curled inside the glass, and a generous sprig of fresh mint. It’s refreshing, elegant, and the kind of drink that instantly makes any summer gathering feel a little more special. 🍸🥒🌿

Wendy Woo’s White Linen Cocktail