Pepperclear Highball (Vodka + Dr Pepper)

The Pepperclear Highball marries two icons — smooth vodka and Dr Pepper’s 23-flavor magic — into one refreshingly simple drink. Perfect for casual get-togethers, barbecues, or when you want something sweet and spirited without fuss.

Background

This modern highball riffs on a decades-old tradition: pairing clear spirits with soda for a crisp, balanced serve. While classics like the Vodka Tonic or Cuba Libre rely on citrus or cola, the Pepperclear takes a playful turn with Dr Pepper’s signature cherry-vanilla depth.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• Vodka – provides a clean, neutral backbone that lets the soda shine.
• Dr Pepper® – delivers caramel-cherry sweetness and lively bubbles.
• Ice – keeps everything bracingly cold.
• Optional garnish – lime wedge or cherry for aroma and color.

Equipment

• Highball glass
• Bar spoon

Why You’ll Love It

• Easy to master: two ingredients, no shaker required.
• Customizable: go lighter or stronger by tweaking your pour.
• Nostalgic yet new: childhood favorite meets grown-up twist.

Variations & Substitutions

• Swap Dr Pepper® for cherry cola or root beer for different sweetness levels.
• Try flavored vodka (vanilla or cherry) for an extra flavor layer.
• Make a Pepperclear Float by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert mode.

Helpful Tips

• Use fresh, large ice cubes to slow dilution.
• Stir gently — you want fizz, not flatness.
• Great for batching in pitchers (just add soda last when serving).