Easy Grape Ape Cocktail Recipe (Vodka & Soda)

Ever mixed a drink so purple it practically glows? If you’ve spent time in Minnesota, or just appreciate a fun, fruity vodka concoction, you might have encountered the legendary Grape Ape. But getting the recipe right, especially with whispers of secret bar versions, can feel like chasing a purple phantom. You might wonder if it’s just grape vodka and soda, or if there’s more to this vibrant cocktail.

The Grape Ape is a popular vodka-based cocktail, known for its vibrant purple color and distinctly fruity grape flavor, often associated with Minnesota bar culture, specifically The Loon Cafe in Minneapolis. Classic versions typically mix grape-flavored vodka with lemon-lime soda and sometimes sour mix or a splash of grenadine for color.

Ready to unravel the mystery behind this Midwest favorite? We’ll dive into the classic recipe, explore popular variations (including that elusive Loon Cafe version and the party-ready Grape Ape Bowla), and share tips to make the perfect Grape Ape at home. Forget the confusion – let’s mix up some clarity.

Key Facts:
* Minnesota Roots: The Grape Ape cocktail is strongly linked to Minnesota, particularly The Loon Cafe in Minneapolis, where it gained significant popularity. (Source: Reddit discussion)
* Simple Base: Many popular recipes, like the one promoted by UV Vodka, feature a simple mix of grape vodka and lemon-lime soda (often a 1:2 ratio). (Source: UV Vodka)
* Common Variations: Beyond the basic mix, recipes often incorporate sour mix, grenadine, or even grape juice for added flavor and color complexity. (Source: The Drink Kings, Marcorelles Wine)
* Shot Form: A popular variation is the Grape Ape shot, typically combining grape vodka and lemon-lime soda (like Sprite) in equal parts. ([Source: Outline Data/Common Knowledge])
* Beyond Alcohol: While known as a cocktail, non-alcoholic versions like the Grape Ape smoothie exist, blending grape flavors for a family-friendly treat. (Source: Ocean Spray)

What Exactly is a Grape Ape Cocktail?

The Grape Ape is primarily a vodka-based highball cocktail celebrated for its striking purple hue and potent, sweet grape flavor. Often described as tasting like liquid grape candy or soda, it’s a straightforward mix that balances sweetness with a fizzy lift. Its identity is deeply intertwined with the Minneapolis cocktail scene, making it more than just a drink – it’s a piece of local lore.

While simple at its core (often just grape vodka and lemon-lime soda), variations abound, sometimes incorporating sour mix for tang, grenadine for color enhancement, or even different base spirits in more complex interpretations. Its enduring appeal lies in its nostalgic flavor, vibrant look, and easy-drinking nature.

The Minnesota Connection: Is Grape Ape a Local Legend?

Yes, the Grape Ape is strongly considered a Minnesota thing, widely popularized by The Loon Cafe in Minneapolis. While grape-flavored drinks aren’t exclusive to the state, the specific combination and the name “Grape Ape” gained iconic status there. Ask bartenders or locals in Minneapolis about it, and The Loon Cafe inevitably comes up as the epicenter of its fame.

The drink became a staple at The Loon, known for its potent and satisfying version. Its popularity radiated outwards, becoming a recognizable order in bars across Minnesota. While you might find it elsewhere, its strongest identity and nostalgic connection remain firmly rooted in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, solidifying its status as a local legend.

What to Expect: Flavor and Strength

A Grape Ape typically tastes very fruity and sweet, dominated by Concord grape flavor with a fizzy citrus lift from the soda. Think grape hard candy or a high-quality grape soda, but with the unmistakable kick of vodka. Some variations might add a tart edge from sour mix or a subtle berry note if grenadine or Razzmatazz is used.

In terms of strength, a classic Grape Ape made with standard proof vodka and mixers is moderate, comparable to other vodka highballs like a Vodka Soda or Screwdriver (around 10-15% ABV). However, the strength can vary significantly. Some recipes call for higher ratios of vodka, and the legendary Loon Cafe version is often rumored to be considerably stronger, potentially using multiple liquors or a more generous pour. Always sip responsibly!

How Do You Make the Classic Grape Ape Cocktail Recipe?

To make a classic Grape Ape, fill a highball glass with ice. Add 1.5 oz Concord grape vodka, 0.5 oz sour mix (optional, for tartness), and a dash of grenadine (optional, for color). Top the glass with about 2-3 oz of lemon-lime soda and stir gently. Garnish with a lemon slice or skewered grapes. This creates the quintessential fruity, purple, and fizzy experience.

This common recipe offers a balance of sweet grape flavor from the vodka, fizziness and citrus from the soda, and a touch of tartness if you include the sour mix. It’s incredibly easy to build directly in the glass, making it a go-to for a quick, refreshing cocktail. Remember, measurements can be adjusted to your preference for sweetness and strength.

Gathering Your Ingredients

Before you start mixing, let’s gather everything you need for a classic Grape Ape. Precision isn’t always crucial here, but having the right components makes a difference.

• Grape Flavored Vodka: 1.5 oz (approx. 45ml) – Concord grape vodka is standard. UV Grape is a popular choice.
• Lemon-Lime Soda: 2-3 oz (approx. 60-90ml) – Sprite, 7 Up, or similar.
• Sour Mix (Optional): 0.5 oz (approx. 15ml) – Adds tartness to balance the sweetness.
• Grenadine (Optional): Dash (approx. 1/4 tsp or 1-2ml) – Primarily for enhancing the purple color.
• Ice: Enough to fill your glass.
• Garnish (Optional): Lemon wedge, lime slice, or fresh grapes.
• Glassware: Highball glass (typically 10-12 oz).

Step-by-Step Mixing Guide

Making a Grape Ape is wonderfully simple. It’s a “built” cocktail, meaning you mix it directly in the serving glass.

1. Chill Your Glass (Optional): For an extra refreshing drink, chill your highball glass in the freezer for a few minutes.
2. Fill with Ice: Fill the highball glass completely with ice cubes.
3. Add Vodka: Pour 1.5 oz of grape-flavored vodka over the ice.
4. Add Sour Mix (If Using): Pour 0.5 oz of sour mix over the vodka and ice.
5. Add Grenadine (If Using): Add just a small dash of grenadine. Too much can overpower the grape flavor.
6. Top with Soda: Gently pour 2-3 oz of lemon-lime soda over the mixture, leaving a little space at the top.
7. Stir Gently: Using a bar spoon or stirrer, stir the mixture gently for about 5-10 seconds. You want to combine the ingredients without losing too much carbonation.
8. Garnish: Add your chosen garnish – a lemon wedge perched on the rim or a few grapes skewered on a cocktail pick are classic choices.
9. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your freshly mixed Grape Ape!

Tips for the Perfect Serve

Want to elevate your Grape Ape from good to great? Try these simple tips:

• Chill Everything: Use cold vodka, cold soda, and a chilled glass for the most refreshing experience.
• Quality Vodka Matters: While any grape vodka works, brands known for a less artificial taste (like UV Grape or even some craft options) can improve the flavor. Some Reddit users even mention “Buddy’s Grape” in discussions about the Loon Cafe version. (Source: Reddit)
• Adjust Sweetness/Tartness: If it’s too sweet, add more sour mix or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. If it’s not sweet enough, slightly reduce the sour mix or add a tiny bit more grenadine (carefully!).
• Experiment with Soda: While lemon-lime is classic, try club soda for a less sweet version or even a flavored sparkling water (like grape or lime).
• Frozen Grapes as Ice: Use frozen grapes instead of some of the ice cubes. They keep the drink cold without diluting it as quickly and add a fun visual touch.
• Don’t Over-Stir: Stir just enough to combine. Over-stirring will make the drink flat faster.

Nutritional Snapshot (Approximate)

A typical Grape Ape cocktail contains approximately 210 calories and has an alcohol content of around 12% ABV, depending on the specific ingredients and proportions used. It primarily consists of carbohydrates (around 18g from the soda, sour mix, and potentially vodka), with negligible fat or protein.

Keep in mind these are estimates. Using diet soda will reduce calories and carbs significantly. Adding more vodka will increase the alcohol content and calories. Using grape juice instead of or in addition to soda (like in The Drink Kings recipe: 2oz vodka, 3oz grape juice, 3oz soda) will also change the nutritional profile, likely increasing sugar and calories. (Source: The Drink Kings)

Key Takeaway: The classic Grape Ape is a simple, customizable cocktail. Start with the base recipe (grape vodka, lemon-lime soda) and adjust sour mix, grenadine, and proportions to perfectly match your taste preferences for sweetness and tartness.

Are There Popular Grape Ape Recipe Variations?

Yes, popular Grape Ape variations include shot recipes often using UV Grape vodka and Sprite, potentially stronger versions attributed to the Loon Cafe, non-alcoholic smoothies, and even large-format “Bowla” recipes like Guy Fieri’s, which may add other spirits like rum or gin. The core concept of a fruity, grape-forward drink lends itself well to interpretation.

Beyond the standard highball, the Grape Ape shot is common for parties. The quest for the “original” Loon Cafe recipe fuels speculation about different ingredients or ratios. Non-drinkers can enjoy the flavor profile via smoothie recipes. And for a crowd, large-batch versions amplify the fun. Each variation plays on the theme, offering a different experience based on the iconic grape flavor.

Chasing the Original: The Loon Cafe Grape Ape Mystery

The exact Loon Cafe Grape Ape recipe is debated, but it’s often rumored to be stronger than standard versions, potentially using a blend of liquors beyond just grape vodka. It remains a Minneapolis bar legend with no officially confirmed recipe widely available. Patrons and former employees often speculate, adding to the mystique.

Online discussions, like those on Reddit, suggest possibilities ranging from adding citrus vodka and triple sec to the standard mix, to using specific local brands like “Buddy’s Grape.” (Source: Reddit) Some believe it simply involves a more generous pour of grape vodka or perhaps a specific ratio of sour mix and soda that makes it uniquely balanced. Without official confirmation from The Loon Cafe, recreating their exact magic remains a fun challenge for enthusiasts.

Quick & Easy: The Grape Ape Shot

A common Grape Ape shot recipe involves mixing equal parts UV Grape vodka and lemon-lime soda (like Sprite) in a shot glass. Some variations might add a splash of sour mix or grenadine for extra flavor and color, mirroring the full-sized cocktail.

This variation delivers the characteristic sweet grape flavor in a concentrated, quick format. It’s incredibly simple:

1. Pour 0.75 oz (approx. 22ml) of UV Grape vodka (or other grape vodka) into a shot glass.
2. Top with 0.75 oz (approx. 22ml) of Sprite or other lemon-lime soda.
3. (Optional) Add a tiny splash of sour mix or grenadine before the soda if desired.
4. Serve immediately.

Some recipes found online, like one on TikTok, might list larger volumes (e.g., 2oz vodka, 4oz juice, 2oz soda), which seems more suited for a small cocktail rather than a typical shot. (Source: TikTok – Note potential discrepancy in volume vs. “shot” name). The key is the balanced sweet grape and fizzy profile in a small serving.

Going Big: Guy Fieri’s Grape Ape Bowla

For those looking to serve a crowd, Guy Fieri offers a large-format “Grape Ape Bowla.” This recipe significantly deviates from the simple vodka-based original, creating a potent party punch.

While specific recipes can vary, Fieri’s versions often involve a more complex blend of spirits. You might find ingredients like:

• Vodka (potentially regular or citrus, not necessarily grape)
• Rum (light or spiced)
• Gin
• Triple Sec or another orange liqueur
• Grape Juice or Grape Soda
• Citrus Juices (like lemon, lime, or orange)
• Lemon-Lime Soda

This creates a much more complex flavor profile than the standard Grape Ape, moving into party punch territory while retaining the grape theme and fun name. It’s designed for sharing and definitely packs a punch!

Tip: When exploring variations, start with the classic recipe to understand the base flavor profile. Then, experiment by swapping sodas, adding juices (like cranberry or pineapple for a twist), or trying different flavored vodkas alongside the grape.

FAQs About the Grape Ape Recipe

Got more questions about this vibrant purple drink? Here are answers to some common queries:

What is Grape Ape made of?

A classic Grape Ape is primarily made of grape-flavored vodka and lemon-lime soda. Common additions include sour mix for tartness and a splash of grenadine for enhanced color. Variations might include grape juice or other liquors depending on the specific recipe.

How do you make the classic Grape Ape cocktail?

To make a classic Grape Ape, fill a highball glass with ice, add 1.5 oz grape vodka, optionally 0.5 oz sour mix and a dash of grenadine, top with 2-3 oz lemon-lime soda, and stir gently. Garnish with a lemon slice or grapes.

How do you make the Loon Grape Ape recipe?

The exact Loon Cafe Grape Ape recipe is not officially published and remains a subject of speculation. Many believe it’s stronger than standard recipes, possibly using more vodka, a specific brand like Buddy’s Grape, or adding other spirits like citrus vodka or triple sec, combined with sour mix and soda.

Is Grape Ape a Minnesota thing?

Yes, the Grape Ape cocktail is strongly associated with Minnesota, particularly Minneapolis, where it was popularized by The Loon Cafe. While you might find it elsewhere, it’s widely considered a Minnesota bar staple and local favorite.

What kind of vodka is best for a Grape Ape?

Concord grape-flavored vodka is the standard choice. UV Grape is a very popular and widely available option often mentioned in recipes. Some locals discussing the Loon Cafe version mention “Buddy’s Grape,” though availability might be regional. Any decent quality grape vodka will work.

Can I make a Grape Ape with Sprite instead of lemon-lime soda?

Absolutely! Sprite is a brand of lemon-lime soda and works perfectly in a Grape Ape recipe. Other options like 7 Up, Starry, or generic lemon-lime sodas are also suitable substitutes.

How do you make a Grape Ape shot?

A simple Grape Ape shot typically involves mixing equal parts grape vodka (like UV Grape) and lemon-lime soda (like Sprite) in a shot glass. Some might add a tiny splash of sour mix or grenadine.

Is there a non-alcoholic Grape Ape recipe?

Yes, you can create a non-alcoholic version. Ocean Spray offers a Grape Ape smoothie recipe. For a non-alcoholic drink closer to the cocktail, mix grape juice, a splash of lemon or lime juice for tartness, and top with lemon-lime soda or sparkling water.

What does a Grape Ape taste like?

A Grape Ape tastes predominantly sweet and fruity, much like liquid Concord grape candy or soda, with a fizzy texture from the soda. If sour mix is added, it will have a slightly tart undertone balancing the sweetness.

What is in Guy Fieri’s Grape Ape Bowla?

Guy Fieri’s Grape Ape Bowla is a large-format punch and typically includes a mix of spirits like vodka, rum, gin, and Triple Sec, combined with grape juice or soda, citrus elements, and lemon-lime soda. It’s a more complex and potent variation than the classic cocktail.

How many calories are in a Grape Ape?

A standard Grape Ape cocktail has approximately 210 calories, though this varies based on the exact ingredients (especially the amount of vodka and type of soda/mixers used). It’s primarily composed of carbohydrates and alcohol.

What glass should I use for a Grape Ape?

The classic Grape Ape cocktail is traditionally served in a highball glass, which is a tall, straight-sided glass typically holding 10-12 ounces. For the shot variation, a standard shot glass is used.

Summary

The Grape Ape cocktail is more than just a mix of grape vodka and soda; it’s a vibrant, fun, and often nostalgic drink with strong roots in Minnesota, particularly The Loon Cafe. Whether you prefer the simple, classic highball, a quick shot, or even a non-alcoholic smoothie version, the core appeal lies in its bold grape flavor and eye-catching purple color.

We’ve explored the essential ingredients (grape vodka, lemon-lime soda, optional sour mix/grenadine), demystified the classic recipe, touched upon the legendary Loon Cafe variation, and looked at other popular takes like shots and Guy Fieri’s Bowla. Remember that recipes like the UV Vodka version (1 part vodka, 2 parts soda) or The Drink Kings version (vodka, grape juice, soda) offer slightly different paths to a similar result. The beauty is in its simplicity and adaptability.

Ready to mix one up yourself? Give the classic recipe a try, or experiment with the variations.

What’s your favorite way to make a Grape Ape? Do you have any insights into the elusive Loon Cafe recipe? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below! If you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with fellow cocktail enthusiasts. Cheers!