What is The Transfusion Cocktail?
The Transfusion is probably the most well-known golf course cocktail around the world. The origin of the drink is unknown, however, wide speculation in the world of spirits link former President, Dwight D. Eisenhower to the grapy ginger elixir of the links. Number 34 is known to have frequently enjoyed the cocktail at his home course, the Eldorado Country Club in Palm Desert, as well as whenever the former President graced the hollowed grounds of Augusta National Golf Club.
How to Make The Perfect Transfusion Drink:
The ingredients are simple but the precise mixture of them is critical to arriving at that nostalgia inducing juice box flavor. Start with ice in a high ball glass. Add two ounces of vodka, (I like Titos or Absolut lime), four ounces of Ginger Ale, (Canada Dry), and one ounce of grape juice, (Concord). And don’t forget to garnish with a lime. The lime stands up nicely to the ginger ale and renders a drink as smooth as a Fred Couples swing.
Nobody knows for sure if Ike was the first to mix the ingredients, but his name is all over any Google search about the drink. The actual name, “transfusion,” is mired in speculation as well. Some say it is because the extremely easy to sip cocktail has a tendency to transfuse one’s blood stream into alcohol. Another, and quite logical school of thought, asserts the drink was created as a hangover cure. The ginger ale can settle an upset stomach while the grape juice provides electrolytes to one in need. The vodka, well, that’s just good old-fashioned hair of the dog.
From personal experience, (extremely biased), the best Transfusion is poured at Jack’s place, Muirfield Village Golf Club, in Dublin, Ohio, where they also make amazing milkshakes, (with or without booze.) Honorable mention goes to Harbour Town Golf Links, home of the RBC Classic and quiet favorite tournament of the pros.
For the health conscience enthusiast of transfusions, (insert oxymoron), one can conjure up a diet transfusion, eliminating carbs and sugar simply by substituting diet ginger ale and Gatorade Zero. Avoid Powerade Zero, not quite grapey enough. Credit to the bar at the Robert Trent Jones Ocean Course at Palmetto Dunes in Hilton Head, South Carolina for sharing this recipe with yours truly.
If the course record is in your cross hairs, it’s probably best to avoid the drink until the 19th hole. But for a regular hit & giggle, nothing tastes better before, during and after a round of golf then an ice cold transfusion. Cheers TRBL MKRS.
Welch's Goes After The Pre-Made Transfusion, Is It As Good? Let Us Know In The Comments.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Transfusion Cocktail1. What is a Transfusion cocktail? The Transfusion is a refreshing cocktail made from a blend of vodka, ginger ale, and grape juice, often garnished with lime. It's a popular drink among golfers and is known for its crisp, revitalizing taste, perfect for a day on the course.
2. Where did the Transfusion cocktail originate? The exact origins of the Transfusion cocktail are a bit unclear, but it has strong ties to the golfing community. Many believe it became popular at country clubs and golf courses in the United States, particularly in the Northeast.
3. How do you make a Transfusion cocktail? To make a classic Transfusion:
- Ingredients: 2 oz vodka, 2 oz grape juice, 4 oz ginger ale, lime wedge for garnish.
- Instructions: Fill a glass with ice, add the vodka and grape juice, and top with ginger ale. Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge.
4. What type of grape juice should I use? Concord grape juice is typically used for its rich, sweet flavor, but you can experiment with different types of grape juice depending on your taste preference.
