I first tried the Nasty Woman cocktail at a friend’s election night party back in 2016. We were all crammed into her living room, nervously watching the results on TV, and she handed me this drink – bright, zingy, and unapologetically bold. Honestly, it felt like the cocktail version of the mood in the room: defiant, a little fiery, and impossible to ignore.
The drink itself popped up after that infamous debate moment, when a certain phrase meant as an insult was instantly reclaimed as a kind of rallying cry. Since then, I’ve spotted this cocktail at political fundraisers and women’s meet-ups, always inspiring some great conversation and a few knowing grins between sips.
Strength & Profile
Note: You can tap on flavors, occasions, and feels to view more similar cocktail recipes.
What I love most is how it balances spice with brightness. The ginger liqueur adds this underlying warmth that’s more of a pleasant tingle than a full burn, and the lime juice keeps everything fresh and sharp. It’s assertive without tipping over the edge – pretty much like the women who inspired its name.
Just last weekend, I made a round of these for a small dinner. Normally, my friend Sarah is a dedicated wine drinker, but she ended up asking for a refill. She called it “a Moscow Mule with attitude,” which cracked everyone up and kind of nailed it.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
- 1 oz (30 ml) ginger liqueur
- 1 oz (30 ml) freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
- Club soda, to top
- Lime wedge, for garnish
Honestly, a rocks glass feels right – it suits the drink’s vibe – but use a highball if that’s what’s in your cupboard.
How to Make It:
- Pour the vodka, ginger liqueur, lime juice, and simple syrup into a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake for about 15 seconds, until everything is really cold.
- Strain over fresh ice in your glass.
- Add a splash of club soda – just enough for a little fizz but not so much it waters it down.
- Squeeze a lime wedge over the top, drop it in, and you’re good to go.
A quick learned-the-hard-way tip: don’t overdo the simple syrup. The first time I made this, I figured sweeter was better – wrong. Half an ounce is just right; you want that lime and ginger to shine.
If you need a non-alcoholic version, swap in some extra-spicy ginger beer and up the lime juice a bit. My neighbor Julie prefers it this way, especially in the summer when she’s sitting out by the pool.
The drink plays well with food, too. I’ve served it alongside spicy fish tacos, where the lime cuts through the heat, or with a cheese plate (sharp cheddar and goat cheese work wonders here).
For anyone feeling experimental, try muddling a thin slice of jalapeño with the lime juice before shaking for a spicier version. My brother-in-law’s obsessed, though I draw the line at more than one jalapeño slice – learn from my mistakes! Sometimes, if I have fresh berries – blackberries or raspberries – I’ll muddle a few into the shaker. The color is gorgeous, and there’s a nice tart balance.
Whatever version you go with, it’s the perfect drink to raise with friends who refuse to be sidelined. So here’s to all the “nasty women” out there – cheers!
