A Bright Splash of Lemon
Absolut Citron is the lemon-forward vodka that helped define an entire era of cocktails, and it earns its place on the shelf at Camp West in West Seattle for exactly that reason. Launched in 1988, it became the best-selling flavored vodka almost immediately and is widely credited as the spirit that inspired the Cosmopolitan and the lemon drop. It is bright, juicy, and instantly recognizable.
We keep it on hand because so many of our favorite cabin-side cocktails start with citrus. When a guest wants something crisp and a little zesty without reaching for a wedge of fresh fruit, Absolut Citron does the work beautifully.
About the Distillery
The Absolut brand was established in 1879 by Lars Olsson Smith, and the modern Absolut Vodka we know launched in 1979. Everything is produced in and around the small village of Åhus in the south of Sweden, where the wheat is grown locally and the water is drawn from deep wells. Absolut has built its reputation on a single source of production and a tightly controlled, consistent process.
Base & Production
Absolut Citron is made from Swedish winter wheat and water from Åhus, the same base as the original Absolut Vodka. It is a flavored vodka, infused with the essence of lemon (with a hint of lime) rather than left neutral. The result is a 40% ABV spirit that carries genuine citrus character without added sugar.
Tasting Notes
The nose is full of fresh-cut lemon zest. On the palate it is smooth and full-bodied, with juicy lemon up front and a tangy lime brightness underneath that keeps it lively. The finish is clean and citrus-driven, more zesty than sweet, which is what makes it mix so well.
How to Enjoy It at Camp West
Absolut Citron is made for refreshing drinks. Try it long with soda and a lemon twist, in a classic lemon drop, or as the heart of a Cosmopolitan, the cocktail it helped popularize. It also brightens up a simple vodka cocktail when you want more lift than a plain pour. Our pour is $10.
FAQ
Is Absolut Citron sweet? Not particularly. It is a flavored vodka built around lemon and lime zest, so it reads bright and tangy rather than sugary.
What cocktail is it famous for? Absolut Citron is widely credited with inspiring the Cosmopolitan and is the classic base for a lemon drop.
Ready to settle in? Book a table, browse the full vodka list, or explore the complete beverage menu.