On the Texas High Plains, summers are hot—scorching even. After spending time in the sun, you’re left craving something cold and refreshing. A homemade lemonade often hits the spot, but sometimes you need something with a bit more punch, something with a bit of fizz and a hint of vodka. That’s where the Chilton comes in—just one of the South’s many underrated (but delicious) cocktails.
What Is a Chilton?
The Chilton is Lubbock’s signature cocktail—a blend of vodka, lemon and a splash of soda. And you can’t forget the salted rim. Like a margarita, it’s optional but highly recommended.
While the drink’s origins are a bit murky, locals will tell you that the Chilton originated at a Lubbock-area country club. There, decades ago, a doctor came in from the hot sun requesting a drink that was citrusy, strong and not too sweet. What the bartender created was then called a Chilton, named for the doctor that ordered the refresher.
Since that time, the Chilton has risen to fame in Lubbock and the West Texas area. The classic formula is still the most popular, but you’ll find restaurants playing with the recipe with flavored vodkas and fruit juices.
How to Make a Chilton at Home
Making a Chilton at home is easy. Chances are you have most of the ingredients already on hand—that’s the mark of a great cocktail. Here’s what you need:
- 2 ounces vodka
- Juice of two lemons
- Club soda
- Coarse salt
- Lemon wedge, optional, to garnish
Step 1: Prep the Glass
Traditionally the Chilton is served in a Collins glass, though you can substitute whatever you have on hand if you don’t have Collins-style glassware at home.
Begin by rimming the glass with a bit of salt—same as you would with a margarita. Swipe a lemon wedge around the rim and then roll the edge in coarse salt. Then fill the glass high with ice.
Step 2: Add Vodka and Lemon
Next, add two ounces of vodka into the glass. Choose a good vodka here. With only a few ingredients in the Chilton, the quality of the vodka will stand out.
Then add the juice of two lemons. You absolutely want to use fresh lemon juice here. It gives this easy mixed drink that bright, refreshing flavor that you’re searching for after a long day in the hot sun. Finally, top off the glass with club soda.
Step 3: Stir, Garnish and Serve
With all your ingredients in the glass, grab a cocktail spoon, and give your Chilton a stir to combine. Garnish with a lemon slice and serve.
Unlike many fruity drinks, the Chilton isn’t overly sweet. It’s tart, cool and bracing—a must for a hot day in the Texas heat or wherever you call home.
More Classic Cocktails to Try
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Learn how to make the best ever Bloody Mary.Â
Mai TaiThis party favorite has been around for quite some time. It's not overly fruity and features a good blend of sweet and sour. For a splash of color, garnish with strawberries and lime.—Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Greendale, Wisconsin
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This combination of lime juice and gin (or vodka if you prefer) is the perfect elixir on balmy days.[/rms_recipe]
These vintage drinks deserve a comeback.
Moscow MuleHere's an old-time cocktail that was popular in the 1940s and '50s. A Moscow Mule is traditionally served in a copper mug with plenty of ice. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Love mules?
Try one of these fun variations.
Refreshing MojitoThe great mint flavor of mojitos helps balance the spiciness of
Cuban food. My recipe calls for apple rum and a purchased mix.—Eric Brill, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
Also check out
how to use bitters in more than just cocktails.
Fresh Lime MargaritasThis basic fresh margarita recipe is easy to modify to your tastes. Try it frozen or with strawberries. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Here's how to take your marg to the next level.
Take a trip to the Big Easy with this sophisticated
Sazerac recipe, the official cocktail of New Orleans.
TMB studio
It wouldn't be Kentucky Derby Day without this mint julep recipe! But, really, this Kentucky Derby mint julep recipe is good anytime. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Go to Recipe
For more flavorful drinks,
check out our guide to lychee cocktail recipes. Also
what are bitters and how do you use them in cocktails?
White Chocolate Brandy AlexanderThis brandied white cocoa is a wonderful drink to warm up with after coming in from the cold. Whipped topping and chocolate shavings make special finishing touches. —Sharon Delaney-Chronis, South Milwaukee, Wisconsin
On the sweeter side of classic cocktails, you'll find the Brandy Alexander.
Part brandy, part creme de cacao and part cream, this libation makes a smooth, tasty after dinner drink.[/rms_recipe]
Next, check out these
15 types of cocktail glasses that serious mixologists recommend.
