Chill your glass: If you have time, pop a highball or stemless wine glass in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes.
Add ice: Fill the glass to the top with fresh ice. Cold ingredients make a better spritzer.
Pour the vodka: Add 2 ounces of vodka over the ice.
Add cranberry juice: Start with 2 ounces if you like it more bubbly, or 3 ounces for a deeper cranberry note.
Squeeze the lime: Add 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice. It brightens everything and cuts the sweetness.
Sweeten if needed: If you’re using unsweetened cranberry juice and want a softer edge, stir in simple syrup to taste.
Top with bubbles: Add 3–4 ounces of chilled soda water.
Pour gently to keep the sparkle.
Give it a quick stir: A brief stir blends the flavors without knocking out the fizz.
Garnish and serve: Finish with a lime wheel, a few cranberries, or a mint sprig. Serve immediately while it’s icy and effervescent.