Kamikaze

The story

The Kamikaze is believed to have originated in Japan during the 1970s, named after the Japanese word for 'divine wind.' It gained popularity in American bars in the 1980s, particularly as a shooter. Its simple mix of vodka, triple sec, and lime juice made it a favorite for those seeking a quick, refreshing drink.

How it tastes

The Kamikaze offers a balanced flavor profile of citrusy lime, sweet orange from the triple sec, and a clean finish from the vodka. It's typically served as a shooter or in a cocktail glass, making it a popular choice for parties and gatherings.

Getting it right

The key to a successful Kamikaze is achieving the right balance between the lime juice and triple sec. Shaking the ingredients well with ice ensures proper chilling and dilution, resulting in a refreshing drink. Straining into a chilled glass enhances the overall experience.

Variations

• Blue Kamikaze — Substitutes blue curaçao for triple sec, giving the drink a vibrant blue color.
• Kamikaze Shooter — Served as a shot, this variation is consumed quickly for a more intense experience.

Substitutions

• Lime juice — Fresh lemon juice can be used for a slightly different citrus flavor.
• Triple sec — Cointreau or another orange liqueur can serve as a substitute.

Questions

What is a Kamikaze?

A Kamikaze is a cocktail made with vodka, triple sec, and lime juice, known for its refreshing citrus flavor.

How strong is a Kamikaze?

With an ABV of around 16%, a Kamikaze is relatively strong, especially when served as a shooter.

Can I make a Kamikaze without triple sec?

Yes, you can substitute triple sec with other orange liqueurs like Cointreau, or use a mix of orange juice and simple syrup for a non-alcoholic version.

This text was drafted by a language model from the catalogue’s data and is machine-translated outside English.

Updated October 5, 2026