The Transfusion: A Golf Club Classic with a Presidential Backstory

By 5-hour ENERGY

When you think of classic golf traditions, a few things come to mind: plaid pants, a well-worn putter, a sliced tee shot—and maybe, just maybe, a fizzy, grape-colored drink in hand after 18 holes. That drink? The Transfusion.

More than a cocktail, the Transfusion is a time-honored ritual. It’s a refreshing mix of ginger ale and grape juice – often with a splash of vodka – that’s been quietly passed from golfer to golfer for 60+ years.

But how did this unusual combination become a golf-world legend? The story might be even richer than the drink itself.

The Origins: From Clubhouse Secret to Presidential Sip

The exact origin of the Transfusion is hard to pin down—like a wayward tee shot on a windy par 3. Some bartenders at elite golf clubs trace it back to the 1950s or even earlier. But one popular (and plausible) rumor credits none other than President Dwight D. Eisenhower with helping popularize the drink.

A devoted golfer who spent over 800 days on the course during his presidency, Eisenhower was known to frequent Augusta National Golf Club. According to club lore and whispered anecdotes, he enjoyed a version of the Transfusion during or after rounds, contributing to its rise in popularity among members and guests. While there’s no official record of Ike ordering one by name, the drink's association with Augusta and old-school golf culture keeps his name in the conversation.

By the 1960s and ‘70s, the Transfusion had become a staple at East Coast clubs—especially among caddies and members looking for a post-round pick-me-up that was equal parts sweet, tart, and celebratory. Winged Foot Golf Club in New York is widely credited with keeping the tradition alive, serving up what many claim is the “gold standard” Transfusion.

The Recipe?

The standard Transfusion recipe calls for:

Ginger Ale – Brings bubbles and a bit of spice.

Grape Juice (Concord-style) – The signature purple sweetness.

Optional Lime – For a bright, citrusy finish.

Vodka – Clean and neutral, it's often the base.

Some modern versions swap in Sprite, club soda, or a splash of cranberry, but the grape juice is non-negotiable—it’s the soul of the drink.

Why It’s the Ultimate Golf Drink

So why has this quirky cocktail endured while other golf drinks faded away?

1. It’s Incredibly Refreshing: After walking a few miles and concentrating for hours, a cold Transfusion hits just right.

2. It’s Unique to Golf: You’re unlikely to see it on bar menus anywhere else, making it feel like an insider tradition.

3. It’s Light and Drinkable: Unlike heavier cocktails or beer, it won’t weigh you down.

4. It’s a Bonding Ritual: At many clubs, ordering a Transfusion is a quiet nod to those in the know—a post-round badge of honor.

As Golf.com put it, “The Transfusion is to golf what the Bloody Mary is to brunch.” It’s part hydration, part celebration, and part legacy.

Enter: 5-hour ENERGY® Transfusion Flavor

Inspired by this legendary clubhouse classic, 5-hour ENERGY® Transfusion flavor packs that signature grape-ginger combo into a convenient, non-alcoholic shot. It’s perfect for golfers who want some extra energy on the course without sacrificing taste or tradition.