Grapefruit Rosemary Cocktail
Summer has finally arrived, and I am so looking forward to relishing cocktails on the patio with a fire pit burning. This Grapefruit Rosemary Cocktail is a great go-to. Vodka, elderflower liqueur and vanilla syrup are shaken cold and topped with pink grapefruit sparkling water. If you love my Cucumber Gin Gimlet, this is another refreshing favorite.
Moreover, it can be made for two or batched for entertaining. Equally important, even guests who are not grapefruit fans are impressed.
In essence, it is bright, floral and so easy. Serve it with my Leia Pineapple Cocktail for a summer menu.
What Is a Grapefruit Rosemary Cocktail?
It is a light vodka cocktail with elderflower and vanilla, topped with pink grapefruit bubbles and fresh rosemary.
Grapefruit Rosemary Cocktail Ingredients (With Purpose & Flavor Notes)
Vodka
A clean base.
Elderflower Liqueur
Floral and sweet.
Vanilla Syrup
Warm sweetness.
Pink Grapefruit Sparkling Water
Bubbles and citrus.
Rosemary & Grapefruit
An aromatic garnish.
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Cocktail Shaker
For the host building a home bar. It chills the drink and bruises the mint.
Double Jigger
For anyone who free-pours. It keeps the Chambord and bourbon in balance.
Mesh Strainers
For straining the hibiscus tea and the torn mint, so nothing floats in the glass.
Bar Strainer
For the double strain. It fits over the shaker tin and holds back the ice.
Wine Glasses
For the hostess who wants one glass for wine and cocktails. They hold plenty of ice.
Citrus Juicer
For the brunch host juicing more than one grapefruit. Fresh juice matters here.
Electric Kettle
For the tea lover. It heats the water for the hibiscus tea and pours cleanly.
Measuring Cups
For steeping the tea. Cover the cup while it steeps, then pour from the spout.
Ice Cube Trays
For the guest who sips slowly. Big cubes keep the drink cold without watering it down.
Paring Knife
For clean grapefruit slices on the rim. The one knife every home bar needs.
Serving Tray
For carrying a round of drinks to the table, with the garnishes alongside.
Linen Napkins
For the host who loves the details. A small touch under every cold glass.
How To Make a Grapefruit Rosemary Cocktail
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Shake vodka, elderflower and vanilla syrup.
- Strain over ice and top with sparkling water.
- Garnish with rosemary and grapefruit.
Grapefruit Rosemary Cocktail
Ingredients
- 1 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz elderflower liqueur
- 1/2 oz vanilla syrup
- 3 oz pink grapefruit sparkling water
- 1 sprig rosemary for garnish
- 1 slice grapefruit for garnish
- ice
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake the vodka, elderflower liqueur and vanilla syrup until cold.
- Strain into an ice-filled glass and float the pink grapefruit sparkling water on top.
- Garnish with a rosemary sprig and grapefruit slice.
Notes
KEEP HOSTING
More to pour from the bar — three cocktails worth shaking up next.
The Perfect Raspberry Lemonade
Cool, tart and endlessly refreshing for warm afternoons.
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Delicious Lemonade Prosecco Punch
A big-batch punch that keeps the whole table refreshed and happy.
Pour a Glass →
Springtime Limoncello Cocktail
Bright Italian citrus with a sunny, sweet-tart finish.
Pour a Glass →
Variations
Gin
Swap vodka for gin.
Fresh Juice
Use fresh grapefruit juice and soda water.
Paloma Style
Use tequila.
Mocktail
Skip the spirits and add a splash of elderflower syrup.
Salted Rim
Rim the glass with salt and sugar.
Batch
Multiply everything but the bubbles.
When I Love Serving a Grapefruit Rosemary Cocktail
Patio Nights
Refreshing by the fire pit.
Summer Brunch
Bright and floral.
Showers
Pretty and pink.
Date Night
Elegant and easy.
Pool Parties
Light and cool.
Girls’ Night
Always a hit.
What To Serve With a Grapefruit Rosemary Cocktail
Something Salty
My Salami Chips or Caviar Potato Chips.
An Elegant Bite
A Showstopper Board
My Caviar Board.
Seafood Crostini
My Smoked Salmon, Dill & Caviar Crostini.
A Cocktail Flight
Set out my Martini Board.
Something Sweet
Shelf Life & Storage Tips
Make Ahead
Batch the vodka, elderflower and syrup and refrigerate up to 2 days; top with bubbles to serve.
Garnishes
Slice citrus and prep herbs up to a day ahead and keep covered in the refrigerator.
Leftovers
Mixed drinks with bubbles are best enjoyed right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is elderflower liqueur?
A sweet, floral liqueur made from elderflowers.
Can I use fresh grapefruit?
Yes, with a splash of soda water.
Where do I find vanilla syrup?
In the coffee aisle, or make your own.
Can I batch it?
Yes, add the sparkling water to order.
How many does it serve?
One cocktail.
Final Thoughts
This grapefruit cocktail is my patio essential. With this in mind, I hope it becomes one of your go-to pours for gathering with the people you love.
All things considered, a great drink is one of the easiest ways to make guests feel celebrated. Please enjoy responsibly, and if you make it, I would love to hear how you served it.
Erica A. Thomas
Founder of Eating With Erica
SAVE NOW, MAKE LATER!
is it possible to use vanilla vodka instead of vanilla syrup (thinking too much sugar)? The drink looks delicious.
yes! thank you for reading.