The weather has been just gorgeous in San Diego recently. I know this may seem like a given, but we have had plenty of (much-needed) rainy days this year, and sunshine has been sporadic. When the warm winds move in and the sky is crisp and clear, I shake up a chilled glass of Grapefruit Chile Spritz.
Rain or shine, there is still a plethora of vibrant citrus fruit available at the markets, including many varieties of grapefruit. This cocktail features a unique grapefruit called Oro Blanco, one of the sweeter varietals. Start with a cocktail shaker, a few slices of Fresno chile and a muddler. Pound away at the red chiles to release fragrant, fiery oils. Next, add freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, honey syrup, blanc vermouth and elderflower liqueur. Shake until chilled, then top off with fizzy soda water. The finished cocktail is bright and refreshing with just a hint of red pepper heat. Continue reading for the recipe.
The Oro Blanco grapefruit is actually a cross between a white grapefruit and pomelo. It’s not as bitter as some of its grapefruit brethren. If you can’t find Oro Blanco grapefruits, you can use a more common ruby red grapefruit or white grapefruit. You may need to add more honey syrup to balance the bitterness.
Grapefruit Chile Spritz Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 slices fresno chile or jalapeno
- 1 1/2 ounces vodka
- 1 1/2 ounces freshly squeezed grapefruit juice (I used Oro Blanco grapefruits here)
- 1/4 ounce honey syrup*, plus more to taste
- 1/2 ounce blanc vermouth
- 1/4 ounce St. Germain elderflower liqueur
- 3 ounces chilled soda water
1 strip grapefruit zest, for garnish
Instructions
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Muddle chile slices in a cocktail shaker, then add vodka, grapefruit juice, honey syrup, vermouth, elderflower liqueur and ice. Shake until well chilled. Taste for sweetness and add more honey syrup as needed.*
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Strain cocktail into a tumbler filled with ice. Top off with soda water and garnish with grapefruit zest.
Recipe Notes
*Place 2 parts honey to 1 part water in a measuring cup. For example, 1/4 cup honey and 2 tablespoons water. Warm in a microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently, until the honey dissolves into the water. You can also do this on the stovetop over medium heat, but I find the microwave works well for small amounts.
Check out some other grapefruit recipes on Kitchen Konfidence:
Hop, Skip and Go Naked
Citrus Pickled Onions
Grapefruit Infused Rum
The Patio’s Plumosa
Salted Tarragon Greyhound
Brian @ A Thought For Food says
I came here expecting to find a tequila drink and, to my (pleasant) surprise, here’s a drink that’s so much more vibrant than I could’ve imagined. Beautifully constructed, Brandon! I’m going to hold onto this one for a beautiful summer day on Cape Cod.
Brandon Matzek says
Yes!!! This would be a perfect cocktail for the Cape. By the way I do have a grapefruit tequila cocktail coming soon 😉
Averie @ Averie Cooks says
This looks like such an awesome cocktail! I’ve never had that kind of grapefruit before but now I’m going to try it!
And yes to the gorgeous weather we’ve been having! Sunny days and warmer weather and spring is definitely in the air!
Brandon Matzek says
Thanks! It’s a tasty treat this time of the year.
Liz @ Floating Kitchen says
This cocktail sounds fantastic. I love a bit of heat in my drink, so this is perfect for me. Never heard of an Oro Blanco grapefruit before. I’ll keep my eyes peeled for them!
Brandon Matzek says
Thanks Liz!! Yeah that little extra heat really adds a spark to each sip.
Carrie @ Bakeaholic Mama says
Oh man do I need this. I’m a tad obsessed with grapefruit cocktails.
Brandon Matzek says
Me too! Thanks Carrie.
Taylor @ Food Faith Fitness says
The combo of this drink is SO awesome! Love the spicy sourness! Pinned!
Brandon Matzek says
Thanks Taylor! Yeah, it’s super refreshing.
noami says
This cocktail is everything! I can’t wait to try it. Bookmarked
Brandon Matzek says
Yaaaassss!! Thanks Naomi 🙂
Lauren @ Climbing Grier Mountain says
Well, this is certainly one way to get over the hump! Cheers!
Brandon Matzek says
Haha yes!! Thanks Lauren 🙂
gerry speirs says
Awesome colors, I have a similar kinda recipe coming soon but booze free (what???). SoCal is the best place to kick back with this type of drink 🙂
Brandon Matzek says
Thanks Gerry! The color does make me smile. And yes! I just love SoCal citrus season. More and more varietals come out each year.
Megan {Country Cleaver} says
What gorgeousness!! I can taste this tingly drink already!
Brandon Matzek says
Thanks Megan!!