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Grapefruit Rickey Drink recipe

Highball glass

Refreshingly tangy Grapefruit Rickey cocktail recipe with a twist of Grapefruit Liqueur Vedrenne, zesty Grapefruit Juice, and bubbly Squirt Soda. Perfectly served in an ice-cold Highball glass, garnished with a Grapefruit Peel. Learn how to mix this easy-to-follow recipe for a delightful citrusy drink in just a few minutes!


Grapefruit Rickey Ingredients

Grapefruit Rickey Recipe

  1. stir the ingredients together with ice
  2. pour into Highball glass half full with ice cubes

Recommend: serve in Highball glass

The highball (or hi-ball) and collins glasses have a lot in common. They can both be used for tall beverages and hold the same amount of liquid, which can range from 8 to 16 ounces.

The Grapefruit Rickey: A Delicious Twist to a Classic Cocktail

As a professional bartender, I have seen many cocktails rise and fall in popularity. However, one cocktail that has stood the test of time is the Rickey. This simple yet refreshing cocktail has been around for over a century and continues to be a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Grapefruit Rickey, a variation of the classic Rickey that has gained popularity in recent years.

Popularity

History and Origins

The Rickey was invented in the late 19th century in Washington D.C. by bartender George A. Williamson. The original Rickey was made with bourbon, lime juice, and carbonated water. However, over the years, the recipe has evolved and new variations have emerged, including the Grapefruit Rickey.

Famous For

The Rickey is famous for its simplicity and refreshing taste. It's a perfect cocktail for those who prefer a lighter, less sweet drink. The Grapefruit Rickey, in particular, is known for its tangy flavor and citrusy aroma.

Geographic

The Rickey has roots in Washington D.C., but it quickly became popular all over the United States. Today, you can find Rickeys on cocktail menus in bars and restaurants across the country.

Appearance

The Grapefruit Rickey is a beautiful cocktail that is sure to catch your eye. It has a pale pink color that comes from the grapefruit juice and grapefruit liqueur. When served in a highball glass with a grapefruit peel garnish, it's a cocktail that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredient Roles

The Grapefruit Rickey is a simple cocktail that only requires a few ingredients. Let's take a closer look at each ingredient and its role in the cocktail:

  • Grapefruit Liqueur Vedrenne: This is the star of the show. The grapefruit liqueur adds a tangy, citrusy flavor to the cocktail that's hard to resist.
  • Grapefruit Juice: The grapefruit juice provides additional citrus flavor and acidity to the cocktail.
  • Squirt Soda: The soda adds a bit of effervescence to the cocktail and balances out the tartness of the grapefruit.
  • Ice: The ice is essential to keep the cocktail cold and refreshing.
  • Grapefruit Peel: The grapefruit peel is used as a garnish and adds a beautiful aroma to the cocktail.

How to Garnish

The Grapefruit Rickey is typically served with a grapefruit peel garnish. To do this, simply take a piece of grapefruit peel and twist it over the cocktail to release the oils. Then, place the peel in the glass as a garnish. This adds a beautiful aroma to the cocktail and enhances the grapefruit flavor.

Variations

There are several variations of the Grapefruit Rickey that cater to different dietary needs and tastes. Here are a few examples:

Virgin/Mocktail Version

To make a virgin or mocktail version of the Grapefruit Rickey, simply omit the grapefruit liqueur and replace it with additional grapefruit juice. The result is a refreshing and tangy drink that's perfect for those who don't consume alcohol.

Gluten-Free Version

The Grapefruit Rickey is naturally gluten-free since it doesn't contain any gluten-containing ingredients. However, if you want to make sure your cocktail is 100% gluten-free, make sure to use a gluten-free grapefruit liqueur like Giffard or Stirrings.

Vegan Version

The Grapefruit Rickey is vegan-friendly since it doesn't contain any animal products. Just make sure to use a vegan-friendly grapefruit liqueur like St. Elder or Giffard.

Keto Version

To make a keto-friendly version of the Grapefruit Rickey, use a sugar-free soda like Zevia and replace the grapefruit liqueur with a keto-friendly sweetener like stevia or erythritol.

Low-Calorie Version

The Grapefruit Rickey is already a low-calorie cocktail, but if you want to reduce the calorie count even further, use a low-calorie soda like Diet Squirt or Zevia.

Common Mistakes When Making

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making the Grapefruit Rickey:

  • Using too much grapefruit liqueur: While the grapefruit liqueur is the star of the show, it's important not to overdo it. Too much grapefruit liqueur can overpower the other flavors in the cocktail.
  • Using the wrong soda: Make sure to use a soda that complements the grapefruit flavor, like Squirt or Zevia. Avoid using sodas that are too sweet or too bitter.
  • Not garnishing with a grapefruit peel: The grapefruit peel adds a beautiful aroma to the cocktail and enhances the grapefruit flavor. Don't skip this step!

In conclusion, the Grapefruit Rickey is a delicious and refreshing twist on a classic cocktail. With its tangy flavor and beautiful appearance, it's no wonder this cocktail has gained popularity in recent years. Whether you're looking for a low-calorie drink or a keto-friendly option, there's a variation of the Grapefruit Rickey that's perfect for you. So, the next time you're in the mood for a refreshing cocktail, give the Grapefruit Rickey a try!

If you are going to order Grapefruit Rickey in a bar, don’t forget to mention all the ingredients to the bartender. Grapefruit Rickey can be served with different ingredients in different places.