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Grapefruit Sunrise

Grapefruit Sunrise

The Grapefruit Sunrise is bright, refreshing, and full of citrus flavor. It combines fresh grapefruit juice with tequila and a splash of grenadine for that beautiful layered sunrise effect. The tartness of the grapefruit balances perfectly with the sweetness of the grenadine, creating a drink that’s both bold and easy to sip. Serve it over ice in a tall glass, and watch the colors blend as you stir. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge or a cherry for a simple finish. It’s a great choice for brunch, happy hour, or any time you’re craving something fresh and colorful.

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Tasting Notes

The Grapefruit Sunrise is bright, crisp, and refreshing with a slightly sweet finish. The vodka adds a clean base that lets the citrus flavors shine. Red grapefruit juice brings a tart, fruity punch, while the orange liqueur smooths everything out with a subtle sweetness. Fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zippy note that keeps the drink lively. A splash of grenadine settles at the bottom, creating a beautiful layered effect and just a touch of sweetness. Garnishing with a grapefruit slice and rosemary sprig adds fresh aroma and visual appeal, making this drink as beautiful as it is refreshing.

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Equipment and Glassware

For this cocktail, you’ll need a cocktail shaker to combine the ingredients quickly and chill them well. A jigger ensures accurate measurements for consistent flavor. Strain the drink into a tall glass, like a highball or Collins glass, which showcases the colorful layered effect of the grenadine. A bar spoon is helpful if you want to carefully pour the grenadine for the sunrise effect. Use a small knife and cutting board to prepare the grapefruit slices, and have fresh rosemary on hand for garnish. Chilling your glass ahead of time helps keep the drink cooler longer.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz vodka
  • 1.5 oz red grapefruit juice
  • 1 oz Cointreau
  • 0.5 oz lemon juice
  • Splash of grenadine
  • Garnish: grapefruit slices and rosemary sprig

Instructions

  • In a shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, grapefruit juice, cointreau, and lemon juice. Shake well until chilled.
  • Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
  • Slowly pour a splash of grenadine down the side of the glass. Let it settle at the bottom for a beautiful gradient.
  • Add a grapefruit slice and a sprig of rosemary for a fragrant, elegant finish.

Pro Tips

  • Use freshly squeezed grapefruit and lemon juice if possible for the brightest flavors.
  • When adding the grenadine, pour it gently down the side of the glass or over the back of a spoon to help it settle at the bottom and create the sunrise effect.
  • For a stronger herbal aroma, gently slap the rosemary sprig between your hands before garnishing.
  • You can also chill the glass before serving to help keep the drink cool longer.
  • If you prefer a slightly sweeter drink, add a little extra grenadine.
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When to Serve

The Grapefruit Sunrise is perfect for brunches, afternoon gatherings, and cocktail hours. Its bright color and refreshing flavor make it a great choice for spring and summer events. Serve it at outdoor parties, bridal showers, or as a signature drink for a brunch menu. It also works well as a welcome drink when you want something light and eye-catching. Because it’s easy to make and looks impressive, it’s a great choice for casual entertaining and special occasions alike.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

  • For vodka, choose a smooth, clean brand like Tito’s, Absolut, or Ketel One. These options blend well without overpowering the citrus flavors.
  • For the orange liqueur, Cointreau offers a premium option with a balanced citrus flavor, but Grand Marnier or DeKuyper Triple Sec are great alternatives depending on your budget.
  • Use a good-quality grenadine like Liber & Co or Stirrings for a richer color and flavor.
  • For the grapefruit juice drink, choose one that’s not too sweet and has a bright, tart flavor for the best results.

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Grapefruit Sunrise

Grapefruit Sunrise

Prep Time: 4 minutes
No ratings yet
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Grapefruit Juice, grenadine, grenadine cocktails, Lemon Juice, lemon juice cocktails, red grapefruit juice, Vodka, vodka cocktails
Servings: 1
Author: Paul Kushner

Instructions

  • In a shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, grapefruit juice, cointreau, and lemon juice. Shake well until chilled.
  • Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
  • Slowly pour a splash of grenadine down the side of the glass. Let it settle at the bottom for a beautiful gradient.
  • Add a grapefruit slice and a sprig of rosemary for a fragrant, elegant finish.

Notes

Pro Tips

  • For a bolder herbal note, lightly torch or clap the rosemary before garnishing.
  • Use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
  • To make it a spritz, top with a splash of club soda or sparkling wine.
Tried this recipe?Leave a comment and let us know how it was!
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Paul Kushner

Written by Paul Kushner

Founder and CEO of MyBartender. Graduated from Penn State University. He always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. His restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time he turned 17 he was serving tables, and by 19 he was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.

In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, Paul opened his first restaurant/bar. In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

Follow them on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, Google Guide and MuckRack.

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