Join us as we explore various types of cocktails. Introducing the Greyhound, a timeless classic that is both easygoing and refreshing. A lot of people like this drink, and for good reason. For the right balance of sweet and sour, mix grapefruit juice with gin or vodka. Because of its refreshingly straightforward ingredients and lively, zesty flavor profile, I’ve witnessed its rapid rise in popularity during my time working as a bartender. Let’s look at what makes the Greyhound a great drink.
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Tasting Notes
A Greyhound drink is like a cool glass of sunshine. The grapefruit juice gives the first sip a bright, sour taste. Right after that, the gin or vodka gives it a smooth, light warmth. The taste of this drink dances on your tongue, giving you a cool citrus kick and a clean, dry finish. We love the Greyhound. It’s great on hot summer days and when you need a quick pick-me-up.
Equipment and Glassware
To make a great Greyhound, you don’t need any fancy tools. A strainer, a measuring jigger, and a shaker or stirring glass are all you need. A highball glass is the best way to serve this drink. The tall, thin shape shows off the bright color of the drink and gives ice plenty of room to keep it cool.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Gin or Vodka
- 4 oz. Fresh grapefruit juice
- A slice of lime or grapefruit wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Fill your highball glass with ice cubes to chill.
- In a shaker, combine 2 oz of gin or vodka with 4 oz of fresh grapefruit juice.
- Shake well until the mixture is well chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into the ice-filled highball glass.
- Garnish with a lime slice or a grapefruit wedge.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For the best taste, always use fresh grapefruit juice. It’s very different from juice you buy at the store.
- To make the drink sweeter, add a splash of simple syrup to balance out the sour taste of the grapefruit.
- Try out different kinds of vodka or gin until you find the one that goes best with your style. Each brand gives the drink a different taste.
When to Serve
Anytime is a good time to have a Greyhound drink. For brunch, afternoon get-togethers, or a cool start to a night out, this is the right drink. Because it’s light and crisp, it’s a great choice for warm weather, but really, it’s a great choice all year.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For the best Greyhound experience, choosing the right liquor is key. For gin lovers, a London Dry Gin like Tanqueray or Beefeater offers a crisp, herbal touch. Vodka enthusiasts might prefer a smooth, clean brand like Ketel One or Tito’s to let the grapefruit shine. Experimenting with different brands can help you find your personal favorite.
Similar Cocktails
If you love the Greyhound, here are five similar cocktails you might enjoy:
- Paloma – A tequila-based cocktail with grapefruit soda.
- Salty Dog – A Greyhound with a salted rim.
- Sea Breeze – Vodka, cranberry, and grapefruit juice.
- Gin Fizz – Gin, lemon juice, sugar, and carbonated water.
- Gimlet: A classic cocktail featuring a simple yet elegant mix of gin and lime juice, often sweetened with a touch of simple syrup.
History
Greyhound cocktails date back to the 1930s. After vodka became famous in the mid-20th century, it became popular in the US. Greyhounds have been popular for decades due to the simplicity and refreshing taste. Its name may have come from Greyhound buses, which symbolize fast, pleasurable travel.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Gin or Vodka
- 4 oz. Fresh grapefruit juice
- A slice of lime or grapefruit wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Fill your highball glass with ice cubes to chill.
- In a shaker, combine 2 oz of gin or vodka with 4 oz of fresh grapefruit juice.
- Shake well until the mixture is well chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into the ice-filled highball glass.
- Garnish with a lime slice or a grapefruit wedge.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy!