Paul Kushner
When the heat of summer calls for a revitalizing cocktail, the Sea Breeze emerges as a timeless and inviting choice. Comprising a straightforward blend of vodka, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice, this cocktail is both accessible for home mixing and readily available at bars.
Its enduring popularity, spanning decades, is no accident – the Sea Breeze’s delightful flavor and adaptability to individual tastes make it a cherished classic. Whether you’re the host of a summer soiree or simply seeking a cool refreshment for personal enjoyment, the Sea Breeze stands as an excellent choice.
Its minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation ensure it’s a cocktail accessible to all. Mix one today to experience firsthand why this drink remains a timeless favorite.
History
The Sea Breeze cocktail is a refreshing drink that has been enjoyed for decades. The history of this classic cocktail can be traced back to the 1920s when it was first invented. According to liquor.com, the original recipe for the Sea Breeze included gin and grenadine. However, the recipe was later changed to include vodka, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice. The Sea Breeze became popular during the Prohibition era when people were looking for new ways to enjoy alcohol.
It was during this time that Harry Craddock, a bartender at the Savoy Hotel in London, included the Sea Breeze recipe in his famous Savoy Cocktail Book. In the 1930s, Ocean Spray, a cranberry growers’ collective, marketed cranberry juice as a mixer for alcohol. This marketing strategy helped the cranberry industry recover from a major setback. The Sea Breeze was one of the cocktails that helped to popularize cranberry juice as a mixer.
Today, the Sea Breeze is recognized as an official cocktail by the International Bartenders Association (IBA). It is a simple cocktail to make and is perfect for summer days. The refreshing taste of cranberry juice and grapefruit juice makes it a popular choice for many people.
Sea Breeze
Making a Sea Breeze cocktail is easy and requires only a few ingredients.
To make this refreshing drink, you will need vodka, cranberry juice, grapefruit juice, ice cubes, and a lime wedge for garnish.
Here's how to make it:
Ingredients
- 1 ½ fluid ounces of vodka
- 4 fluid ounces of cranberry juice
- 1 fluid ounce of grapefruit juice
- Ice cubes
- Lime wedge (for garnish)
- Optionally, club soda (for added fizz; adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
- Pour 1 ½ fluid ounces of vodka over the ice.
- Add 4 fluid ounces of cranberry juice to the glass.
- Pour 1 fluid ounce of grapefruit juice into the glass.
- Stir the mixture well with a bar spoon.
- Garnish the drink with a lime wedge.
- You can adjust the amount of vodka, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice to suit your taste. Some people prefer a stronger drink, while others prefer a more tart taste.
- You can also add a splash of club soda for some extra fizz.
Notes
If you want to make a Sea Breeze variation, you can substitute the vodka with gin to make a Cape Codder. Alternatively, you can use apricot brandy, lemon, and grenadine to make a Harpoon.
For a saltier taste, you can salt the rim of the glass before adding the ice and ingredients. This is a great way to enjoy a Salty Dog or a Sea Breeze Cooler on a hot summer day.
Overall, the Sea Breeze cocktail is a simple and refreshing drink that is perfect for summer. With its combination of tart cranberry juice and grapefruit juice, it is a great way to cool down and relax.
Variations
If you’re looking to switch up your Sea Breeze game, there are plenty of variations to try out. Here are a few to get you started:
Tequila Sea Breeze
Swap out the vodka for tequila, and you’ve got a Tequila Sea Breeze. This variation is typically served in a highball glass and features tequila, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice.
Bay Breeze
Similar to the Sea Breeze, but with pineapple juice instead of grapefruit juice. The Bay Breeze is a refreshing and fruity cocktail that is perfect for summertime sipping.
Hawaiian Sea Breeze
A tropical twist on the classic Sea Breeze, this variation features orange juice, pineapple juice, and cranberry juice. Add a splash of coconut rum to really take it to the next level.
Greyhound
For a simpler take on the Sea Breeze, try a Greyhound. This cocktail features just vodka and grapefruit juice, and is typically served in a highball glass.
Salty Dog
Another grapefruit-based cocktail, the Salty Dog is made with gin instead of vodka. Rim the glass with salt for an extra kick of flavor.
Cape Codder
Essentially a vodka cranberry, the Cape Codder is a classic cocktail that is easy to make and always refreshing.
Madras
A Madras is similar to a Cape Codder, but with the addition of orange juice. This cocktail is perfect for brunch or a lazy afternoon spent lounging in the sun.
Sea Breeze Cooler
For a lighter take on the Sea Breeze, try a Sea Breeze Cooler. This variation features dry vermouth, blue curaçao, and grenadine, along with the classic grapefruit and cranberry juices.
Apricot Brandy Sea Breeze
For a sweeter take on the Sea Breeze, try adding a splash of apricot brandy. This variation is perfect for those who prefer their cocktails on the fruitier side. No matter which variation you choose, the Sea Breeze is a versatile cocktail that can be customized to suit your tastes. Experiment with different juices, spirits, and mixers to find the perfect combination for you.
What are the ingredients in a Sea Breeze cocktail?
The classic Sea Breeze cocktail has three main ingredients: vodka, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice. Some variations may also include a splash of lime juice or soda water.
How do you make a Sea Breeze cocktail?
To make a Sea Breeze cocktail, fill a highball glass with ice. Add 1 1/2 ounces of vodka, 3 ounces of cranberry juice, and 1 1/2 ounces of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice. Stir well and garnish with a lime wheel. For a sweeter version, add a splash of simple syrup.
What is the difference between a Sea Breeze and a Bay Breeze cocktail?
The main difference between a Sea Breeze and a Bay Breeze cocktail is the addition of pineapple juice in the Bay Breeze. The Bay Breeze is made with vodka, cranberry juice, and pineapple juice, while the Sea Breeze is made with vodka, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice.
What is the history of the Sea Breeze cocktail?
The Sea Breeze cocktail was first created in the United States in the 1920s and 1930s. It became popular in the 1950s and 1960s as a refreshing summer drink.
What are some variations of the Sea Breeze cocktail?
There are many variations of the Sea Breeze cocktail, including:
1. Malibu Sea Breeze: made with Malibu rum instead of vodka
2. Cape Codder: made with vodka and cranberry juice only
3. Ruby Red Sea Breeze: made with ruby red grapefruit juice instead of regular grapefruit juice
4. Pineapple Sea Breeze: made with pineapple juice instead of grapefruit juice
Does the Sea Breeze cocktail contain alcohol?
Yes, the Sea Breeze cocktail contains alcohol. It is typically made with vodka, which has a 40% alcohol content.
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