Watermelon Grapefruit Margarita

The Watermelon Grapefruit Margarita is a bright, citrusy twist on the classic. It blends fresh watermelon and grapefruit juice with lime, tequila, and a splash of Grand Marnier for a smooth, balanced mix of sweet, tart, and bold flavors. A salted rim and a few fresh garnishes make it feel extra fresh without adding any fuss. It’s great for hot days, backyard hangs, or anytime you want something fruity with a little kick.

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Tasting Notes

This Watermelon Grapefruit Margarita has a crisp balance of tart and sweet with a light, juicy feel. The lime and grapefruit juices give it a citrusy kick, while the watermelon softens things out with a mellow, fruity note. Tequila keeps it grounded and smooth, and the Grand Marnier adds just a touch of depth in the background. It’s refreshing and flavorful without being too sharp or sugary. The finish is clean, making it easy to go back for another sip. If you enjoy citrus-forward drinks with a fruit-forward twist, this one fits that profile nicely.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a cocktail shaker, jigger or measuring tool, citrus juicer, and strainer. A fine mesh strainer helps if your watermelon juice has pulp or seeds. A shallow dish with salt will be useful for rimming the glass. A sharp knife and cutting board will help with garnishing. As for the glass, this drink works well in a rocks glass or stemless margarita glass. You could also serve it in a coupe if strained and served up. If you’re making a batch for a group, a large pitcher will come in handy.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz tequila
• 0.5 oz Grand Marnier
• 1.5 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz grapefruit juice
• 2.5 oz watermelon juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• Salt (for rimming)
• Lime, grapefruit, and watermelon slices, for garnish

Instructions

• Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and dip it in salt.
• Fill a shaker with ice.
• Add tequila, Grand Marnier, lime juice, grapefruit juice, watermelon juice, and simple syrup.
• Shake well until chilled.
• Strain into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
• Garnish with a slice of lime, grapefruit, and watermelon.

Pro Tips

• Use freshly squeezed juice for the best flavor.
• Strain watermelon juice through a fine mesh sieve to avoid pulp.
• If your watermelon is super sweet, reduce the simple syrup slightly.
• Chill your glass ahead of time for a cooler sip.
• Try a Tajín rim instead of salt for extra spice.
• Batch it in a pitcher for easy serving at gatherings.
• Use a melon baller for garnish if you want a cleaner look.
• Freeze watermelon cubes and use them as ice.

When to Serve

This Watermelon Grapefruit Margarita is a great pick for summer parties, pool days, or backyard BBQs. It’s refreshing without being too heavy and works well in the afternoon or early evening. You can serve it as a happy hour drink, a weekend brunch cocktail, or as a fun option for casual gatherings. Because it uses fresh fruit juice, it feels right at home on a warm day when guests want something light and cooling. It’s also easy to batch if you’re serving a group, which makes it a smart party choice.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Tequila

• Espolòn Blanco
• Olmeca Altos Plata
• Casamigos Blanco
• El Jimador Silver

Orange Liqueur

• Grand Marnier (as used)
• Cointreau
• Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao

Similar Cocktails

• The Grand Margarita
• Frozen Raspberry Mango Margarita
• Spicy Mango Michelada
• Frozen Blackberry Jalapeño Margarita
• Peach Paloma Spritz