The Greyhound is a simple, refreshing cocktail built from tart grapefruit juice and a clean spirit. Light, bright, and easy to make, it’s a perfect choice for brunch, warm afternoons, or any time you want a citrus-forward mixed drink.
The classic Greyhound combines freshly squeezed grapefruit juice with vodka or gin for a crisp, slightly tart cocktail that never feels heavy. It’s closely related to other popular vodka-and-juice drinks — for example, a Cape Codder uses cranberry juice instead of grapefruit, while a Sea Breeze blends grapefruit and cranberry together. This version keeps things clean and straightforward: just grapefruit and your spirit of choice. If you prefer a sweeter drink, stir in a little simple syrup or use a flavored vodka, but the bright grapefruit alone is delicious and makes this feel perfectly breakfast-appropriate.
Ingredient Notes and Shopping Tips
Vodka or Gin: Choose a mid-range vodka or a neutral gin you enjoy. Flavored vodkas (grapefruit, orange, or peach) work nicely if you want an added dimension without extra mixers.
Grapefruit: Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice delivers the best flavor — it’s brighter and less processed than bottled juice. One large grapefruit typically yields enough juice for a single drink; plan for an extra fruit if making several cocktails.
Tips and Tricks
- Shake or Stir: Shake grapefruit juice and spirit with ice for a chilled, slightly frothy finish. If you don’t have a shaker, a covered jar will work.
- Keep it Crisp: To avoid dilution, freeze grapefruit juice into ice cubes and use them instead of water ice.
- Garnish: A lime, grapefruit, or orange wedge brightens the presentation and adds a little aroma.
- Batch Prep: Multiply the recipe by six and make it in a pitcher for a crowd. Add ice and garnish just before serving.
- Drink Responsibly: This recipe contains one standard shot of liquor per serving; enjoy in moderation.
More Easy Cocktails
Peach Sangria • Raspberry Daiquiri • Amaretto Sour • Peach Bellini • Colorado Bulldog • Sex On The Beach
Recipe
Greyhound Drink
A tart and refreshing cocktail made with grapefruit juice and vodka or gin. Ready in minutes and ideal for brunch or a sunny afternoon.
Course: Drink
Cuisine: American-style cocktail
Prep Time: 5 minutes • Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 drink • Calories: 163 kcal
Author: Krystle Smith
Ingredients
- 5 ounces freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
- 1 ½ ounces vodka or gin
- Ice
- Garnish: lime, grapefruit, or orange wedge (optional)
Instructions
- Cut a grapefruit in half and squeeze the juice. Strain to remove pulp and seeds for a smooth drink.
- Fill a tall glass with ice and set aside.
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the grapefruit juice and vodka (or gin). Shake for 10–15 seconds to chill and combine. If you don’t have a shaker, use a mason jar with a tight lid.
- Pour the shaken mixture into the prepared glass. Garnish with a citrus wedge if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
Vodka or Gin: A mid-level vodka gives a clean background to the grapefruit. Gin adds botanical notes that play nicely with citrus.
Fresh Juice: Freshly squeezed juice makes a noticeable difference — it’s brighter and less sweet than bottled juice. If you prefer a sweeter profile, add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon simple syrup or choose a flavored vodka.
Avoid Over-Dilution: Make ice cubes from grapefruit juice to keep flavor intact as the drink chills.
Nutrition
Calories: 163 kcal | Carbohydrates: 16 g | Protein: 1 g | Fat: 1 g | Sodium: 3 mg | Potassium: 230 mg | Fiber: 1 g | Sugar: 16 g | Vitamin A: 10 IU | Vitamin C: 38 mg | Calcium: 11 mg | Iron: 1 mg
