Rosemary Refresher

by | Nov 16, 2022 | Food & Drink, Recipes

A fusion of grapefruit and rosemary elevates any typical vodka cocktail into an aromatic and refreshing fall drink.

One evening, after raking leaves in my yard, I decided it was time for a drink and relaxation. I have a huge rosemary bush in my yard and I wanted to use some of its lemony-pine-like flavor for an iconic element of autumn. I also had some pink grapefruits that I had just gotten from the market. Grapefruits are available all year long, but on the East Coast they are seasonally best October through June.

I went to our bar to see what liquor options I had on hand. My spouse came running down the steps after hearing me clanging bottles and glasses in the bar. I have learned that if you rattle a cocktail shaker, they will come.

For this recipe I used vodka because it is my go-to liquor. But my spouse is partial to bourbon, so I created it both ways, and they were both exceptionally tantalizing.

Smashing the grapefruit with the honey and rosemary sprigs omits the most pleasantly distinctive bouquet. I poured the pleasantly colored cocktail into our ice-filled glasses and garnished with grapefruit slices and sprigs of rosemary. The color of the bourbon-based second round was not as pleasant, but it was tasty nonetheless.

If you are in search of a thirst-quenching cocktail that offers the flavors of fall, then this is your drink. The recipe below is for a pitcher of four drinks that’s perfect for sharing with friends. Try it both ways!

Print Recipe
Grapefruit and Rosemary Fusion
A fusion of grapefruit and rosemary elevates any typical vodka cocktail into an aromatic and refreshing fall drink.
Cocktail Grapefruit Rosemary
Course Cocktail
Cuisine cocktail
Servings
drinks
Ingredients
Course Cocktail
Cuisine cocktail
Servings
drinks
Ingredients
Cocktail Grapefruit Rosemary
Instructions
  1. Combine half the grapefruit wedges, honey and a few rosemary sprigs in a large pitcher and mash with a muddler or wooden spoon.
  2. Add grapefruit juice, vodka and lime juice; stir to combine.
  3. Serve over ice and garnish with remaining grapefruit wedges and rosemary.

About the author

Sandi Grigg

Sandi Grigg

Growing up in a small town in the foothills of North Carolina and attending the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, I always dreamed of working on the coast. I earned my degree in Marketing/Branding and started to build a life with my spouse and son. Together, we enjoy fishing, going to hear live music and spending time with family. At home I love to cook and write recipes, take on DIY home improvement endeavors and grill out with friends. Being a part of the Carolina Marketing Company team has showed me that you really can enjoy your job, and we feel like a family. I am truly grateful to have a career I love.