Easy Grapefruit Rosemary Vodka Seltzer

Name: Easy Grapefruit Rosemary Vodka Seltzer
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup water; 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or sugar alternative); 4 fresh rosemary sprigs; .75 oz rosemary simple syrup* (see notes); 3 oz fresh grapefruit juice; .75 oz lime juice; 1.5 oz vodka; 1 can grapefruit spiked seltzer or non alcohol grapefruit seltzer (see notes)

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Cheers with this easy grapefruit rosemary vodka seltzer. Made with real rosemary simple syrup, fresh grapefruit juice and vodka, enjoy this refreshing grapefruit vodka drink anytime of the year.

Two grapefruit rosemary vodka seltzer in highball glasses with rosemary garnish on a pink surface at a 90 degree angel.

I absolutely love using fruit in my cocktails. Whether it is in my strawberry jalapeno margarita, my lemon raspberry mojitos or my cucumber moscow mule, these is nothing better than an at home cocktail with fresh fruit!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Easy to customize. This cocktail can be made with lower ABV by using regular seltzer in place of spike seltzer. If you like your cocktails on the boozier side, however, the spiked seltzer elevates this cocktail. If you love grapefruit cocktails, try my bourbon grapefruit drink!
Real rosemary simple syrup. Using simple syrup in this grapefruit vodka cocktail allows the rosemary flavor to really shine through. If you prefer your cocktail with less rosemary flavor, a simple garnish will be enough!
Impressive, yet simple. This cocktail will impress all of your friends due to unique taste and fancy garnishes. While it tastes like a bartender made it, it is only a few simple steps with ingredients likely already in your pantry.

Ingredients and Substitutions

Grapefruit Juice. Using real grapefruit juice ensures this cocktail is fresh and there are no added sugars. If you do use store bought grapefruit juice, be cautious of added sugar; there is simple syrup in this cocktail, so it can quickly become too sweet.
Rosemary Simple Syrup. I recommend you make your own simple syrup. It is easy and can be done in 15 minutes and allows for the freshest flavor. You can also use store bought rosemary simple syrup. If you prefer not to use the simple syrup, you may garnish with rosemary to add a slight rosemary flavor + add your choice of liquid sweetener (optional).
Vodka. I used a plain vodka for this recipe. If you enjoy more flavor in your cocktails, you can use grapefruit vodka. I also have tried this cocktail with gin, and it worked well.
Spiked Seltzer- This recipe calls for grapefruit spiked seltzer. I like White Claw, but any brand will work. If you prefer to make this recipe with seltzer instead spiked seltzer, you may use a grapefruit flavored seltzer or plain.

Step by Step Instructions

Water boiling in a white sauce pan on a burner

Begin by making the simple syrup. Add water to a small sauce pan and bring to a boil.

Rosemary and sugar added into the same sauce pan on a burner

Once the water begins to boil, add sugar and rosemary then reduce to a simmer, approximately 45-90 seconds.

simple syrup in a white bowl with marble backdrop

After the sugar has dissolved, remove from heat and allow to steep for 10 minutes then strain into a heat resistant jar or cup.

grapefruit rosemary vodka seltzer in highball glass with ice halfway filled (no seltzer added)

Add vodka, grapefruit juice, simple srup and lime juice into a high ball glass and mix. Add ice then fill to the brim with seltzer (spiked or regular).

Storing and Reheating Instructions

The simple syrup can be stored in an air tight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you notice it hardens at all, it could be due to the sugars not fully dissolving. Simply allow the simple syrup to "warm" up or you can microwave it gently for 15 seconds.

Time Saving Hacks

Save 15 minutes and make the rosemary simple syrup prior to making this cocktail. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

FAQs

Which vodkas are grapefruit flavored?

While this recipe calls for plain vodka, you can certainly use grapefruit flavored. Some of my favorites are: Western Son and Deep Eddys.

How long will the rosemary simple syrup last for?

If you refrigerate it, it will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

What happens if I boil simple syrup for too long?

It will become thicker when it cools. This is not an issue, and you can still mix it into the drink.

Tips for Success

Use fresh grapefruit juice from the fruit itself. This will avoid any additional, unwanted sugar added to the drink.
Do not overboil your simple syrup. If you are wondering whether the sugar is dissolved, spoon out a small amount of the liquid while it is simmering. If you see sugar crystals, it has not dissolved fully yet.

Two grapefruit rosemary vodka seltzer in highball glasses with rosemary garnish on a pink surface and juicer in the background

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If you make this recipe, I would absolutely love for you to leave a rating and review.