This refreshing cocktail is one of my go-to drinks for summer afternoons and casual get-togethers. The Rosemary Grapefruit Mule brings together the bright, tangy flavor of grapefruit, the gentle warmth of vodka, and the spicy fizz of ginger beer. Add a touch of homemade rosemary syrup, and you’ve got a drink that’s both vibrant and soothing-perfect for sipping on a porch swing or serving at brunch with friends.
Rosemary Grapefruit Mule
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Copper mug (or highball glass as a backup)
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
– ½ cup (120 ml) freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1 oz (30 ml) rosemary simple syrup (see tip below)
– Ginger beer, to top up
– Ice, as needed
– 1 sprig fresh rosemary, for garnish
– 1 grapefruit slice, for garnish
Method
- Chill your mug or glass. Pop it in the freezer for a few minutes while you prep. This helps keep your drink icy cold.
- Fill the mug with ice. Plenty of it-this drink is best served extra cold.
- Add the vodka and grapefruit juice. Pour them right over the ice.
- Add rosemary simple syrup. Stir gently to mix everything together. If you like a stronger rosemary flavor, lightly muddle a rosemary sprig in the mug before adding the liquids.
- Top with ginger beer. Fill to the top, leaving a little room if you like a stronger citrus flavor (or top off more for a lighter drink).
- Garnish and serve. Tuck in a rosemary sprig and a slice of grapefruit. Give it a gentle stir and enjoy immediately.
Tips
– Rosemary Simple Syrup: Combine 1 cup (240 ml) water, 1 cup (200 g) sugar, and 3-4 rosemary sprigs in a saucepan. Simmer until the sugar dissolves, then let it steep off heat for 30 minutes. Strain and refrigerate. Keeps up to 2 weeks.
– Fresh juice matters. Use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice often lacks the brightness and can be too sweet.
– Make-ahead tip: You can prep the syrup and juice ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge and assemble the cocktail fresh.
Flavor Notes
You’ll taste the bold, zesty grapefruit right away-bright and slightly bitter in the best way. Then comes a whisper of rosemary, earthy and fragrant, followed by the gingery fizz that ties it all together. It’s refreshing, herbal, and a little bit spicy.
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s something I learned: if you want the rosemary flavor to really shine, muddle a small sprig in the bottom of the mug before adding the ice. It’s a tiny step that makes a big difference.
Substitutions & Variations
– Swap the vodka: Use gin for a more botanical twist or tequila for a citrus-forward kick.
– Make it lighter: Use diet ginger beer or add a splash of sparkling water to reduce sweetness and calories.
– Herb switch: Try thyme or basil in place of rosemary for a different herbal note.
– Lavender Mule: Use lavender syrup instead of rosemary for a floral variation.
– Spicy Mule: Muddle a thin slice of jalapeño in the mug for a subtle heat.
– Non-alcoholic version: Skip the vodka and add extra ginger beer or a splash of soda water.
Storage
– Rosemary syrup: Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
– Grapefruit juice: Fresh juice is best within 2-3 days. Keep refrigerated in a sealed container.
Assembled cocktails don’t store well, so it’s best to make each drink fresh.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with food, especially dishes that play well with citrus and herbs:
– Grilled chicken: The smoky, savory flavors balance the grapefruit’s brightness.
– Seafood: Shrimp, scallops, or grilled fish are all great matches.
– Vegetarian plates: Think grilled veggies, citrusy salads, or herbed couscous.
It’s also a fantastic choice for brunch spreads or warm-weather gatherings-easy to make, easy to love.
FAQs
Can I make it ahead of time?
Not the whole drink, but you can prep the syrup and juice. Mix everything just before serving to keep the fizz fresh.
What’s the best glass to use?
A copper mug is traditional and keeps the drink colder longer, but a tall highball glass works too.
How do I make it less sweet?
Cut back on the rosemary syrup or use a natural sweetener like stevia in your homemade syrup.
Can I use bottled juice?
You can, but fresh-squeezed tastes brighter and gives you better control over sweetness.
What if I don’t have rosemary syrup?
You can use plain simple syrup, but the rosemary gives the cocktail its signature flavor. Try infusing the syrup with another herb you have on hand.
This drink has become one of my favorites to serve when I want something a little different but still crowd-pleasing. It’s bright, herbal, and just the right amount of fizzy. Whether you’re sipping it at a weekend brunch or winding down after a long day, the Rosemary Grapefruit Mule always hits the spot.
