There’s something about a Sea Breeze that just feels like vacation in a glass. Light, fruity, and wonderfully refreshing, it’s one of those cocktails that comes together in seconds but makes any moment feel special. I’ve made this drink countless times-it’s been my go-to for relaxed summer evenings, especially when I want something easy but still a little fancy.
Sea Breeze
It’s all about the mix of tart cranberry and zippy grapefruit, smoothed out with vodka and served icy cold. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting brunch, or just winding down after work, this one’s a keeper.
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glassware: Highball glass or stemless wine glass
Make-Ahead: Mix the juices and vodka ahead of time and chill. Add ice and garnish just before serving.
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
– 4 oz (120 ml) cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened)
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) grapefruit juice (freshly squeezed if you can)
– Ice cubes (enough to fill your glass)
– Lime wheel or wedge, for garnish
Method
- Start with a chilled highball glass. Fill it with ice-enough to keep your drink nice and cold without watering it down too quickly.
- Pour in 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka.
- Add 4 oz (120 ml) cranberry juice and 1.5 oz (45 ml) grapefruit juice.
- Give it a gentle stir-just enough to mix everything without losing that layered look.
- Top with a lime wheel or wedge. Give it a little squeeze before dropping it in if you like extra citrus zing.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh juice when possible. It makes a huge difference-especially with grapefruit juice, which can taste bitter or flat from a bottle.
– Chill your glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before making the drink. It helps keep everything crisp.
– Want that beautiful color gradient? Pour the cranberry juice slowly over the back of a spoon-it’ll float on top before mixing in.
– This cocktail is on the lighter side alcohol-wise, so it’s perfect for sipping without getting too buzzed.
Storage
– You can mix the juices and vodka up to 24 hours ahead and keep it sealed in the fridge.
– Don’t add ice or garnish until you’re ready to serve-it’ll stay fresh and flavorful that way.
Serving Suggestions
The Sea Breeze is super versatile. It’s great on its own, but even better with the right snack or meal:
– Grilled Chicken: The smoky char pairs perfectly with the cocktail’s tart brightness.
– Avocado Salad: Creamy, rich avocado balances out the citrus punch.
– Soft Cheese Board: Think brie or goat cheese. The cocktail’s acidity cuts through the richness like a charm.
Recipe Variations
Sometimes I like to mix things up, and the Sea Breeze is easy to tweak:
Harbor Breeze
– Add a splash (about 0.5 oz/15 ml) of peach schnapps for a little sweetness and fruity depth.
Stormy Sea Breeze
– Swap the grapefruit juice for ginger beer. It adds a spicy, fizzy kick.
Tropical Sea Breeze
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) pineapple juice and a splash of coconut cream. Shake with ice and strain for a smooth, beachy treat.
Virgin Sea Breeze (Mocktail)
– Skip the vodka. Just mix cranberry and grapefruit juice over ice and garnish with lime. It’s still super refreshing and flavorful.
Substitutions & Adjustments
– No grapefruit juice? Try orange juice for a sweeter take, or lemon juice (diluted with a bit of water) for a sharper edge.
– Prefer it less sweet? Use unsweetened cranberry juice or add a splash of soda water to lighten things up.
– No vodka on hand? White rum or gin can work in a pinch, though the flavor will change slightly.
Common Pitfalls
– Too sweet? Check your cranberry juice label-many are packed with sugar. Go for 100% juice if you can.
– Too bitter? Some grapefruits are more bitter than others. Taste your juice first and adjust with a little extra cranberry if needed.
– Watered down? Add the ice last if you’re prepping ahead, or use larger cubes that melt slower.
Q&A
Can I use bottled juice?
Yes, absolutely. Just aim for juices labeled 100% juice with no added sugar. Freshly squeezed is best, but not required.
Is this a strong drink?
Not really. It’s light and easy to sip, which makes it great for daytime events or when you want just a gentle buzz.
Can I batch this for a party?
Totally. Just multiply the ingredients and mix everything in a pitcher. Add ice and garnish individually when serving.
When’s the best time to enjoy one?
Anytime you want a taste of summer-poolside, picnic, or even cozying up on the couch with a good book.
How can I make it look fancier?
Try garnishing with a sprig of mint or a slice of starfruit. A pretty straw or cocktail pick can make it feel extra special.
Final Thoughts
The Sea Breeze is one of those drinks that never goes out of style. It’s simple, refreshing, and endlessly adaptable. I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-work cocktails because it’s a breeze (pun intended) to make and always hits the spot. Whether you’re new to mixing drinks or a seasoned home bartender, this one deserves a spot in your rotation. Cheers!
