Whiskey Grapefruit Cocktail

This Whiskey Grapefruit Cocktail is formerly known as a Ruby Red Jubilee Cocktail on our site, but now has a simpler, more straightforward name. A take on one of my favorite drinks, the classic Brown Derby cocktail, and somewhat similar to a Whiskey Sour, it’s a sweet and tart cocktail with no shortage of one of my favorite spirits.

 

Ingredients

All you need are a few simple ingredients to whip up this show-stopping cocktail.

• Whiskey – Tangy grapefruit juice pairs well with both bourbon and rye whiskey. Choose your favorite — you can’t go wrong either way!
• Grapefruit Juice – Not only does the juice add its signature flavor to the drink, but it adds pretty color to it, too.
• Fresh Lime Juice – This adds a touch more citrusy flavor to the drink that complements the grapefruit.
• Simple Syrup – This is key for rounding out the cocktail with a little bit of sweetness.
• Dash of Ground Cinnamon – While it’s optional, I love the warm flavor and aroma that cinnamon adds. It pairs beautifully with the whiskey.
• Grapefruit Slices – This optional garnish takes the cocktail to the next level.

Variations

Switch a few things up to turn this citrusy cocktail with its grapefruit twist into your own signature concoction.

• Spiciness – Infuse jalapenos into your simple syrup for a spicy take.
• Sweetness – Try honey or maple syrup in place of simple syrup. Or make a honey syrup by using honey instead of sugar in the simple syrup.
• Citrus – Use fresh lemon juice or orange juice in place of lime.
• Garnish – Try using an orange peel instead of a grapefruit wedge or slice to garnish the citrusy drink. It’s also amazing with a salted rim that incorporates grapefruit zest. Or, opt for a fresh sprig of rosemary for an herbal twist.
• Bitters – Shake in a dash or two of Angostura bitters to round out the drink.

How to Make a Whiskey Grapefruit Cocktail

It couldn’t be easier to make this pretty cocktail! If you’re looking for a grapefruit cocktail that is not a paloma, this may just become your go-to.

1. Combine and shake. Add ice to a cocktail shaker before adding all of the ingredients except the garnish. Shake vigorously until completely combined. 
2. Pour. Hold the strainer in the shaker while pouring the drink over ice in a rocks glass. 
3. Garnish and serve. Shake on some ground cinnamon or place a grapefruit slice on the rim for garnish. Serve immediately.

More Holiday Cocktails and Drinks

There’s nothing like snuggling up with a cocktail on a cold winter night. Here are some of our favorites.