Rosemary Grapefruit Sparkler
A refreshing beverage that combines the tangy taste of fresh grapefruit juice with aromatic rosemary-infused syrup and sparkling water. This sophisticated drink offers a perfect balance of citrus and herbal notes, making it ideal for both casual enjoyment and special occasions. Available in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions.
Equipment
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Heatproof container
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tall glasses or wine glasses
- Long spoon for stirring
- Knife for cutting grapefruit
Ingredients
- ¼ cup fresh rosemary leaves loosely packed, coarsely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried rosemary)
- ½ cup water boiling
- 1 tablespoon honey or to taste
- 1 cup pink grapefruit juice freshly squeezed (about 2 medium grapefruits)
- 8 ounces sparkling water chilled
- Ice cubes for serving
- 4 rosemary sprigs for garnish
- 4 grapefruit slices thin, for garnish
- 6 ounces vodka, gin, or white rum optional, for alcoholic version (1.5 oz per serving)
Instructions
- For the rosemary syrup: Place the rosemary leaves in a heatproof container. Pour boiling water over the leaves, cover, and let steep for 15-20 minutes.
- Strain the rosemary-infused water into a clean container, discarding the leaves.
- While the infusion is still warm, stir in the honey until completely dissolved. Allow the syrup to cool completely.
- For the grapefruit juice: Cut grapefruits in half and juice them using a citrus juicer or reamer.
- Strain the freshly squeezed juice through a fine-mesh sieve to remove pulp and seeds.
- To assemble the non-alcoholic sparkler: Fill tall glasses with ice cubes.
- For each glass, add 2 tablespoons of rosemary syrup and 1/4 cup of grapefruit juice.
- Top with 2 ounces of sparkling water and gently stir with a long spoon to combine.
- For the alcoholic version: Add 1.5 ounces of vodka, gin, or white rum to each glass before adding the sparkling water.
- Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh rosemary and a thin slice of grapefruit on the rim.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the best taste and effervescence.
Notes
For a sweeter drink, increase the amount of honey in the rosemary syrup.
The rosemary syrup can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
For a wine-based alcoholic version, replace the sparkling water with sparkling wine, prosecco, or champagne.
For a low-sugar version, use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of honey.
To add complexity, consider adding a splash of cranberry or pomegranate juice.
For a kid-friendly version, reduce the rosemary intensity and add a touch more sweetener.
Pink or ruby red grapefruits are preferred for their sweeter flavor profile and beautiful color.
To maximize juice extraction from grapefruits, roll them on the counter with pressure or microwave for 10-15 seconds before juicing.
Nutrition
Calories: 85kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 1gSodium: 10mgPotassium: 175mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 1mg
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