Greyhound Cocktail: A Simple, Refreshing Citrus Classic

The Greyhound is an easy-to-make, refreshing cocktail that combines the tangy brightness of grapefruit juice with the smooth, subtle bite of gin or vodka. Known for its simplicity and bold citrus flavor, the Greyhound is a versatile cocktail that’s perfect for brunches, outdoor gatherings, or any time you’re in the mood for a light and zesty drink. Its balance of tartness and smoothness makes it a favorite for those who enjoy fruit-forward cocktails with a bit of a kick.

This classic cocktail has a long history and remains popular for its crisp, refreshing nature. Whether you prefer gin or vodka as the base, the Greyhound delivers a delicious combination of zesty grapefruit and a smooth spirit that’s easy to sip and enjoy.

Quick Facts: Greyhound Cocktail

Method: Built in the glass
Flavor profile: Tart, refreshing, light
How to serve it: Over ice
Glassware: Highball glass
Alcohol content: ~ 10-15% ABV, depending on the spirit-to-juice ratio

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Ingredients

The Greyhound requires just a few ingredients, but their quality is key to creating a refreshing, citrus-forward cocktail. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 oz Gin or Vodka (Choose a high-quality gin with citrus or floral notes, like Bombay Sapphire or Tanqueray, or a smooth vodka like Ketel One or Tito’s)
• 4 oz Fresh grapefruit juice (Freshly squeezed for the best flavor; ruby red grapefruit adds sweetness, while white grapefruit offers more tartness)
• Ice (For chilling the drink)
• Optional garnish: Grapefruit wedge, lemon twist, or a sprig of rosemary

Ingredient Notes:
For the freshest and brightest flavor, use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice. Store-bought juice can work, but fresh juice adds a natural sweetness and depth. You can use either gin or vodka as the base spirit—vodka offers a clean, neutral backdrop, while gin introduces more complex botanical notes that complement the citrus. Ruby red grapefruit is sweeter and more vibrant, while white grapefruit has a sharper, more tart taste.

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Equipment Needed

The Greyhound is simple and doesn’t require much in terms of tools, but having the right equipment can enhance your experience:

• Highball glass: The tall shape allows the flavors to mix while keeping the drink chilled with plenty of ice.
• Jigger: For measuring the exact amount of gin or vodka and grapefruit juice.
• Citrus press or reamer: For juicing fresh grapefruit.
• Bar spoon: For stirring the drink gently.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Making a Greyhound is quick and easy, perfect for when you want a refreshing drink without much effort. Here’s how to make it:

1. Prepare the glass: Chill your highball glass by placing it in the freezer for a few minutes or filling it with ice water while you gather your ingredients.
2. Fill with ice: Once your glass is chilled, fill it with ice cubes. Larger ice cubes will melt more slowly, keeping the drink cold without diluting it too quickly.
3. Add the gin or vodka: Measure out 2 oz of your preferred spirit (gin or vodka) and pour it over the ice.
4. Top with grapefruit juice: Add 4 oz of fresh grapefruit juice, filling the glass almost to the top.
5. Stir gently: Using a bar spoon, stir the drink gently to combine the gin or vodka with the grapefruit juice without over-diluting the cocktail.
6. Garnish and serve: Garnish with a wedge of grapefruit, a lemon twist, or even a sprig of rosemary for an herbal note. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Greyhound!

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Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes

The Greyhound is a cocktail that delivers a bright, zesty burst of citrus flavor, perfectly balanced by the smoothness of gin or vodka. The fresh grapefruit juice provides a tart, slightly sweet flavor, which is the star of the drink, while the spirit adds a subtle kick.

If using gin, you’ll notice the botanicals add a layer of complexity, with hints of juniper and herbs playing off the citrus notes of the grapefruit. Vodka, on the other hand, creates a cleaner, smoother flavor, letting the grapefruit take center stage. Either way, the result is a light, refreshing cocktail that’s easy to drink and perfect for warm weather or casual sipping.

The acidity of the grapefruit juice keeps the cocktail crisp and invigorating, with a slightly bitter aftertaste that lingers, especially if using white grapefruit juice. For a slightly sweeter version, use ruby red grapefruit.

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Garnishing and Presentation

A Greyhound is visually simple but can be elevated with the right garnish. The classic garnish is a wedge of grapefruit, which mirrors the primary flavor of the drink and adds a pop of color. For a bit of extra flair, you can also add a twist of lemon peel or a sprig of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, which adds an aromatic, herbaceous touch.

Serving the cocktail in a tall highball glass allows the drink to stay cool and refreshing for longer, and the ice enhances the visual appeal as the grapefruit juice settles in with the spirit. For an extra touch, consider using large, slow-melting ice cubes or even freezing fresh grapefruit slices into the ice for a stunning presentation.

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Pairing Suggestions

The Greyhound is a light, citrus-forward cocktail, making it a great companion for equally fresh, bright dishes. Here are some pairing suggestions to enhance your Greyhound experience:

• Seafood: The bright acidity of grapefruit pairs beautifully with fresh seafood dishes like shrimp cocktail, oysters, or grilled fish. The citrus in the cocktail enhances the natural sweetness and briny flavors of seafood.
• Salads: A light salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette mirrors the tart and fresh qualities of the Greyhound, making for a harmonious pairing.
• Cheese boards: A selection of soft, creamy cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta works well with the zesty flavors of the cocktail. Add fresh fruit like grapes or berries to complete the spread.
• Brunch fare: The Greyhound is a fantastic brunch cocktail, pairing perfectly with dishes like eggs Benedict, avocado toast, or smoked salmon bagels. The tartness of the grapefruit cuts through the richness of these dishes, creating a balanced meal.

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Cocktail History and Trivia

The Greyhound has its origins in the 1930s, during a time when simple highball cocktails were becoming increasingly popular. The first written reference to the Greyhound appeared in a 1930s cocktail book called The Savoy Cocktail Book, although it was initially made with gin. It wasn’t until the 1940s, when vodka became more widely available in the U.S., that the vodka variation gained popularity.

The name “Greyhound” is believed to have originated from the Greyhound bus company, which served this cocktail in their restaurant chain, reinforcing its reputation as an easy-going, no-fuss drink that’s perfect for travel and relaxation.

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Serving Suggestions

The Greyhound is a versatile cocktail that works well in many settings, from brunches to casual summer parties. It’s easy to make in batches, making it a great choice for larger gatherings. Simply mix the gin or vodka and fresh grapefruit juice in a pitcher, and let guests serve themselves over ice. Pre-squeeze your grapefruit juice to ensure everything stays fresh, and keep the juice and spirits chilled in the fridge before mixing.

For a twist, you can turn your Greyhound into a Salty Dog by rimming the glass with salt before pouring in the drink. The salt adds a savory note that complements the tartness of the grapefruit juice, creating a more complex flavor profile.

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Alcohol Content and Alternatives

With an ABV of around 10-15%, the Greyhound is a light to moderately strong cocktail, depending on the ratio of gin or vodka to grapefruit juice. The ice helps to dilute the drink slightly, making it crisp and easy to sip.

For a lighter version, reduce the amount of gin or vodka and increase the grapefruit juice. Alternatively, you can top the drink with a splash of soda water for a spritz-like version that’s even more refreshing. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, simply replace the gin or vodka with a botanical alcohol-free spirit, allowing you to enjoy the cocktail’s citrusy brightness without the alcohol.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use bottled grapefruit juice?
While fresh grapefruit juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled juice can be used if fresh isn’t available. Look for juice without added sugar or preservatives to keep the drink’s balance intact.

What’s the difference between a Greyhound and a Salty Dog?
A Salty Dog is simply a Greyhound with a salted rim. The salt adds a savory, slightly briny flavor that contrasts with the tartness of the grapefruit juice.

Can I use gin instead of vodka?
Yes! The classic Greyhound was originally made with gin, and many people prefer it with gin because the botanicals complement the grapefruit juice beautifully.

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Conclusion

The Greyhound is a simple yet delicious cocktail that highlights the bright, tart flavor of fresh grapefruit juice, paired with either gin’s botanical complexity or vodka’s smoothness. Whether you enjoy it as a refreshing brunch drink or a light evening cocktail, the Greyhound is a timeless option that’s easy to make and even easier to sip. Experiment with garnishes and variations like the Salty Dog to make this classic cocktail your own.