Grapefruit Martini Recipe - Plating Pixels (2024)

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Published: August 20, 2020

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Wheatley Vodka – Craft Vodka co*cktails. All opinions are 100% mine.

Enjoy a refreshing summer co*cktail with this easy Grapefruit Martini. Vodka, orange liquor, fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice, and simple syrup mix together into a classy co*cktail that will elevate any summer gathering. You may be familiar with the classic Lemon Drop Martini. It’s a simple co*cktail with sweet citrus flavors that’s a refreshing and vibrant addition to any summer event.

This Grapefruit Martini is a twist, pun intended, on this classic co*cktail. There’s something about martinis that elevates any occasion.

A few ingredients, some ice, and a co*cktail shaker can mix together into an endless variety of unique creations.

One of my favorite places to visit in downtown Salt Lake City is a martini bar with a wide variety of classic, unique, and over the top drinks. Surprisingly a grapefruit martini isn’t on the menu.

Luckily it’s easy to make at home. All you need is a few ingredients

Grapefruit Martini Ingredients:

• Vodka
• Triple sec or orange liquor
• Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
• Simple syrup

Use fresh grapefruit for the best flavor. The orange liquor and simple syrup offset the slightly bitter and tart flavors of grapefruit.

What Alcohol to Use in a Martini

Almost any alcohol can be used to make a variety of martinis. The most common is vodka, which is used in this recipe.

It’s important to pair your co*cktails with quality alcohol for the best, most smooth flavor. Wheatley Vodka is a craft vodka that elevates any co*cktail. It is 10-times distilled and triple-filtered for superior smoothness.

Wheatley Vodka is crafted in small batches in copper micro-stills and made from the same red winter wheat grain used in bourbon by Buffalo Trace Distillery’s master distiller Harlen Wheatley. Typically, high-quality vodkas should be odorless and tasteless, but Wheatley Vodka is crafted to have a distinct taste with undertones of vanilla.

This means it’s great for sipping on its own or making high-quality co*cktails where alcohol is the main ingredient.

Wheatley Vodka – Award-Winning Craft Vodka is available in most places where you buy spirits and online.

Tips for Making a Grapefruit Martini

Use fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice:

Fresh grapefruit will add the best flavor. An added bonus is you can use it as a colorful garnish as well. In a pinch, you could substitute with bottled juice.

Chill the martini glasses ahead of time:

The easiest way to do this is to store the glasses in the freezer or add the freezer at least 30 minutes before making a martini.

In a pinch, you can add ice and water to the glass, stir it around and let it sit while making your co*cktail. Pour the water out just before adding your drink.

Adjust the strongness of flavor:

For a stronger drink, store the alcohol in the freezer. This will reduce the amount of ice that is melted into the drink while mixing.

I prefer martinis on the lighter side, and add the vodka at room temp to melt some of the ice.

Shake (or stir) a lot to chill the drink well:

It’s best to use a co*cktail shaker to make this martini. Shake vigorously for at least 30 seconds, or until frost forms on the outside of the shaker. This will create tiny ice particles in the drink and adds a lovely texture.

Use more or less simple syrup to adjust sweetness:

Simple syrup is used to balance the flavors of grapefruit. You can vary between ½ to 1 ounce of simple syrup per martini, or omit altogether.

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Wheatley Vodka – Craft Vodka co*cktails