Sea Breeze
A refreshing 1980s icon and IBA Contemporary Classic, the Sea Breeze is a simple yet revitalizing cooler. Combining the sharpness of fresh grapefruit with the tart sweetness of cranberry and a backbone of vodka, it offers a perfect thirst-quenching balance for warm afternoons.
What it tastes like
The aroma is dominated by tart cranberry and sharp grapefruit citrus. On the palate, the drink is lean and acidic with a clean, dry profile from the vodka. The mouthfeel is light and refreshing, ending with a crisp, slightly bitter finish from the grapefruit pith.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Vodka1.5 oz
- Cranberry Juice4 oz
- Grapefruit Juice1 oz
- Lime1 wedge
Preparation
- 1
Fill a highball glass completely with fresh ice cubes.
- 2
Pour the vodka, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice directly into the glass.
- 3
Stir gently with a bar spoon to combine the ingredients and chill.
- 4
Garnish with a fresh lime wedge on the rim.
Substitutions
- VodkaGin — Gin introduces botanical notes like juniper that add depth to the fruit base.
- Grapefruit JuiceOrange Juice — This creates a sweeter drink with less acidity and a softer citrus profile.
- Cranberry JuicePomegranate Juice — Pomegranate provides a deeper color and a more tannic, earthy tartness.
Variations
Bay Breeze
Replace the grapefruit juice with pineapple juice for a sweeter, tropical profile.
Sparkling Breeze
Top with two ounces of soda water to add carbonation and lighten the texture.