Sea Breeze cocktail
The Sea Breeze is a popular cocktail and part of our collection of vodka and fruit juice drinks. It requires just three ingredients — vodka, cranberry, and grapefruit juice. This refreshingly fruity drink is usually consumed during summer months.
The first cocktail recipe called Sea Breeze appeared in the United States in the 1920s at the end of Prohibition era. Interestingly, it was a completely different drink that consisted of gin and grenadine syrup (because vodka was unpopular with Americans).
The name of the cocktail was given by a journalist who tasted the drink in a closed New York club. Due to the ban on alcohol, he could not describe the recipe openly, instead saying "a cocktail that makes you feel the wind at the seashore.".
Since then Sea Breeze has undergone few minor changes and is regarded as a modern classic cocktail.
- Total Time:
- Type: Cocktail
- Units: 2
Equipment
- Highball glass
Ingredients
- 100 ml cranberry juice (freshly squeezed)
- 50 ml vodka
- 50 ml grapefruit juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 slice lime (to garnish)
Instructions
- Mix the vodka, cranberry juice and grapefruit juice in a highball glass with ice and stir.
- Garnish with a slice of lime. Enjoy!
FAQ
What vodka cocktails are best?
If you like a cocktail with vodka in, we also have a roundup of our top ten cocktails with vodka, its not official, but we think you’ll find these cocktails are all worth trying.
Is it the same as a Bay Breeze?
No. A Bay Breeze uses pineapple juice instead of grapefruit juice.
What kind of vodka works best?
Any neutral vodka will do, but a premium vodka makes for a smoother drink.
Can I use fresh juices?
Yes – fresh grapefruit and cranberry juices elevate the flavour and reduce sweetness.
Is it a strong cocktail?
Not particularly. It’s light and refreshing, with the vodka diluted by juice.
When is it usually served?
It’s popular in summer due to its fruity and tart profile, often served at brunch or beach gatherings.