Rosemary Grapefruit Spritzer
A vibrant, refreshing non-alcoholic spritzer that pairs the bright acidity of fresh grapefruit with aromatic rosemary and effervescent sparkling water for a sophisticated yet simple beverage that dazzles the senses.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh grapefruit juice about 3-4 medium grapefruits
- 3-4 sprigs fresh rosemary plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup adjust to taste
- 4 cups sparkling water or club soda
- Ice cubes
- Grapefruit slices for garnish
- Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice to brighten flavors
Instructions
- Juice the grapefruits by cutting them in half and using a citrus juicer to extract the juice. Strain to remove pulp and seeds if desired.
- Make rosemary simple syrup by combining 1/2 cup water, honey or agave, and 2 sprigs of rosemary in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until sweetener dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let steep for 20-30 minutes.
- Remove the rosemary sprigs from the syrup and strain if necessary. Allow the syrup to cool completely.
- Combine the grapefruit juice and rosemary syrup in a large pitcher, adding the optional lemon juice if using. Stir well to incorporate all flavors.
- Add ice to serving glasses, filling them about halfway.
- Pour the grapefruit-rosemary mixture over the ice, filling glasses about 1/3 of the way.
- Top with sparkling water, gently stirring once to combine without losing too much carbonation.
- Garnish each glass with a fresh rosemary sprig and a slice of grapefruit on the rim.
Notes
- For a stronger rosemary flavor, bruise the herb by gently crushing it with a wooden spoon before adding to the syrup.
- This mixture (without the sparkling water) can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Pink or ruby red grapefruits will give you a naturally prettier color, but white grapefruit works just as well for flavor.
- For a special occasion, freeze grapefruit juice with small rosemary sprigs into ice cubes for a beautiful presentation that won’t dilute your drink.
- To make this an alcoholic spritzer, add 1 oz of gin, vodka, or white rum per serving before topping with sparkling water.