Easy Grapefruit Spritz Recipe: How to Make this Refreshing Cocktail

grapefruit spritz
Are you looking for a refreshing and citrusy drink to enjoy on a warm summer day? Look no further than the grapefruit spritz! This simple and delicious cocktail is perfect for sipping on the patio or serving at your next brunch.

Last weekend, I was in San Diego at the Hotel del Coronado. For dinner the first night, we walked down the main street to this cute little French restaurant. They had outside dining, it was a gorgeous night, so I ordered a cocktail. They had a grapefruit spritz on the menu. I love grapefruit, or any tart fruit drinks, so I thought I’d give it a try. It was so refreshing and delicious that I asked the bar tender for the recipe.

The first recipe I’m sharing below is based on the drink I had in San Diego. I can’t say for sure that the measurements are the same, but it’s definitely close. I even found a dried grapefruit round like they served with my drink. If you prefer fresh grapefruit, that is also a good option. To make a grapefruit spritz, you will need a few key ingredients: grapefruit juice, sparkling wine or champage, and Lillet Rose. 

grapefruit spritz 2

What is Lillet Rosé?

Lillet is a French aperitif wine that has a light and fruity flavor, making it the perfect addition to this cocktail. Lillet Rosé is a French aperitif wine that is similar to Lillet Blanc and Lillet Rouge but with a pink hue and a slightly sweeter taste. It is made from a blend of wines from Bordeaux, primarily Semillon and Sauvignon blanc, and is infused with fruit liqueurs made from sweet and bitter oranges and berries. Lillet Rosé is aged in oak barrels for several months, which imparts a subtle vanilla flavor to the wine.

Lillet Rosé was first introduced in 2011 and has become a popular ingredient in cocktails due to its refreshing taste and vibrant color. It is often used as a substitute for other aperitifs, such as vermouth, in classic cocktails like the Negroni or the Manhattan.  People usually serve it over ice with a splash of soda water and a slice of citrus as a simple and elegant aperitif.

It is best to serve Lillet Rosé chilled and is a great option for those who prefer sweeter drinks or are looking for a lighter alternative to red wine. It pairs well with a variety of foods, including seafood, salads, and cheese.

What is a Spritz?

A spritz is a type of cocktail that originated in northeastern Italy and has become popular around the world. You can make a spritz using sparkling wine, such as Prosecco or Champagne, and mixed with a bitter liqueur, such as Aperol or Campari, and soda water. Often, you will serve a spritz in a wine glass over ice with a slice of citrus, such as orange or grapefruit.

The exact recipe for a spritz or grapefruit spritzer can vary depending on the region and personal preference, but the basic ingredients remain the same. The drink is known for its refreshing taste, low alcohol content, and bubbly effervescence. It is often consumed as an aperitif before a meal, but you can enjoy it at any time of day.


In recent years, the spritz has undergone a revival and has become a popular cocktail worldwide, with many variations and twists on the classic recipe. Some popular variations include the Aperol Spritz, which uses Aperol and Prosecco, and the French Spritz, which uses Lillet Blanc and Champagne.

Overall, the spritz is a light and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a warm summer day or enjoying with friends at a social gathering. There is not one perfect spritz, so I’m going to give you two options. Here are two different recipes you can use to make a grapefruit spritz using Lillet Rosé.

Grapefruit Spritz Recipe

Ingredients:

2 oz Lillet Rosé
3 oz grapefruit juice
2 oz sparkling wine or champagne (I used white, but you can use rose)
optional: simple syrup for added sweetness
optional: Grapefruit slice and rosemary for garnish

Instructions:

Fill a glass with ice. Add all of the ingredients to a shaker and mix gently. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit and rosemary. Serve immediately.

Another Grapefruit Spritz Recipe Option

Ingredients:

1 oz Lillet Rosé
2 oz grapefruit juice
1 oz vodka or gin
2 oz club soda
Grapefruit slice, for garnish

Instructions:

Fill a shaker with ice. Add Lillet Blanc, grapefruit juice, and vodka or gin to a shaker and shake well. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice. Top with club soda. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit and serve immediately.

Both of these recipes are easy to make and you can customize them to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, you can add a splash of simple syrup. For a stronger drink, you can increase the amount of vodka.

The grapefruit spritz is a great alternative to traditional brunch cocktails like mimosas and bloody marys. It is light and refreshing, making it the perfect drink to enjoy with a meal. It is also a great option for entertaining because it is easy to make and can be served in large batches.

In addition to being delicious, the grapefruit spritz also has health benefits. Grapefruit is high in vitamin C, which can boost your immune system and improve your skin health. It is also low in calories, making it a great option for those who are watching their weight.

The grapefruit spritzer is a delicious and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for summer sipping. Whether you are enjoying it on the patio or serving it at your next brunch, this drink is sure to impress your guests. So go ahead and try one of the recipes above, and raise a glass to summer!

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