Looking for a refreshing and classic drink to enjoy any season or occasion? Check out this easy recipe for the Greyhound cocktail!
Although it’s become trendy in recent years to mix together a slew of unique ingredients to create cocktails, there’s something to be said for the classics. The Greyhound is one such classic drink, and it’s easy to make at home.
All you need is vodka, grapefruit juice, and a wedge of lime. Stir everything together over ice and enjoy! This refreshing cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day, for holiday brunch, and everything in between!
There’s nothing quite like a crisp, refreshing cocktail on a hot summer day. This classic greyhound cocktail recipe is perfect for those times when you want something light and refreshing. It’s easy to make and always enjoyable.
So if you’re looking for something new to add to your cocktail repertoire, give this classic drink a try!
Why You will LOVE This Classic Cocktail
- Easy to Make
- So incredibly refreshing
- Perfect for summer entertaining
- Equally good for brunch
- Just 2 simple ingredients
What is a Greyhound Cocktail?
A Greyhound cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that combines gin or vodka with grapefruit juice. It’s a great choice for any occasion, from brunch to happy hour.
The first printed version of this classic cocktail recipe appeared in The Savoy Cocktail Book, published in 1930. It’s thought to have been created by Harry Craddock, the famed British bartender who was behind the bar at London’s famous Savoy Hotel.
Gin was the most popular choice for this drink, but vodka became increasingly popular in the United States. This classic cocktail was a popular choice at Greyhound bus terminals in the mid-20th century, hence its name.
How Strong Is the Greyhound?
This cocktail is on the weaker side, since it’s made with just two ingredients. The average Greyhound has an alcohol content of around 15 percent ABV (30 proof).
However, the strength of your drink will depend on the type and proof of alcohol you use. If you’re using a higher-proof gin or vodka, your drink will be stronger.
You can also make a Greyhound with just one ounce of alcohol, which would lower the ABV to around 7.5 percent (15 proof).
This recipe is intended only for responsible adults of legal drinking age. It is purely intended for entertainment purposes.
Please enjoy this drink responsibly and with moderation.
Variations on the Greyhound Cocktail
There are a few different ways you can mix up this classic cocktail.
- Salty dog – Add a pinch of salt to the rim of the glass.
- Sea breeze – Add a little cranberry juice.
- Gin fizz – Add club soda or seltzer water for a refreshing twist.
- Italian Greyhound – Add a little Campari, or Aperol.
- Dalmation – Add black pepper simple syrup.
Tips for Making the BEST Greyhound Cocktail
- Chill your glasses ahead of time to help ensure the cocktail remains cool to the very last sip.
- Choose premium liquors for the best results. You don’t need to reach for the top shelf but at least avoid scraping the bottom of the barrel.
- Fresh squeezed juice goes a long way with cocktails.
- To make sure your cocktail is properly chilled, consider using larger ice cubes. They melt slower and won’t water down your drink as quickly.
About the Ingredients for a Greyhound Cocktail
Alcohol – Gin is more traditional in a greyhound, but vodka works really well too! Avoid using flavoured vodka’s, we want the grapefruit flavour to shine!
Juice – Use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice for best results. If you like a little sweet with your tang, you can add some with a little simple syrup to taste. Store bought juice works too, and you can skip the simple syrup as it is already sweetened.
Garnish – Citrus twist, wheels or wedges work well. I like to use lime wheels personally, but grapefruit or lemons are also quite good.
Looking for More Cocktail Recipes?
Check out more of my favourite drink recipes!
Make this refreshing 5 ingredient Chili’s Frozen Strawberry Margarita Recipe in a blender in under 5 minutes. Serve it all summer long!
Berry Peach Sangria is a refreshing summer drink features rich combination of fresh fruits, juice and wine. A splash of sparkling water right before serving helps balance the sweetness.
A bright splash of cranberry transforms the classic cocktail into a new holiday favourite with this Cranberry Moscow Mule.
How to Make a Greyhound Cocktail
Yields: 1 Serving | Prep time: 5 Minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Vodka or Gin
- 4 oz Grapefruit juice
- Citrus wheels
Directions:
Fill a glass with ice, then add the vodka or gin and grapefruit juice, stirring gently to combine.
Garnish with a citrus wheel if desired.
Greyhound Cocktail Recipe
Looking for a refreshing and classic drink to enjoy any season or occasion? Check out this easy recipe for the Greyhound cocktail!
Ingredients
- 2 oz Vodka or Gin
- 4 oz Grapefruit juice
- Citrus wheels
Instructions
Fill a glass with ice, then add the vodka or gin and grapefruit juice, stirring gently to combine.
Garnish with a citrus wheel if desired.
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Liz Lampman is a coffee-fuelled Mom of 2 girls and lives in Hamilton, Ontario. She enjoys cooking and baking, food photography, and reading.