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Sparkling Grapefruit Cocktail

A refreshing cocktail that combines the bitter-sweet tang of grapefruit with the fizz of sparkling wine. Perfect for any occasion!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Beverage, Cocktail
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cocktail
  • 1 large large ruby red or pink grapefruit Look for ripe ones for that lovely sweetness!
  • 1/4 cup sugar For just the right touch of sweetness
  • 2 ounces gin Preferably Hendricks for that herbal touch
  • 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice For a zesty kick
  • 1 sprig tarragon The secret herb that brings it all together
  • 2 ounces French sparkling wine Like Cremant de Bourgogne, for the bubbles
  • 1 slice ruby red or pink grapefruit For garnish

Method
 

Preparation of Syrup
  1. Zest the grapefruit with a vegetable peeler to get some wide strips while leaving behind most of the white pith.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and 1/4 cup of water. Bring to a gentle boil, swirling until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Remove from heat, add grapefruit zest, pressing it down to submerge, and let it sit for 30 minutes.
  4. Strain the sweet syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a measuring cup.
Mixing the Cocktail
  1. In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 ounces of gin, fresh lemon juice, tarragon, and 1/2 ounce of grapefruit syrup.
  2. Fill the shaker with ice, secure the lid, and shake vigorously until super cold (about 20 seconds).
  3. Fill an old-fashioned or rocks glass with ice and strain the mixed cocktail into the glass.
  4. Top off with a splash of sparkling wine and garnish with a grapefruit wedge.

Notes

The syrup can be made a week ahead and stored in the fridge. Use caution with grapefruit zest to avoid bitterness from the pith. Adding a splash of elderflower liqueur is a creative twist.