This Sparkling Pink Greyhound Cocktail rolls happy hour right into summer. A light, slightly tart drink, similar to the classic greyhound, but with an effervescent Prosecco twist. Vodka, in place of gin, rubs elbows with red ruby grapefruit juice and fresh mint for a refreshing sipper to beat the summer heat.
I'm a girl who loves her happy hour. It's usually a glass of chardonnay or pinot noir but, when summer rolls around, I like my cocktails a little lighter with a tropical edge.
This grapefruit mint cocktail reminds me of my favorite Sea Breeze but with a minty twist. I've always loved mint but it was hard to grow in South Florida. However, since moving to Georgia, I've found that mint grows like a weed.
I can't believe how much keeps popping up all over the yard. Soooo, you'll probably be seeing a lot of mint goodies in the coming months.
If you're familiar with the greyhound cocktail you were probably expecting a gin drink, but I've opted for a vodka version as its taste is more to my liking. You can still add gin if you prefer or try some of the variations listed below.
I loved adding the red grapefruit juice as it added such a beautiful color to the mix. Doesn't it just look like summer? Plus the flavor combined with mint's herbalness was out of this world!
By the way, if you like your drinks a little sweeter you can add a little agave, although I didn't think it needed it.
And, last but not least, the effervescence of Prosecco makes this sparkling pink greyhound cocktail the ideal summer refresher - cool, light and bubbly.
Variations
- Make a more traditional greyhound by substituting gin for vodka.
- Change out Prosecco with sparkling water or club soda.
- Opt for champagne in lieu of Prosecco.
- Want a little pinker cocktail? Add a touch of cranberry juice.
Directions
- Place torn mint leaves in a cocktail shaker. I tried whole leaves and muddling but the torn ones delivered more of a minty taste. If you like the taste of fresh mint, I added more leaves to my second batch and my husband thought it was even better! (photo 1)
- Add grapefruit juice (about 2-3 jiggers) and muddle well. Crushing the mint releases more of the mint oil for the extra flavor for the cocktail. (photo 2)
- If you like a slightly sweeter drink, add a little squirt of agave. I found that the agave wasn't necessary as the tartness combined with the herbal flavor was the perfect match. However, feel free to add if you like your cocktails sweeter. Start with ½ teaspoon and go from there. (photo 3)
- Pour in vodka (a little over 1 jigger) and give the cocktail a good shake. (photo 4)
- Strain into a high ball glass filled with ice. (photo 5)
- Top with Prosecco then garnish with a grapefruit slice and a sprig of mint. I think the Prosecco is a better match for this drink than champagne but feel free to use the latter if you prefer. (photo 6)
Think summer BBQs, pool parties and holiday get-togethers. Hope you enjoy. Cheers!
More refreshing cocktail recipes
Sparkling Citrus Margarita - This is not your standard margarita! This baby adds a little heat to the lime and orange mix and loads of bubbles. It’s a little bit tart and a little bit sweet with a kick from jalapeno slices.
Summer Breeze - This cocktail was made for summer! Fresh cucumbers, lime, cilantro, mint and vodka complete with a Prosecco topper brings refreshing taste to a warm day.
Sparkling Mango Mojito - A fruity take on the classic mojito with the sweet addition of mango juice & a bit of effervescence from sparkling water.
Grapefruit Tequila Cocktail - Made with fresh grapefruit juice and lemon-lime soda for a refreshing sparkling drink.
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Recipe
Sparkling Pink Greyhound Cocktail
Ingredients
- 6-8 mint leaves
- 4 oz red grapefruit juice
- Touch of agave optional
- 2 oz vodka
- Prosecco
Instructions
- Place torn mint leaves in a cocktail shaker.
- Add grapefruit juice and muddle well.
- If you like a slightly sweeter drink, add a little squirt of agave.
- Pour in vodka and give the cocktail a good shake.
- Strain into a high ball glass filled with ice.
- Top with prosecco then garnish with a grapefruit slice and a sprig of mint.
Notes
Variations
- Make a more traditional greyhound by substituting gin for vodka.
- Change out Prosecco with sparkling water or club soda.
- Opt for champagne in lieu of Prosecco.
- Want a little pinker cocktail? Add a touch of cranberry juice.
Nutrition
This post has been updated and was first published on August 1, 2018.
Marcel says
I'm not a cocktail person myself, but this one looks great and I would give it a try. Maybe with a little less vodka for me 🙂
Sam says
Wow this drink look so refreshing! Such a fun drink for summer! I don't drink but I have a few friends I will have to share this with.