This fresh cocktail blends tart grapefruit juice with sweet elderflower liqueur, topped off with sparkling water. I use a few simple tools and fresh ingredients to create a bright, fizzy drink with balanced flavor.
Strain into an ice-filled highball or Collins glass.
Top with club soda or sparkling water.
Gently stir to mix without losing fizz.
Garnish with a slice of grapefruit and, if desired, a sprig of mint or edible flowers.
I always chill the glass if possible, as it keeps the drink colder longer.
Notes
I adjust the sweetness by using more or less simple syrup, depending on how tart the grapefruit is. Some grapefruits are quite sour, so extra sweetness may be needed.If I want a lighter drink, I skip the vodka. The cocktail is still flavorful.For a big batch, I mix everything except the club soda in a pitcher, then top off each serving with fizz just before serving.I also sometimes swap club soda for flavored sparkling water, like lemon or lime, for a twist. The garnish adds aroma and a nice touch, but it’s optional.Using quality elderflower liqueur makes the biggest difference in taste.