The Greyhound: The Best (and Easiest) Grapefruit Cocktail

At Twisted Alchemy, we know that simplicity is often key. That is why we ensure our line of cold pressed, 100% pure juices can stand alone in their deliciousness. Because of this, we love simple cocktails that allow these juices to really shine. One of our favorites has to be the Greyhound, a beloved classic cocktail that combines grapefruit juice and either vodka or gin. With an ingredient list this short, it is essential to use the absolute best juices around- good thing our 100% Marsh Grapefruit Cold-Pressed Juice is up to the task.

General consensus finds the Greyhound’s first appearance in the world of cocktailing in Harry Craddock’s 1930 cocktail bible printed for the legendary Savoy hotel in London. Though often served with vodka today, Craddock’s original specs required gin instead. This is likely due to gin’s long history as the favorite spirit in England, a status that vodka would not enjoy in Western Europe or the States for a few more decades. Surprisingly, the grapefruit element of the Greyhound cocktail may have a shorter history than the spirit component. Grapefruits were bred from sweet oranges and pomelos in the late 1700s, and gained popularity in cooking and drinking around the early 20th century. In 1930, Craddock combined two ounces of gin with four ounces of grapefruit juice in a highball glass and the legendary cocktail was born.

The cocktail was named after the greyhound dog, which was known for its speed and agility. The Greyhound cocktail was a popular choice among American soldiers during World War II, who favored gin, and it became even more popular during the post-war years as grapefruit juice became more widely available and popular.

Though we would never recommend messing with a good thing, there have been countless variations on the greyhound cocktail over the years that have become classics in their own right. The original gin greyhound is often served as a Salty Dog today, which adds a salted rim for an extra compliment to the tartness of the grapefruit juice. Want to make your own at home? We recommend Twisted Alchemy’s Habanero Salt Rimmer for an extra kick. Other variations include the Ruby Red Greyhound, which uses a the red-fleshed Ruby Red grapefruit to provide a sweeter taste than the tart flavor provided by a Marsh grapefruit.

Though its history is contended, many cite the Paloma as taking direct influence from the Greyhound. The Paloma originated in Mexico, and combines grapefruit soda, tequila, and lime juice. The Hemingway Daiquiri has a similarly foggy history (much like the author himself) and includes grapefruit juice, lime juice, maraschino liqueur, and white rum for a sweeter and punchier cocktail.

The one thing required for all of these delicious cocktails? The freshest, purest grapefruit juice around. Good thing we’ve got you covered.