Rosemary Greyhound Batch Cocktail (16 Servings)

Fall is just around the corner, and what better a way to enjoy the last rays of summer sunshine than by sipping a fresh cocktail on the patio with friends via Zoom or in person? Go ahead and make that a fresh cocktail that is full of fresh herbs from your cocktail gardens end of summer harvest.

Batch cocktails are a great way to keep yourself engaged with your guests as opposed to being stuck behind the bar; you can make one batch that’ll last you a whole weekend and then some. This Rosemary Greyhound Batch Cocktail is the perfect way to make a toast to Labor Day weekend. 

Rosemary has a fresh, peppery flavor that will surely wake up your taste buds. A traditional Greyhound cocktail uses fresh grapefruit juice and vodka. By adding in your fresh rosemary simple syrup, you are creating a unique and memorable flavor pairing that you simply won’t get enough of.

Get Creative

We love this cocktail because it is versatile. You can enjoy this cocktail in the sunshine with a splash of refreshing Topo Chico, or enjoy it on the rocks as you gather around the campfire at the end of the night. The Rosemary Greyhound is truly a great beverage for any time of the day!

You can easily tailor this beverage to suit the preferences of you and your guests; make a more traditional-style Greyhound by using vodka, or mix it up by exchanging the vodka for gin. Gin pairs deliciously with fresh grapefruit juice. It’s a win-win situation. If you want to get really fancy, you can use a grapefruit-flavored vodka in addition to the grapefruit juice.

Additional Options

You can also tailor this lovely cocktail by adding fresh lime juice in addition to the fresh grapefruit juice. If you decide to add more citrus to your creation, we also recommend adding in a splash of seltzer water for extra refreshment.

Another way to mix up this fun beverage is to add salt to the rim of your glasses. This modification is the finishing touch to a classic cocktail, formally known as the Salty Dog. If you want to bring out a bit of sweetness in your drink, the salted rim is a great option for you and your guests.

Complementary Foods

We love that this cocktail tastes great with just about anything; in this way, it truly is the perfect addition to your labor day festivities. 

A classic charcuterie board is a simple, well-loved, and delicious finger food for your guests. Pair it with your Rosemary Greyhound Cocktail, and you’re good to go. For inspiration, take a look at this charcuterie spread that was put together by Bowl of Delicious.

The Rosemary Greyhound is also a great cocktail to pair with your dessert spread. The bitterness of the fresh grapefruit works wonders with highlighting the sweetness of your dessert. To learn more about what flavors go well with grapefruit, check out this article by Fine Cooking.

How To

1. First, make the Rosemary Simple Syrup. Heat the water and sugar together with 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, and heat until the sugar dissolves. Allow to steep for 25 minutes.
2. Combine the rosemary simple syrup, vodka and grapefruit juice in a pitcher, stir and chill.
3. When you are ready to serve pour into a glass filled with crushed ice and garnish

Fun Tips

If you are looking for some fizz in your cocktail, add in a splash of seltzer water!

If you’re slinging drinks for the kiddos this weekend, you can skip the vodka or gin and just go for the juice and simple syrup. For a little extra sweetness, add in Sprite instead of seltzer. This modification creates a delicious, kid-friendly mocktail.

You can also rim the glass with salt and chili powder for some added flair; this is perfect for the people who crave a little bit of extra spice.

When you’re storing your batch, make sure to put it in a covered container before placing it in the fridge. Be sure to keep it chilled before serving. If you want your drinks to be served extra cold, chill your glasses before serving, too.

Enjoy!

Make sure you take some time to celebrate and enjoy this weekend! While you’re stirring up this delicious cocktail, take a look at the other refreshing beverages you can make with your fresh rosemary harvest – like this rosemary martini!