Texas grapefruits might not be in season right now, but that’s okay if you’re looking to put them in cocktails. A couple of vodka brands, including Austin’s Deep Eddy Vodka, make grapefruit-flavored vodkas that can stand in for the fruit until October, when they’ll return widespread in stores.
SKYY Infusions is the latest to incorporate grapefruit into the clear spirit, sourcing the juicy red fruit from the state where it’s at its finest and most flavorful: Texas.
The SKYY Infusions Texas Grapefruit is a vibrant, versatile drink — enjoyed simply on the rocks with club soda or in more complex cocktails ranging from sweet to savory. The cocktail below adds a smoky element that plays nicely with the non-peated Scotch and the bold citrus vodka. (Note that because of the smoked ice ball, the flavor of the drink will change as you sip and the ice melts.)
Gimme the Peat
2 oz. SKYY Infusions Texas Grapefruit
1 oz. Glen Grant Single Malt Scotch
1 tbsp. Simple Syrup
Liquid smoke ice ball (see below)
Combine SKYY Infusions Texas Grapefruit, Glen Grant Single Malt and simple syrup in a double rocks glass.
Place smoked ice ball in glass and stir 5 times. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge.
Smoked Ice Ball
Use an ice ball mold to produce a large round ice sphere. Before placing in freezer, drop approximately 5 drops of liquid smoke into the water used. Freeze. Remember to use sparingly as liquid smoke is potent.
— Adapted from Sheridan Fay
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