The Sea Breeze, a quintessential drink of the 1980s, embodies lightness and refreshment, ideal for sunny beach days. Comprising vodka, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice, it’s often associated with similar cocktails of its time, such as the Cape Codder and Bay Breeze, due to shared ingredients. However, the Sea Breeze has its own unique history.
While its ’80s popularity is undeniable, the Sea Breeze likely originated in a different form decades earlier. Harry Craddock’s 1930 “The Savoy Cocktail Book” features a recipe for the Sea Breeze Cooler, combining dry gin, apricot brandy, lemon, grenadine, and club soda. This early version may have influenced the modern Sea Breeze, with a shift likely spurred by cranberry marketing.
In the 1960s, Ocean Spray, initially a growers’ collective, promoted cranberry usage in various recipes, including cocktails. Their Sea Breeze recipe marked a significant moment, potentially being the first to introduce cranberry juice to the popular drink.
Today, the original Savoy recipe has faded, replaced by the vodka-based iteration. With its ease of preparation and fresh taste, it remains a favorite. Bottled cranberry juice is commonly used, while fresh grapefruit juice adds citrus richness, enhancing the cocktail’s qualities.
Sea Breeze Cocktail Ingredients
- Vodka (45 ml / 1.5 oz): Acts as the base for the drink, allowing the flavors of the juices to shine through while providing a clean, crisp base.
- Cranberry Juice (90 ml / 3 oz): Offers a nice red color and a tart, slightly sweet flavor that complements the citrus notes of the grapefruit juice.
- Grapefruit Juice, Freshly Squeezed (45 ml / 1.5 oz): Adds a refreshing citrus tang and depth to the cocktail, balancing the sweetness of the cranberry juice with its inherent sharpness.
- Garnish: Lime Wheel: A slice of lime not only enhances the visual appeal of the drink but also adds a fragrant aroma and a hint of citrus zest when squeezed into the cocktail.
Sea Breeze Cocktail Recipe
- Building the Cocktail: Begin by adding the vodka to a highball glass filled with ice cubes, ensuring a chilled base for the mixed juices.
- Adding the Juices: Pour in the cranberry juice followed by the freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, creating layers of flavor that meld together beautifully upon stirring.
- Stirring: Gently stir the mixture to combine the ingredients thoroughly, chilling the cocktail while maintaining its layered complexity.
- Garnishing: Finish by adding a lime wheel to the rim of the glass or floating it atop the drink for a burst of color and an inviting citrus aroma.
Enjoy Your Sea Breeze Cocktail
Whether you’re sipping it at a beachside bar, hosting a coastal-themed party, or simply enjoying it at home, the Sea Breeze is a versatile and refreshing vodka cocktail recipe.
It’s a testament to the art of mixology and the joy of crafting cocktails that transport you to the tranquility of the coast.
Cheers to mastering the art of the perfect Sea Breeze!
