Sunset Celebration Recipe

chill glass

Place the serving glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes or fill with ice water while you prepare the cocktail to chill it.

prepare rim (optional)

If you want a sugared or salted rim, rub a lemon wedge around the glass rim and dip the rim into a shallow plate with coarse sugar or salt. Set the glass aside to dry briefly.

measure ingredients

Measure 2 oz vodka, 3 oz fresh grapefruit juice, 2 oz lemonade, 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice, and 0.25 oz simple syrup (omit or adjust to taste).

shake

Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add the vodka, grapefruit juice, lemonade, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until the outside of the shaker is cold.

strain

Discard ice from the chilled glass (if using ice water). Strain the contents of the shaker into the glass over fresh ice (about 3–4 large cubes) or serve neat if preferred.

Garnish the drink with a grapefruit or lemon wheel on the rim and an optional mint sprig. Taste and, if desired, add a splash more simple syrup for extra sweetness or a squeeze more lemon for brightness.

Serve immediately. Encourage guests to stir lightly before drinking if the drink was served over ice and has begun to separate.