The cocktail notebook · Vodka
Sea Breeze
Cranberry-tart with grapefruit bitterness. A fruit highball made by build.
- Base
- vodka
- Method
- Build
- Glass
- Highball
- Yield
- One drink
Recipe reference: IBA reference recipe. Standardise the cranberry product before service.
Sea Breeze recipe
1 serving · IBA reference recipeMillilitres control this recipe. US fluid ounces are rounded to the nearest quarter ounce for convenience and are not a different recipe ratio. Dashes, spoons, leaves and other non-liquid measures are listed as written.
| Measure | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 40 ml≈ 1.25 US fl oz | vodka |
| 120 ml≈ 4 US fl oz | cranberry juice, selected house product |
| 30 ml≈ 1 US fl oz | grapefruit juice |
Ice: Cubed ice. Garnish: Orange zest and 1 cocktail cherry.
Learning bar service? Find the Sea Breeze in the free course's optional references →
How to make it
- Prepare fresh cubed ice in the highball.
- Measure vodka and both juices.
- Lift gently to distribute the ingredients.
- Add orange zest and cherry using clean tools.
Why it works: Cranberry is the largest measured component. Grapefruit contributes a different bitter-tart edge from orange juice.
Common mistakes, useful fixes
Unbalanced juice
verify brand and sweetness.
Wrong mixer
grapefruit is not orange.
Weak flavour
measure rather than topping by eye.
Serving the guest
What to tell the guest
Cranberry-tart with grapefruit bitterness. Cranberry is the largest measured component. Grapefruit contributes a different bitter-tart edge from orange juice.
Dietary and product checks
Check exact products, declared allergens and cross-contact controls before service.
Variations
- Any adaptation needs a recorded recipe and an honest description. Recommend a different drink or clearly named, tested adaptation.
Where does the Sea Breeze come from?
Origin: Origin not yet verified in this edition. (Origin not yet verified in this edition)
Sea Breeze is taught as a distinct cranberry-and-grapefruit formula, rather than as a generic mixed juice drink. Its name alone does not establish a location of invention. Compare its recipe with Sex on the Beach to practise recognising which fruit and liqueur changes actually alter the order.
Sea Breeze questions
Which juice is present in the larger amount?
Cranberry juice: 120 ml, compared with 30 ml grapefruit.
What preparation detail matters for this order?
Cranberry is the largest measured component. Grapefruit contributes a different bitter-tart edge from orange juice.
From a recipe to a repeatable skill
Learn the method behind the order.
Sea Breeze is an optional reference recipe in Essential Cocktails & Bar Foundations. Useful cranberry/grapefruit order; overlaps highball and juice-product decisions.
The course is free. An optional paid certificate tests knowledge in an online exam; it is not an observed practical assessment or an accredited bartending qualification.