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There's a lot of mystery and allure in the realm of boozy beverages. Perhaps the spirits' enchantment removes inhibitions in anyone who comes into contact with them. Considering the dizzying array of drinks that have taken the world by storm throughout the centuries, it's no surprise. Though people have varying reactions to their flavour, their names frequently leave them at a loss for words. Greyhound is one example of a very unique drink. If you're a dog person, you might have heard this name. This fast and agile canines breed is regular in dog races, hunts, and coursing competitions. What does this dog have to do with the Greyhound drink? It's time to discover who unleashed this dog... er, alcoholic beverage?
The classic recipe, variations and ideal glasses
The original Greyhound cocktail recipe calls for only grapefruit juice and gin. However, several modifications emerged throughout time. Soon, vodka became a popular substitute of gin. As a basic drink, it lends itself well to customization. The drink becomes Sea Breeze when you add some sweetened cranberry juice. Rub salt on your glass's rim and call it a Salty Dog. There's also Italian Greyhound, which uses Campari and vodka instead of gin. There is also Dalmatian and, in this version, the ingredients are vodka and black pepper syrup. You may use a rocks glass, Collins glass, highball glass, or even a Martini glass to serve Greyhound Cocktail.
The traditional preparation requires fresh grapefruit. Nonetheless, many establishments have turned to canned grapefruit juice over the years. A Greyhound Cocktail made with fresh juice is a more refreshing alternative. It produces a beverage that works well as a morning drink, brunch beverage, or afternoon pick-me-up.
Origin and name of Greyhound Cocktail
Most people assume a link between the Greyhound cocktail and the dog breed with the same name. But shockingly, that isn't the case. The "Savoy Cocktail Book," written by sommelier and author Harry Craddock, is where the Greyhound Cocktail was originally described in 1930. Craddock included this simple classic cocktail recipe in his book, which calls for gin, grapefruit juice, and ice. The cocktail wasn't dubbed a "greyhound" until 1945. Apparently, this is when Harper's Magazine published the name under the guise that it was often enjoyed at Greyhound bus stations. Post House, a common brand located at the Greyhound bus terminal, is rumoured to have served its version with vodka. Because of the high volume of out-of-town visitors eating at these establishments, word of the vodka cocktail spread rapidly. In the United States, vodka began to supplant gin as the spirit of choice for Greyhound Cocktail in about 1950.
Greyhound Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 60ml vodka or gin
- 120 ml Grapefruit juice, freshly squeezed
- Ice cubes
- Lime wheel for garnish
Method
- Take a rock or martini glass and fill it with a few ice cubes
- Pour the vodka or gin into the glass, top it up with grapefruit juice, and give the drink a gentle stir
Give the finishing touch by garnishing with a lime wheel.