Florida Special

Pro tips

• Use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice—avoid canned or bottled for balance and brightness.
• Chill your glass before serving to keep the cocktail cold longer without over-dilution.
• Express the lemon peel oils directly over the drink surface for maximum aromatic impact.
• Don't over-shake; 10–12 seconds is sufficient to chill and combine without excessive dilution.

Substitutions

• J. Wray and Nephew rum → aged Jamaican rum or premium gold rum (drink loses funk and depth)
• Fresh grapefruit → fresh pink grapefruit juice (slightly sweeter, less tart)
• Lemon peel twist → lime peel (citrus profile shifts toward tropical notes)

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger · bar spoon · citrus juicer or press

Can I substitute the J. Wray and Nephew rum?

J. Wray and Nephew is a Jamaican rum with distinctive funk and age. A similar aged Jamaican rum or premium gold rum works, but the drink's character will shift toward less complexity.

Should I use fresh grapefruit juice?

Yes. Fresh squeezed grapefruit juice is essential—bottled juice lacks the brightness and balance this cocktail needs.

How do I properly express the lemon peel?

Hold the peel over the drink, skin-side down, and twist sharply to release oils. Rub the rim with the peel, then drop it in as garnish.

What glassware should I use?

Serve in a coupe, Nick & Nora, or rocks glass over fresh ice. The choice depends on whether you prefer it stirred-down or on the rocks.

Should this be shaken or stirred?

Shake with ice to chill, combine ingredients, and add slight dilution. Strain into a chilled glass over fresh ice or up into a coupe.