The Palm Beach Cocktail is a refreshing gin-based drink that balances dry gin, sweet vermouth, and bright grapefruit juice for a citrus-forward flavor. It's a simple three-ingredient cocktail perfect for casual entertaining.
*Service fees apply. Instacart® and the Instacart logo are registered trademarks of Maplebear Inc. d/b/a Instacart.
Instructions
1
Shake with ice and strain into cocktail glass.
Was this recipe helpful?
Tips & Notes
Pro tips
Chill your glass before serving to keep the cocktail cold longer without excessive dilution
Measure ingredients precisely using a jigger—cocktails are chemistry, and ratios matter for balance
Use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice if possible for superior citrus flavor and natural brightness
Stir the drink with ice for 10-15 seconds to properly chill and combine ingredients before straining
Substitutions
Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → any London Dry gin or premium dry gin (taste will vary slightly)
Sweet Vermouth → Carpano Antica Formula or Noilly Prat Rouge (adjusts sweetness and spice notes)
Grapefruit Juice → fresh blood orange juice (adds tartness and deeper fruit notes)
Storage & make-ahead
Cocktails are best consumed immediately after preparation. Pre-made batches can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 2 days, though fresh juice quality will diminish.
Equipment
jigger or measuring spoon · mixing glass or cocktail shaker · bar spoon · strainer
Common Questions
Can I use fresh grapefruit juice or should I use bottled?
Fresh grapefruit juice delivers the best flavor, but quality bottled juice works if it contains no added sugar or preservatives. Avoid artificially flavored varieties.
Should this cocktail be served with ice?
Yes, serve over ice in a chilled glass. You can also chill the glass beforehand and serve up (without ice) for a more elegant presentation.
What type of gin works best for this drink?
A classic London Dry gin is traditional, but any quality dry gin works. Avoid heavily botanical or aged gins that may overpower the grapefruit.
Can I batch this cocktail for a party?
Yes, multiply the ingredients by the number of servings and chill in a pitcher. Stir well and serve over ice in individual glasses.
What garnish pairs well with this cocktail?
A grapefruit twist or slice complements the citrus profile. A cherry works if you prefer a sweeter visual accent.
More from Mr. Boston Deluxe Official Bartender's Guide
Banana Daiquiri
5 min · Mr. Boston Deluxe Official Bartender's Guide
Canal Street Daisy
5 min · Mr. Boston Deluxe Official Bartender's Guide
Fifth Avenue
5 min · Mr. Boston Deluxe Official Bartender's Guide