The Blue Ocean is a built long drink that plays with the sweetness of passion fruit syrup and the tart-sour note of fresh grapefruit juice. The blue color comes from Blue Curaçao, which not only looks great but also adds a subtle orange note. Perfect for warm days when you need something fruity with a kick – no complicated techniques required.
Here’s what you need for the Blue Ocean
4 cl Blanco Tequila
3 cl Blue Curaçao
1 cl passion fruit syrup
4 cl grapefruit juice (freshly squeezed)
Lemonade (approx. 8 cl, to top up)
Garnish: 1 slice of lemon, 1 cocktail cherry
The key to success
The trick is in the timing: add the grapefruit juice just before topping up with lemonade. This keeps the acidity fresh and prevents the blue color of the Curaçao from settling too quickly. For an even more intense flavor, you can replace the passion fruit syrup with 0.5 cl fresh passion fruit pulp – this adds more texture and a slightly tart note that better complements the Tequila.
Variations
- Blue Lagoon — Replace the Tequila with 4 cl vodka and the grapefruit juice with 6 cl pineapple juice. Garnish: pineapple slice instead of lemon.
- Tropical Blue Ocean — Add 2 cl coconut syrup and replace the lemonade with soda water. Garnish: mint leaf and half a lime.
Frequently asked questions
Can I replace the Blue Curaçao with something else?
Yes, but the color and flavor will change. For a clear version, use Triple Sec; for a green version, use Midori (melon liqueur). The flavor will be less complex but still fruity.
Why does the drink sometimes turn cloudy?
This happens when the grapefruit juice sits in the glass for too long. Stir just before serving and use freshly squeezed juice – pasteurized juice from a bottle tends to turn cloudy faster.
Can I prepare this drink without alcohol?
Yes. Replace the Tequila with 4 cl alcohol-free Tequila substitute (e.g., agave-based) and the Blue Curaçao with 3 cl alcohol-free Blue Curaçao syrup. The flavor remains similar, though less complex.
