The Moonlight plays with the acidity of grapefruit and the sweetness of white wine, while Gin and cherry brandy provide depth. At first glance, the recipe seems like a simple shaker drink, but the lemon zest makes all the difference: it not only adds aroma but also binds the bitter compounds of the grapefruit, so the drink tastes smoother. Perfect for warm evenings when you want something light with a bit of a bite.
Here’s what you’ll need for the Moonlight
8 cl London Dry Gin
6 cl freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
8 cl dry white wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc)
2 cl cherry brandy
½ tsp freshly grated lemon zest (only the yellow layer, no pith)
Ice cubes
What matters here
The lemon zest isn’t just a garnish—it’s a tool: grate it fresh and squeeze it over the shaker before shaking to release the essential oils into the drink. This suppresses the bitterness of the grapefruit and highlights the aromas of the Gin. If you don’t have a grater, you can also peel the zest with a peeler and squeeze it between your fingers—but be careful not to include any pith, or the drink will taste soapy.
Variations
- Moonlight Fizz — Top the finished drink with 6 cl chilled soda water and stir briefly. Keep the ice in the glass. More refreshing but less intense.
- Moonlight Rosé — Replace the white wine with a dry rosé. The colour becomes softer, and the flavour more berry-like. Pairs well with strawberry garnish.
Frequently asked questions
Can I replace the grapefruit juice with orange juice?
Yes, but the drink will lose its characteristic bitterness. In that case, replace the lemon zest with orange zest to balance the flavours.
Why does the glass need to be chilled?
A chilled glass prevents the drink from diluting too quickly. The temperature stays stable longer, and the aromas develop better.
Can I use maraschino liqueur instead of cherry brandy?
No. Maraschino is sweet and will change the balance. Cherry brandy adds a clear fruit note without extra sweetness.
