Some cocktails just hit different, especially when they’re tied to memories and friendships. True to its name, the Cattle Drive Martini was concocted to reward our shared efforts after a hot day horseback on a cattle drive at Triple Creek Ranch in Montana.

I grew up loving fresh grapefruit (Florida summers will do that to you), and here in Texas where we live, it gets hot. When we got back from our ranch trip, I found myself continuing to mix-up this crisp martini with grapefruit vodka, rosemary (and plenty of ice) at home in my garden. The name stuck, and the tradition was born.

With its crisp blend of fresh grapefruit and fragrant rosemary, this cocktail offers a perfect balance of bright flavor and ranch-inspired charm. Whether you're winding down after a day on the ranch, around the house or lounging poolside, this fresh, fragrant go-to martini recipe never disappoints.

You know a recipe is a good one when it stands the test of time: 12 years later, the Cattle Drive Martini is still a favorite at the Reynolds Ranch. These days, I still make them for pool days, dinner parties, and just about any moment worth toasting.

Here’s how:

Cattle Drive Martini

Ingredients:

•  1 sprig fresh rosemary
•  Juice of 1 large grapefruit (fresh squeezed) 
•  1 double shot (3 oz) Absolut Grapefruit Vodka
•  Ice
•  Martini glass, chilled

Instructions:

1. Finely chop the rosemary and muddle it in the bottom of a cocktail shaker to release the oils.
   
   
2. Add fresh grapefruit juice and grapefruit vodka to the shaker.
   
   
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds.
   
   
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
   
   
5. Garnish with a rosemary sprig or a twist of grapefruit peel, if desired.
   
   

This drink is bright, herbaceous, and smooth: perfect for sipping with friends and telling stories as the sun goes down. I’ve yet to meet a soul who doesn’t love it!