Have You Ever Tried an Old Southern Purple Passion?

Have you ever tried an Old Southern Purple Passion? Many have had “purple passion,” but not this recipe from many years ago. It’s taken me a while to remember it, then even a little longer to get it to taste the same as I remember, from many years ago.

Is there a difference in an Old Southern Purple Passion and a store bought Purple Passion?

Yes, I have tried a sip or two of the premixed store bought Purple Passion drinks. They are nothing like what was made in my mom’s kitchen. I was raised with a completely different Purple Passion in our house. The bottled ones have always had a more grape flavor and taste. They are on the sweet side. I am not a fan of artificial grape flavors or drinks.

The History of This “Purple Passion”

Do you ever have those memories of something from a long, long time ago? Lingering, but just not whole? Suddenly a smell, noise or taste sends you on a trip? A beautiful trip down memory lane. They are there, just not in full detail? I do. That is what this recipe stemmed from. When I was 6 or 7 years old (hell, maybe 10 or 12), I can recall my stepdad making up a pitcher of Purple Passion for my mom before they were heading out on date night. 

Their date night usually consisted of dinner then to wherever the best band at the time was playing. They loved to dance. My mom was quite good. I would say they went dancing, at least once a month, so this drink would frequent the fridge. I can still see the harvest gold half gallon Tupperware pitcher sitting in the refrigerator.

Don’t Lie – Just Try an Old Southern Purple Passion

I cannot tell a lie and say that I never took a sip of it. What I can honestly tell you though, it’s a good thing taste buds change or this recipe would have never been recreated. My fondness for grapefruit juice was not even a 1 on a scale of 1 – 10, additionally when adding vodka to that situation, it went to about a -5! I’m so glad I thought about this tasty libation and started working to make it taste just like my mom’s Old Southern Purple Passion. My only regret is that it did not cross my mind while she was still alive. That way I would have known exact ingredients and amounts. All in all, I do believe that this one would be a 10+ for her. 

Old Southern Purple Passion – Checking Some Boxes

What boxes do you need to check for you to have a cocktail that is appealing to you? Many people do not like “sweet” alcohol drinks. This drink will usually satisfy someone who enjoys a vodka drink that has a clean, fruity taste. Like a Sea Breeze or Bay Breeze, smooth and refreshing. It isn’t heavy. Easy to mix, only 3 ingredients; juices & vodka. My go to vodka is Rock Town. [Small update: The Rock Town Pink Grapefruit Vodka is perfect for this cocktail] For the most part you can make a whole pitcher ahead of time.

What is the perfect occasion for one?

This Old Southern Purple Passion would be perfect for having premixed for tailgating, lake lounging, or back porch sipping. Any time that you want to have a drink that is already in the cooler ready to pour.

This can be made a day, week or hour ahead of time. That is what I really love about it. Easy to store, transport and serve. No blender, shaker, or fancy glass needed. You don’t have to garnish or rim the glass. You can if you want, but it isn’t necessary.

I will say, I take a salt shaker or a small restaurant packet of salt when I am drinking these. It just adds a little “something, something.” When at home, I add one light shake or pinch to each glass I serve. It just does something. It kick’s that little bit of bitter, that the grapefruit puts into the drink. 

When is a Good Time to Serve an Old Southern Purple Passion?

Any! That’s right, just about any. If you aren’t a Mimosa person, then this might be perfect for brunch. I find it quite crisp, so it’s a perfect refreshment on a hot afternoon. Literally, I could drink this drink just about anytime for any occasion. I sincerely hope that this is a new “old” favorite for you, too.

If This Isn’t For You:

Maybe this would not be the cocktail for you. Here are a couple of links for a few of my others. Maybe one of these will be right up your ally!

12 Tipsy Days of Recipes – You’ll get 12 of my best here!

Southern French Martini – Frothy & Fruity!

Delicious Drunken Iced Coffee – Coffee with a Kick!

Cheers Y’all!

Till the next post or new cocktail!

XOXO ~ Trina