About this recipe
A seasonal spritz with the same simple base, refreshed throughout the year with fruit, herbs, and garnishes that suit each season.
Serve a welcome drink that sets the tone for the gathering, using one go-to spritz formula that can shift from bright and citrusy to rich and spiced as the seasons change.
Welcoming • Seasonal • Effortless
Signature Seasonal Spritz
Equipment
- Large pitcher or carafe
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Bar spoon or long spoon
- Citrus juicer
- Wine glasses, coupes, or tumblers for serving
- Fine strainer (optional)
- Ice bucket (optional)
- Small garnish tray (optional)
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1½ cups sparkling wine (prosecco, or nonalcoholic sparkling alternative)
- ¾ cup clean spirit (vodka, gin, or citrus liqueur OR additional sparkling water for alcohol-free version)
- ¾ cup fresh citrus juice (lemon, lime, or orange blend)
- 1½ cups chilled sparkling water
- Ice for serving
Seasonal Accent Ingredients
- Fresh herbs (fruit, or seasonal syrup)
- Citrus slices or garnish element
Instructions
Method
- Fill a large pitcher halfway with ice.
- Add citrus juice and chosen spirit (or additional sparkling water).
- Pour in sparkling wine followed by sparkling water.
- Add seasonal accent ingredients and stir gently.
- Taste and adjust brightness with additional citrus if needed.
- Pour into glasses over fresh ice and garnish simply.
Make-Ahead Notes
- Citrus juice and seasonal syrups can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated.
- Garnishes may be prepped earlier in the day.
- Assemble the spritz just before guests arrive to maintain carbonation.
- For larger gatherings, mix the still ingredients first and add bubbles at the last moment.
Notes
Seasonal Variations
Spring
Fresh, floral, and herb-driven:- Elderflower liqueur or syrup
- Cucumber slices
- Mint, basil, or thyme
- Lemon or Meyer lemon juice
Summer
Sun-ripened and vibrant:- Fresh berries or stone fruit slices
- Blood orange or grapefruit juice
- Basil or rosemary
- Optional Aperol or citrus liqueur
Autumn
Orchard warmth:- Apple cider reduction or pear nectar
- Rosemary or sage sprig
- Orange peel garnish
- Light cinnamon simple syrup (optional)
Winter
Bright citrus with subtle depth:- Cranberry juice or pomegranate splash
- Orange or mandarin juice
- Thyme or rosemary garnish
- Star anise or clove syrup (very light)
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