Bubble up flavorful takes on a summer spritz cocktails

On a warm, sunny day, spritz cocktails fill the glass. Whether it is channeling that Italian summer vibe or just an appreciation for a bright, refreshing flavor, summer spritz cocktails are on the table.

While there are many variations on the recipe, Aperol and Campari are often the most common spritz cocktails. Even though sparkling wine and club soda are integral parts of the cocktail, it is usually the aperitivo that directs the flavor. Given that the other beverages are supporting flavors, the bitter, sweet, or savory ingredient is the star.

Thirsty for some twists on summer spritz cocktails?

Cynar Spritz

Channeling the savory cocktail trend, Cynar is a unique flavor that captures the Italian vibe in another way. Cynar features “cynarine” which is an element found in artichokes. While this cocktail is not blended artichokes in a glass, it is a lovely savory note.

Ingredients:

3 parts of Cinzano Prosecco

2 parts parts of Cynar

A dash of soda

1 Slice of grapefruit

Method:

In a wine glass full of ice, combine 3 parts of Cinzano Prosecco followed by 2 parts Cynar.

Add 1 part or a splash of soda water and garnish with a grapefruit slice

Pink Spritz

Ready to be tickled pink? While many people love a vibrantly colored cocktail, this Pink Spritz is more than just a blushing sipper. The Luxardo Bitter Bianco offers a subtle flavor that is bright and refreshing. Paired with the slightly tart pink grapefruit soda, it is the spritz cocktail for someone who loves a paloma or prefers a more wine forward option.

2oz Luxardo Bitter Bianco

1oz Dry white wine

3oz Pink grapefruit soda

Grapefruit wedge (garnish)

Method:

Build over ice, stir to mix and garnish with grapefruit wedge

Little Death, created by Daintree Rooftop & Lounge

This summer has everyone channeling their Parisian aesthetic and Juliette is the perfect peach liqueur that captures that joie de vivre. For those unfamiliar, Juliette uses heirloom peaches sourced from the Rhône Valley. The flavor is juicy yet sophisticated. When used in a spritz, the cocktail is enticing, just like that French culture.

Ingredients:

0.5 oz Juliette Peach Liqueur

1 oz Lo-Fi Gentian Amaro

0.25 oz Ginger Gyrup

0.25 oz Cucumber Syrup

0.5 oz Lemon Juice

Top: Champagne

Method:

Fill your glass with ice. Add Juliette Peach Liqueur, Lo-Fi Gentian Amaro, lemon juice, cucumber syrup, and ginger syrup. Gently stir and top with champagne of choice. Garnish with a cucumber ribbon

The Love Gun

While the name might be a little startling, this herbal forward take on a spritz is quite enjoyable. Using Rachael Ray’s favorite gin, Staple Gin, the cocktail is bitter yet a little fruity. The well balanced option is just Ray’s recipes that people have enjoyed over the years.  

Ingredients:

1 sprig tarragon

2 oz Staple Gin

2 oz fresh blood orange juice, plus 1 orange peel twist

2 oz Aperol

.5 ounce simple syrup

2 dashes Peychaud's Bitters

2 oz pink champagne

Method:

Muddle tarragon at the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Add remaining ingredients except for champagne, fill with ice, and shake well.

Double strain into a champagne coupe or flute. Top with champagne and blood orange peel.

Summer Spritz

While Wimbledon might bring some British favorites to the table, this Summer Spritz featured on Fight Club’s menu is one that anyone can recreate at home. The combination of Pimm’s No 1, Sprite, and fresh strawberries brings a vibrancy. With garnishes of cucumber, mint, and orange, the cocktail hits all the flavor elements and is definitely one that will get attention.

Ready to shake up your spritz cocktail? Summer is starting to fade, but the cocktails are still flowing.