How to Make the Best French Spritz Cocktail

The French Spritz cocktail is a delightful and refreshing drink that elegantly combines the flavors of French aperitifs and sparkling ingredients. Perfect for warm summer evenings or any celebratory occasion, this cocktail is loved for its lightness and fruity notes. Learn how to craft the best French Spritz cocktail with the following simple recipe.

Ingredients for the Perfect French Spritz

To make an authentic French Spritz, gather the following ingredients:

  • 3 ounces of dry French sparkling wine (such as Crémant or Champagne)
  • 1 ounce of elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain)
  • 1 ounce of tonic water or soda water
  • Fresh fruit slices (such as orange, lemon, or berries)
  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to mix your own French Spritz cocktail:

  1. Prepare Your Glass: Choose a large wine glass or a spritz glass and fill it with ice cubes, leaving some space at the top.
  2. Add Elderflower Liqueur: Pour 1 ounce of elderflower liqueur over the ice. This fragrant liqueur provides a floral sweetness that complements the other ingredients.
  3. Pour in the Sparkling Wine: Next, add 3 ounces of chilled dry French sparkling wine. The bubbles will create a lovely effervescence in your cocktail.
  4. Add Tonic Water: Top your mixture with 1 ounce of tonic water or soda water to bring in a hint of bitterness, balancing the sweetness of the elderflower.
  5. Garnish: Finally, add fresh fruit slices and a few mint leaves as garnish. These not only enhance the visual appeal but also add additional layers of flavor.
  6. Stir Gently: Use a stirring stick to mix the ingredients gently, ensuring not to disturb the bubbles too much to maintain that refreshing fizz.

Tips for the Best French Spritz

Here are some tips to ensure your French Spritz is top-notch:

  • Choose Quality Ingredients: The quality of your sparkling wine can significantly impact the drink. Opt for a good Crémant or Champagne for the best results.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to explore different fruits and herbs for garnish. Fresh raspberries, strawberries, or even cucumber slices can offer unique twists.
  • Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter drink, increase the amount of elderflower liqueur or choose a sweeter sparkling wine.

Serving Suggestions

The French Spritz cocktail is a perfect aperitif, making it ideal for serving at parties or brunches. Pair it with light appetizers such as shrimp cocktails, charcuterie boards, or fresh salads to complement the drink's refreshing taste.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make the best French Spritz cocktail, you can impress your friends and family at your next gathering. This simple yet elegant drink captures the essence of summer and will certainly be a hit at any occasion. Cheers!