Crafting the perfect spritz cocktail is easier than you think. This guide breaks down how to tailor spritzes to the seasons, ensuring every sip feels just right. Whether you're enjoying a sunny day or a cosy winter evening, the classic 3-2-1 formula - 75ml sparkling wine, 50ml botanical spirit, 25ml soda water - is your starting point. Here's what you'll learn:
- Spring: Light, floral flavours like elderflower and cucumber.
- Summer: Fruity, vibrant notes with berries and citrus.
- Autumn: Rich, spiced profiles using apple and cinnamon.
- Winter: Warm, festive blends with cranberry and rosemary.
You'll also find tips on tools, garnishes, and presentation to elevate your drinks. With premium British botanical spirits like Asterley Bros, seasonal ingredients, and a touch of creativity, you’ll master spritz cocktails for any occasion.
A Better Way to Make a SPRITZ! (Essential Cocktails 41/50)
Tools and Ingredients You Need for Spritz Cocktails
Making seasonal spritz cocktails at home is all about combining the right tools with top-notch ingredients. While spritzes are known for their simplicity, using the proper equipment and high-quality components can elevate your creations to bar-worthy status.
Barware and Glassware You'll Need
To create spritz cocktails that stand out, you'll need some basic tools and the right glassware. Start with a jigger - this ensures you stick to the classic 3-2-1 ratio, which is essential for a well-balanced spritz. Without precise measurements, you risk ending up with a drink that’s overly sweet, bitter, or lacking in character.
A long-handled bar spoon is another must-have. It allows you to stir gently, keeping the fizz intact. If you’re mixing in a jug or working with muddled fruits and herbs, a strainer will come in handy to ensure a smooth pour.
When it comes to glassware, opt for large wine or balloon glasses. These not only hold plenty of ice and garnishes but also allow the drink’s botanical aromas to shine. Plus, their shape beautifully highlights the vibrant colours and garnishes, making your spritz as visually appealing as it is delicious.
You can find these tools and glasses from UK retailers for around £15–£30, making it easy to bring a professional touch to your home bar setup.
Main Ingredients for a Good Spritz
A spritz relies on three main components, each playing a crucial role in its flavour and texture.
- Sparkling wine is the foundation, offering the effervescence and lightness that define the drink. In the UK, a 750ml bottle of Prosecco or English sparkling wine typically costs £10–£25, with both options delivering a delightful fizz and flavour profile.
- Soda water is just as important - it adds crispness and ensures the drink is refreshingly light. Using filtered or bottled soda water can enhance the clarity and taste of your cocktail.
- The third key element is a botanical spirit, which brings depth and character. Asterley Bros London is a standout choice, offering handcrafted English vermouths, amaro, and aperitivo infused with British botanicals. Their vermouths, for instance, can add herbaceous notes perfect for spring, while a sweeter version works beautifully for autumn. Their aperitivo delivers a bittersweet edge ideal for summer, while their amaro introduces warm, spiced flavours that are perfect for winter. These spirits range from £25–£35 for 500ml–700ml bottles and are a versatile addition to your bar.
Adding Garnishes and Extra Flavours
Garnishes can turn a basic spritz into a seasonal masterpiece. Fresh herbs like mint, rosemary, or thyme not only look great but also release aromatic oils that enhance the drink. Citrus slices - such as orange, lemon, lime, or grapefruit - add brightness and subtle flavour, while fruits like berries, cherries, or apple slices tie your cocktail to the season.
One essential tip: use large, fresh ice cubes. They melt slowly, keeping the drink cold without diluting the flavours or fizz too quickly.
To experiment further, try adding a splash of fruit liqueur or syrup. For example, elderflower liqueur adds a floral touch perfect for spring, while hibiscus syrup brings a pop of colour and floral notes ideal for summer. Just remember, these extras should enhance - not overpower - the botanical spirit at the heart of your spritz.
With these tools, ingredients, and techniques, you’re ready to start crafting your own seasonal spritz creations.
Seasonal Spritz Recipes for Every Time of Year
With the right tools and premium botanical spirits, you can turn any spritz into a seasonal delight. These recipes stick to the classic 3-2-1 ratio while adding ingredients that perfectly reflect the flavours of each season. Let’s dive into spring’s refreshing botanical blends and work our way through to winter’s rich and warming creations.
Spring Spritzes
Garden Spritz with Cucumber and Basil
- 75ml Schofield's English Dry Vermouth
- 50ml elderflower liqueur
- 25ml soda water
- Fresh cucumber slices
- Basil leaves
- Ice
Combine everything in a large wine glass filled with ice. Stir gently, then garnish with cucumber ribbons and fresh basil. The complex botanical notes of Schofield's vermouth pair beautifully with the floral elderflower, creating a drink that’s as refreshing as a spring breeze.
For something more classic, try the English Hugo Spritz:
- 75ml Prosecco
- 50ml elderflower liqueur
- 25ml soda water
- Fresh mint
- Lime wheel
Serve over plenty of ice in a highball glass. Garnish with fresh mint and edible flowers for a drink that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Summer Spritzes
As the temperature rises, summer spritzes lean into lighter, fruitier flavours.
Asterley Original Summer Spritz
- 75ml Asterley Original British Aperitivo
- 50ml Limoncello
- 25ml soda water
- Lemon wheel
- Fresh rosemary sprig
- Ice
Pour into a chilled wine glass, stir, and garnish with a lemon wheel and a sprig of rosemary. Asterley Original delivers a uniquely British twist on the Italian aperitivo style, making this a perfect summer sipper.
Another crowd-pleaser is the Rose & Raspberry Spritz:
- 75ml Prosecco
- 50ml raspberry liqueur
- 25ml soda water
- Fresh raspberries
- Rose petals (optional)
- Ice
This spritz balances fruity brightness with a touch of elegance. Garnish with fresh raspberries and rose petals for a drink that’s ideal for summer gatherings or special occasions.
Autumn Spritzes
As autumn arrives, spritzes take on warming, orchard-inspired flavours.
Orchard Spritz
- 75ml Estate English Sweet Vermouth
- 50ml spiced apple cider
- 25ml soda water
- Apple slice
- Cinnamon stick
- Ice
Combine the ingredients in a tumbler over ice, then garnish with a cinnamon stick and a fresh apple slice. The Estate Sweet Vermouth’s honeyed sweetness and botanical depth complement the spiced apple cider, making this a cosy yet refreshing autumn drink.
Prefer something with a bitter edge? Try the Spiced Amaro Spritz:
- 75ml Dispense Modern British Amaro
- 50ml pear liqueur
- 25ml soda water
- Pear slice
- Thyme sprig
- Ice
Mix in a glass over ice and garnish with a pear slice and fresh thyme. Dispense Amaro’s warming spices and herbal notes make this an ideal choice for crisp autumn evenings.
Winter Spritzes
Winter spritzes are all about rich, festive flavours that bring warmth to the cold months.
Festive Winter Spritz
- 75ml Britannica London Fernet
- 50ml cranberry juice
- 25ml soda water
- Orange wedge
- Fresh rosemary sprig
- Fresh cranberries
- Ice
Combine in a wine glass, then garnish with a sprig of rosemary, an orange wedge, and a few fresh cranberries. Britannica Fernet adds a spiced complexity that makes this drink perfect for holiday celebrations.
For a sweeter winter option, try the Spiced Orange Spritz:
- 75ml Estate English Sweet Vermouth
- 50ml blood orange juice
- 25ml soda water
- Orange zest
- Star anise
- Ice
Mix in a glass over ice, then garnish with orange zest and a star anise. The Estate vermouth’s warming sweetness pairs beautifully with the rich, seasonal flavour of blood orange.
These recipes, featuring premium Asterley Bros botanical spirits, bring a distinctly British flair to every glass. With quality ingredients and fresh, seasonal garnishes, each spritz is perfectly balanced and full of character. Up next, explore tips for using seasonal garnishes to make your cocktails truly stand out.
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How to Present Spritz Cocktails with Seasonal Garnishes
When it comes to spritz cocktails, presentation plays a big role in enhancing both their aroma and visual charm. A thoughtful garnish not only adds to the drink's appeal but also heightens the overall experience. Research even suggests that fresh, seasonal garnishes can make cocktails more enjoyable.
Garnish Ideas for Each Season
Spring garnishes are all about embracing the fresh, botanical vibes of the season. Think of herbs like mint, basil, and thyme. Mint brings a lively green hue and refreshing scent, while basil adds a sweet, slightly peppery note that works beautifully with citrus and floral liqueurs. Thyme, with its subtle earthiness, looks elegant perched on the rim or tucked into the glass.
For a touch of drama, edible flowers and cucumber ribbons are perfect. A cucumber ribbon curled inside the glass creates a striking effect, while violet or elderflower petals floating on top add a delicate splash of colour and fragrance.
Summer garnishes lean towards bright, fruity accents that mirror the season's energy. Berries - like strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries - can be skewered or simply floated in the drink for bursts of colour. Citrus wheels or zesty twists from lemons, limes, and oranges add a refreshing kick. For instance, a grapefruit spritz garnished with a grapefruit peel twist and a few blackberries offers a vibrant, summery look that’s both festive and flavourful.
Fresh mint sprigs are another summer favourite, providing a cooling aroma that pairs well with lighter spirits. The secret? Use garnishes that stay fresh and vibrant, even in the heat.
Autumn garnishes bring in the cosy, orchard-inspired flavours of the season. Apple slices, pear wedges, and orange wheels, especially when dusted with cinnamon or paired with star anise, create warm and inviting presentations. A spritz featuring Asterley Bros' Amaro, complemented by a thin apple slice and a cinnamon stick, perfectly captures the essence of autumn. Whole spices like cloves, nutmeg, and allspice - used sparingly - can add depth to the drink without overwhelming it.
Floating a few whole cloves or a star anise on top not only adds visual interest but also introduces a festive aroma.
Winter garnishes add a touch of festive elegance and warming scents to cold-weather spritzes. For example, a winter spritz made with Asterley Bros' Aperitivo, garnished with an orange wedge, a twist of orange zest, and a rosemary sprig, offers a sophisticated look and releases a piney aroma that complements the drink’s balance.
Once you’ve chosen your garnishes, it’s time to think about glassware and ice to complete the presentation.
Choosing Glassware and Using Ice
The right glassware can make all the difference. Opt for large wine or balloon glasses, paired with 4–6 clear, large ice cubes. These glasses allow bubbles to rise properly, aromas to develop fully, and leave enough room for garnishes without overcrowding.
For an added touch, chill the glasses before serving. This not only keeps the drinks cold but also creates a beautiful condensation effect that adds to the visual appeal.
With your glassware and ice sorted, let’s explore how to serve spritz cocktails at gatherings.
Serving Spritz Cocktails at Parties
A seasonal spritz bar is a fantastic way to impress guests. Set up a station with an assortment of garnishes, botanical spirits, and the right glassware, allowing guests to customise their drinks. This interactive element adds a fun twist to your event. Seasonal-themed decorations can also enhance the overall vibe.
For winter parties, a spritz station featuring Asterley Bros' Aperitivo and Amaro, paired with rosemary sprigs and citrus wheels, makes for a striking centrepiece. Including recipe cards or pairing suggestions encourages guests to experiment with flavours and adds an educational touch to the experience.
To keep garnishes fresh, store herbs in water and citrus slices in airtight containers, refreshing them as needed. Prepare garnishes just before serving to maintain their vibrancy, and have extras on hand for longer events. Pre-batching spritz bases can also save time, letting you focus on presentation and mingling with guests.
An expert touch involves pairing garnishes with the dominant botanicals in your chosen spirits. For example, a spritz made with Asterley Bros' English Vermouth - featuring herbs like wormwood and chamomile - pairs wonderfully with thyme sprigs or chamomile flowers. Meanwhile, orange twists or cinnamon sticks enhance the bittersweet complexity of Amaro-based spritzes.
The goal is to create harmony between the garnish and the spirit. Use rosemary to highlight piney notes, citrus for a zesty kick, or warming spices to complement herbaceous profiles. This thoughtful pairing elevates your cocktails, showcasing both the seasonal ingredients and the complexity of botanical spirits.
Making Seasonal Spritzes Year-Round
Spritz cocktails are a celebration of versatility and imagination. With the right botanical spirits and a few simple techniques, you can create delightful spritzes no matter the season - whether it’s a frosty January evening or a sunny August afternoon. At the heart of every great spritz is the classic 3-2-1 formula.
This formula is straightforward: 75ml sparkling wine, 50ml botanical spirit, and 25ml soda water. The magic lies in swapping botanical spirits and garnishes to reflect the flavours of the season.
Botanical spirits are the key ingredient for crafting spritzes that match the time of year. For example, Asterley Bros' English Dry Vermouth (£25.95) brings crisp, herbaceous notes perfect for spring and summer, while their Modern British Amaro (£30.95) offers rich, warming flavours ideal for autumn and winter. Pair these with seasonal produce - lighter aperitivos and dry vermouths for summer, and richer sweet vermouths or London Fernet (£37.95) for the colder months.
Experimentation is the secret to creating your signature spritz. Incorporate local, seasonal ingredients like rhubarb and mint in spring, strawberries and basil in summer, apples and cinnamon in autumn, or cranberries and rosemary in winter. Keep track of combinations that work and don’t shy away from trying unexpected pairings - they might surprise you!
For an extra touch, use British sparkling wines and garnishes from local markets. Not only will this elevate your drink, but it also supports sustainability and celebrates local craftsmanship.
If you’re eager to refine your skills, consider attending an Asterley Bros Aperitivo Masterclass. These sessions offer tastings of their full range, insights into vermouth production, and hands-on experience in crafting aperitivo cocktails that can easily be adapted into spritz recipes. You’ll even leave with a bottle of their award-winning English Vermouth (RRP £24.95) to continue your experiments at home.
As you experiment, balance is essential. If your botanical spirit is on the sweeter side, opt for a dry sparkling wine. Add a splash of citrus juice for brightness and adjust the soda water to control dilution. Fresh herbs can enhance aroma without overpowering the drink. Taste as you go, making small adjustments until the flavours come together harmoniously.
Ultimately, a spritz should embody the essence of its season. A spring spritz should feel fresh and invigorating, summer versions should be bright and lively, autumn spritzes should offer warmth and comfort, and winter ones should feel rich and celebratory. With high-quality botanical spirits like those from Asterley Bros and a bit of creativity, every season becomes an opportunity to craft something special. These seasonal spritzes are not just drinks - they’re a toast to British ingenuity and craftsmanship.
FAQs
How can I customise the classic 3-2-1 spritz recipe for different seasons?
The classic 3-2-1 spritz formula - three parts sparkling wine, two parts Aperitivo, and one part soda water - is a true all-rounder, ready to be tailored to any season. The secret lies in picking seasonal ingredients and flavours that enhance the base. In spring, think of light, floral or herbal accents like elderflower or fresh mint. Summer calls for juicy, vibrant fruits such as peaches or berries. Autumn pairs beautifully with warming spices or apple-infused touches, while winter shines with bold, citrusy flavours like blood orange or spiced Aperitivo.
For an extra layer of sophistication, try incorporating handcrafted botanical spirits, like those from Asterley Bros, which bring depth and nuance to your spritz. And let’s not overlook the garnishes - seasonal herbs, fresh fruits, or even edible flowers can transform your drink into a visual delight, perfectly in tune with the time of year.
How can I choose the best botanical spirits for seasonal spritz cocktails?
When it comes to choosing the perfect botanical spirits for your seasonal spritz cocktails, it’s all about enhancing the flavours that suit the time of year. Seek out spirits made with fresh, natural ingredients like herbs, fruits, and spices. For spring and summer, lighter, floral options work beautifully - think a crisp English Vermouth or a citrusy aperitivo. As the weather cools in autumn and winter, richer, spiced choices like Amaro bring a cosy depth to your drinks.
Quality is key, so opt for handcrafted spirits whenever possible. Brands like Asterley Bros are known for their refined, well-balanced flavours that can take your cocktails to the next level. Don’t be afraid to experiment with combinations until you discover your favourite seasonal mix!
How can garnishes elevate the flavour and look of spritz cocktails, and what are the best seasonal options?
Garnishes are more than just a decorative touch - they elevate both the taste and look of spritz cocktails, often enhancing the drink's botanical character while tying it to the season.
In spring, edible flowers like violets or a twist of lemon peel can bring out the drink's fresh, floral qualities. For summer, think slices of citrus, fresh berries, or a sprig of mint to add a cooling, vibrant feel. As autumn arrives, dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, or rosemary are perfect for evoking cosy, spiced warmth. And during winter, garnishes like star anise, cranberries, or even a small sprig of pine can lend a festive and aromatic touch.
With a bit of thought, the right garnish can turn an ordinary spritz into a drink that perfectly captures the essence of the season.