Winter Cranberry Aperol Spritz
Introduction
As the winter chill settles in, it’s the perfect time to enjoy a refreshing drink that will warm your spirits. The Winter Cranberry Aperol Spritz is a delightful cocktail that combines the bright flavors of cranberry and the bittersweet taste of Aperol. This drink not only looks festive but tastes fantastic too. With its bubbly Prosecco and a touch of soda water, it’s a light and invigorating choice for your winter gatherings.
Why make this recipe
There are so many reasons to embrace this recipe. First, it’s a simple yet elegant drink that can impress your friends and family. You don’t need to be a mixology expert to whip this up. Plus, it uses easily accessible ingredients that you can find at your local grocery store. This spritz has a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making it a great companion for winter meals or holiday celebrations. The splash of soda adds a refreshing fizz, lifting everyone’s mood in those cold months.
How to prepare Winter Cranberry Aperol Spritz
Preparing the Winter Cranberry Aperol Spritz is as enjoyable as sipping it. It doesn’t take much time at all, and the steps are straightforward. This cocktail allows you to show off your bartending skills without the complicated techniques. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
3 oz Prosecco
2 oz cranberry juice (100% juice)
1 oz Aperol
1 oz soda water
Fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish)
Ice cubes
Steps:
First, start by filling a wine glass with ice cubes. Next, pour in 1 oz of Aperol followed by 2 oz of cranberry juice. Be gentle as you layer these ingredients. Now, slowly pour in 3 oz of Prosecco. This adds a beautiful sparkle to your drink. Finish with a splash of soda water, giving it an extra fizz.
Gently stir the drink to combine all the flavors. Be careful not to lose the bubbles. Finally, garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary and, if you like, toss in a few cranberries for a more festive touch.
How to serve Winter Cranberry Aperol Spritz
Serving your Winter Cranberry Aperol Spritz is just as simple as making it. You can present it in wine glasses, which adds to its elegance. The vibrant red color of the cranberry juice, combined with the green of the rosemary, creates a visually appealing drink. It’s best served immediately after preparing to ensure its bubbles remain intact. This drink is perfect for holiday parties, winter gatherings, or just to brighten up a chilly evening at home.
How to store 3 oz Prosecco, 2 oz cranberry juice (100% juice), 1 oz Aperol, 1 oz soda water, Fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish), Ice cubes
If you have leftover ingredients, you can store some items. Keep Prosecco in the refrigerator and ensure it’s sealed properly to maintain its bubbly nature. Store the cranberry juice in a cool place or in the fridge. Similarly, Aperol doesn’t require special storage; a cool dark cabinet will do just fine.
However, it’s best to prepare and enjoy the cocktail fresh. Once you’ve mixed it, it’s not advisable to store the finished spritz as it might lose its fizz and freshness.
Tips to make 3 oz Prosecco, 2 oz cranberry juice (100% juice), 1 oz Aperol, 1 oz soda water, Fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish), Ice cubes perfectly
To make your Winter Cranberry Aperol Spritz truly perfect, consider a few tips. Always use fresh ingredients to enhance the flavors. For a stronger cranberry taste, use 100% juice without any added sugars. When pouring in the Prosecco, do it gently to keep the bubbles intact.
If you wish, chill your ingredients ahead of time. Cold ingredients help keep the drink refreshing. Lastly, don’t skip the garnish! It not only adds flavor but also makes a beautiful presentation, making your drink feel festive and special.
Variations
Feel free to mix things up! For a twist, you could use different types of citrus juice instead of cranberry juice. Orange juice or grapefruit juice can create a completely different flavor profile. If you prefer a sweeter drink, try adding a splash of elderflower syrup. Those who like a more herbal touch can increase the rosemary or even experiment with other herbs like thyme.
FAQ
1. Can I make this drink ahead of time?
While it’s best to make the Winter Cranberry Aperol Spritz fresh, you can prepare the components in advance. Just mix the Aperol and cranberry juice, store it in the fridge, and add Prosecco and soda water just before serving.
2. What if I can’t find Prosecco?
If you cannot find Prosecco, you can substitute it with any dry sparkling wine or champagne. Just ensure it has that bubbly effervescence!
3. Is this drink suitable for non-alcoholic versions?
Definitely! You can create a non-alcoholic version by omitting the Aperol and Prosecco. Use sparkling water along with cranberry juice and a splash of tonic for fizz.
The Winter Cranberry Aperol Spritz combines elegance and taste, making it the ideal cocktail for winter servings. Enjoy this refreshing drink at your next gathering, for a cozy night in, or simply to lift your spirits on a cold winter’s eve.
