A gin spritz is a new take on a classic cocktail. This refreshing drink combines prosecco, grapefruit juice, and flavorful gin to create something delicious for the summer.
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Learn about gin and what makes this such a unique and refreshing liquor. Plus tips for what to mix and how to drink gin.
What is gin?
Gin has been around for hundreds of years, it has roots in England and has been known to have some medicinal purposes. Today gin can be found all over the world, but each region boasts a different variety and flavor palette.
The most popular, and readily available gin is a London dry gin. It has a smooth dry taste with notes of juniper, the essential flavor of any gin. Bombay Sapphire is my go-to for most gin cocktails. It has a distinct botanical flavor and comes in a beautiful blue bottle.
Another favorite is London Beefeater, a similar flavor profile and great in mixed drinks. The best way to choose a gin is to try a few and you’ll develop your own flavor preferences.
Unlike other clear liquors such as vodka, gin is meant to have a taste. The cocktails made with gin will have a distinct juniper flavor and offer more of a tart and dry finish.
One of my favorite cocktails is the Gin and Sin. This combines sweet and sour with the distinct flavors of a London dry gin. Looking for something sweeter? Try a Juniper Royale which uses champagne to sweeten the cocktail.
What to mix with gin?
Here are a few ways to enhance gin with a mixer.
- Tonic water. The classic gin and tonic is the perfect way to enjoy the flavor of a good gin. The tonic won’t overpower the gin, it just adds a little bubbly. Add a lemon twist to complement the flavors even more.
- Citrus. Mixing gin with lemon, orange or grapefruit helps bring out the botanical flavors of a London dry gin.
- Champagne. Typically a sweeter drink, this adds a bubbly finish and some sweetness to a sometimes bitter gin cocktail.
What is a Spritz?
“A spritz is a wine-based cocktail made with prosecco, a bitter liqueur such as Aperol, Campari, or Cynar, and sparkling soda water. It’s typically served over ice in a wine glass, lowball glass, or martini glass with an orange wedge garnish.” – Spoonuniversity.com
We’ve seen the explosion of the Aperol spritz on the scene over the past few years. This classic drink has an abundance of flavor with low alcohol content. The idea of a spritz is that it should be enjoyed, a refreshing drink that is perfect to sip a warm day.
Gin has a bit of a bitter bite and when paired with prosecco and a fruit juice makes a delicious spritz.
Tips for making a gin spritz
Here are a few key supplies and ingredients for making this summer gin cocktail.
- Cocktail shaker. This is essential for your home bar. A simple shaker helps mix and cool the ingredients without watering them down.
- Jigger. This measuring tool has 2 sides, typically one is 3/4 ounce and one side is 1 1/2 ounces.
- Fresh juice and garnishes. Squeezing citrus for any cocktail instantly enhances the flavor. You can easily do this by hand and pull out any seeds. A kitchen garden with rosemary, mint, and basil allows you to easily pluck a few leaves for any cocktail.
Be sure to pin and save this recipe so you can enjoy it anytime.
Gin Spritz
A refreshing summer gin cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 4 oz grapefruit juice
- 4 oz prosecco
- Sparkling water (optional)
- Grapefruit and rosemary to garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice combine gin and grapefruit juice. Shake well.
- Strain into an ice-filled wine glass.
- Add prosecco
- Top with sparkling water as desired.
- Garnish with a wedge of grapefruit and a sprig of rosemary.
Notes
Prosecco is sweet and will compliment the gin and grapefruit. Omit the water for a stronger more flavorful drink.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 1 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 273Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 10mgCarbohydrates: 14gFiber: 0gSugar: 1gProtein: 1g
