Nothing makes a summer evening more enjoyable than a little bev or cocktail. And what I’ve come to learn about myself is that an Aperol or Hugo spritz is my absolute favorite choice. But what I’ve also come to learn is that there are close to a million other ways to make spritzes besides the two aforementioned classics, and these experiments have gained lots of popularity online. My social media feed continues to be filled with videos of people making unique spritz variations, which I naturally have sent to my roommates urging them to try them with me. But out of all the recipes I’ve seen, here are my top 10 must-try spritzes for summer.
Strawberry Sparkling Rosé Hugo Spritz
This @dietitiancass video was the first I saw this spring that convinced me to be more creative with my spritzes. Add ice to your glasses. Top with sparkling rosé, elderflower liqueur, sparkling seltzer water, strawberry syrup. Garnish with fresh strawberries, and mix.
Cherry Aperol Spritz
I’m a cherry fan through and through, and according to @yellowbellykelly, this summer is the best time to try them in a spritz. Add ice to your glasses. Top with Aperol, cherry juice, Prosecco, and cherry sparkling water. Garnish with a cherry, and mix.
Raspberry Lime Spritz
You can never go wrong with a little balance between sweet and sour, and this recipe from @cocktails does just that. Muddle limes, raspberries, gin, and lime juice. Shake with ice, and add to another glass with fresh ice and tonic water. Garnish with limes and raspberries, and mix.
Peach & Lemon Spritz
Peaches are another top five fruit for me, but obviously they’re best when in season, so take advantage of the juiciness while it lasts and make this @taylormariekelly_ recipe. Add ice to your glasses. Top with vodka, elderflower liqueur, San Pellegrino, lemon juice, and Prosecco. Garnish with peaches and lemon, and mix.
Sarti Spritz
This is a new Italian aperitif that you must get your hands on to try before it gets too popular, as suggested by @alyssachuchi! Add ice to your glasses. Top with Prosecco, Sarti, and sparkling seltzer water. Garnish with blood orange wheels, and mix.
Lavender Lemonade Spritz
This one is for the chill girlies like @lexnicoleta who already have a regulated mind, but definitely won’t say no to a relaxing drink with an outdoor summer meal. Add ice to your glasses. Top with lavender-infused vodka, lemon juice, lavender syrup, and club soda. Garnish with lemon wheels, and mix.
Strawberry Aperol Spritz
This spritz by @crowdedkitchen will teach you that patience is a virtue. Fill a jar with sliced strawberries, then pour in Aperol. Make sure strawberries are submerged and seal. Infuse in the refrigerator for anywhere from 1 day to a week. Strain the Aperol through a mesh sieve and use a spoon to push juice through. Add ice to your glasses. Top with strawberry Aperol, sparkling rosé, and club soda. Garnish with a strawberry, and mix.
Lychee Spritz
Lychee has had its moment in the past year in martinis, but @justjuko believes you shouldn’t count it out for spritzes either. Add ice to your glasses. Top with Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, and lychee juice. Garnish with lychee, and mix.
Hugo Spritz Margarita
If you’re a tequila girl wanting something more unique, try this @drinkswithdanica margarita with a spritzy twist. Brush the side of a glass with agave. Roll onto a plate with salt, and place in the freezer to set. Add mint leaves and elderflower liqueur to a cocktail shaker, and gently muddle. Add tequila, lime juice, and ice, then shake until chilled. Strain into prepped glass filled with fresh ice. Top with Prosecco, and garnish with fresh mint.
Spicy Rosé Spritz
This one is for the people who love a good kick in their typical cocktail recipes, and you can try it with @drinkamie rose. Add ice to your glasses. Top with rosé and soda water. Garnish with fresh jalapeños, and mix.