With the arrival of warm weather, a variety of refreshing drink options can elevate any gathering. From classic bittersweet spritzes to fruity shandies, these easy-to-make drinks can be tailored to individual tastes, offering something citrusy, herbal, sweet, or bitter. A simple spritz, for example, uses a 3:2:1 ratio of sparkling wine, aperitif or fortified wine, and soda water, creating a versatile base that can be adjusted with different ingredients and garnishes.
Among the classic spritzes, the Select Spritz combines 75ml prosecco, 50ml Select, and 25ml soda water, garnished with a green olive. The Campari Spritz and Aperol Spritz each use an orange slice for garnish, with 75ml prosecco, 50ml of their respective aperitifs, and 25ml soda water. Another option is the Cynar Spritz, which features 75ml prosecco, 50ml Cynar, and 25ml soda water, topped with lemon or grapefruit peel. For vermouth lovers, the Vermouth Spritz offers a choice between sweet red or white vermouth, paired with prosecco and soda water, garnished with appropriate citrus slices.
For those seeking a fresher twist, fruity spritzes like the Hugo Spritz combine 75ml prosecco, 50ml elderflower liqueur, and, optionally, 25ml gin, finished with fresh mint. Similarly, the Limoncello Spritz and Italicus Spritz incorporate limoncello and bergamot-flavoured Italicus liqueur, respectively, adding a citrusy zing. The Sarti Spritz and Amaretto Spritz provide further variety with different liqueur bases and garnishes, offering a unique taste experience.
Exploring beyond Italian influences, the Lillet Spritz allows for the choice of Lillet Blanc, Rouge, or Rosé, matched with prosecco and soda water, and garnished according to preference. Other exciting options include the Kir Spritz, Kumquat Spritz, and variations that use ginger beer instead of soda water for a sweeter finish. These international spritzes expand the possibilities for those looking to experiment with different flavor profiles.
Shandies offer a different take on refreshment by blending beer with soft drinks. Classics like the Lager Shandy mix lemonade with lager, while the Shandygaff combines ginger beer or ale with bitter. The Radler and Russ use grapefruit soda and lemonade, respectively, to mix with lager and wheat beer, while the Fruit Shandy and Cola Shandy allow for further experimentation with various sodas. For a darker twist, the Portergaff blends lemonade or ginger beer with porter or stout. To ensure optimal enjoyment, it’s recommended to chill ingredients and glasses beforehand, building spritzes over ice and pouring shandies slowly to maintain their fizz.