We’ve always loved the Bourbon Spritz for its bold yet bubbly charm, blending the rich warmth of American bourbon with the light fizz of a classic Italian spritz. It’s a refreshing cocktail that brings a modern twist to happy hours, perfect for easing into evenings or spicing up gatherings.
What makes our version stand out is its simplicity and versatility—we use everyday ingredients to create a drink that’s both sophisticated and approachable. Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast or new to mixology, this recipe promises a delightful balance of flavors that’ll have you coming back for more.
Ingredients
In crafting our refreshing Bourbon Spritz, we select high-quality ingredients that blend the warmth of American bourbon with the sparkle of Italian-inspired spritz elements. Below, we list them in the order of use, with precise measurements and prep notes to ensure a balanced, vibrant cocktail.
- Bourbon: 2 ounces of premium bourbon – we recommend a smooth, aged variety to provide the foundational rich, oaky notes that define this drink.
- Aperol: 1 ounce – this vibrant orange liqueur adds a bittersweet citrus twist; gently chill it beforehand for optimal mixing.
- Prosecco: 3 ounces – opt for a dry, bubbly Prosecco to introduce effervescence and lift the cocktail’s overall freshness.
- Soda water: 1 ounce – use chilled soda water to top off the drink, creating a light, fizzy finish without diluting the flavors too quickly.
- Orange slice: 1 fresh slice for garnish – cut it thinly just before serving to release its zesty aroma and enhance the visual appeal.
- Fresh thyme sprig (optional): 1 sprig – muddle it lightly if desired, to infuse subtle herbal undertones that complement the bourbon’s complexity.
Tools and Equipment
To craft the perfect Bourbon Spritz, we rely on a few essential tools that ensure precision, ease, and a professional finish. These items help us measure accurately, mix efficiently, and present the cocktail with flair, building seamlessly on our carefully selected ingredients like bourbon and Aperol.
Here’s a curated list of the key tools we recommend:
- Jigger or Measuring Cup: This is crucial for precise measurements, such as the 2 ounces of bourbon or 1 ounce of Aperol. We use it to avoid overpouring, maintaining the cocktail’s balanced flavors and ensuring consistency every time.
- Bar Spoon: Ideal for gentle stirring when combining ingredients in the glass. We find it indispensable for incorporating the effervescence of Prosecco and soda water without losing bubbles, resulting in a smoother, more refreshing sip.
- Highball or Wine Glass: Serving in a highball glass enhances the drink’s visual appeal and allows room for ice and garnishes. We prefer this for our Bourbon Spritz as it showcases the vibrant colors and lets the aromas shine during social gatherings.
- Ice Bucket or Tray: Fresh ice is key to chilling the cocktail quickly. We always use plenty to keep the drink crisp and invigorating, especially since Prosecco and soda water add that essential sparkle.
- Paring Knife and Cutting Board: These are necessary for preparing garnishes like the orange slice. We use them to cut clean, precise pieces that not only elevate the presentation but also release subtle citrus oils for added depth.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to move forward and mix our Bourbon Spritz effortlessly.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our premium ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through crafting the perfect Bourbon Spritz with precision and ease.
Prepare Ingredients
Before mixing, we ensure all components are prepped for optimal flavor and presentation. Start by measuring out the liquids: 2 ounces of premium bourbon for its rich, oaky warmth; 1 ounce of Aperol for a vibrant, bittersweet citrus note; 3 ounces of dry Prosecco to add effervescent sparkle; and 1 ounce of chilled soda water for a light, refreshing finish. Next, prepare the garnishes—slice a fresh orange into thin wheels using a paring knife and cutting board, and if desired, pluck a sprig of thyme for an herbal aroma that elevates the cocktail’s complexity.
Assemble the Drink
With ingredients ready, we build the Bourbon Spritz layer by layer for a harmonious blend. First, fill a highball or wine glass with ice cubes to keep the drink crisp and chilled. Pour in the 2 ounces of premium bourbon, followed by 1 ounce of Aperol, then gently add 3 ounces of dry Prosecco to create a fizzy base that bubbles with lively energy. Use a bar spoon to stir lightly, incorporating the flavors without losing the effervescence. Finally, top with 1 ounce of chilled soda water for a subtle lift, watching as the mixture transforms into a vibrant, sunset-hued cocktail that promises a tantalizing mix of sweet, bitter, and sparkling sensations.
Serve and Enjoy
To present our Bourbon Spritz at its best, we garnish and serve immediately for maximum freshness. Place a fresh orange slice on the rim of the glass for a pop of color and citrus aroma, and if using, tuck in a sprig of thyme to infuse subtle earthy notes that enhance the drink’s appeal. Serve right away in the chilled glass, allowing the cocktail’s effervescent fizz and balanced flavors to delight the palate—savor the oaky bourbon warmth mingling with Aperol’s citrus twist and Prosecco’s lively bubbles for an unforgettable, refreshing experience.
Make-Ahead Tips
As we explore ways to simplify your Bourbon Spritz preparation, we recommend focusing on prepping components in advance to save time while preserving the cocktail’s refreshing effervescence and vibrant flavors. This approach ensures our readers can enjoy a perfectly balanced drink without last-minute rush, especially for gatherings.
Key Preparation Strategies
To maintain the cocktail’s crisp, bubbly texture and rich oaky notes from the bourbon, we advise preparing only non-carbonated elements ahead. Here’s how we suggest handling make-ahead steps:
- Prepare the Base Mixture Early: Combine the bourbon and Aperol up to 24 hours in advance. In a clean, sealed jar, mix 2 ounces of bourbon with 1 ounce of Aperol. Store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld, creating a deeper bittersweet citrus profile that enhances the overall drink.
- Chill Ingredients for Optimal Freshness: We always chill Prosecco and soda water separately right before serving to retain their fizz. However, you can pre-chill the base mixture and other components like the bourbon in the fridge for up to 48 hours. This keeps everything crisp and ready, ensuring the cocktail hits that ideal refreshing chill when assembled.
- Garnish Prep in Advance: Slice your orange and prepare thyme sprigs ahead of time for easy access. Use a sharp knife to cut fresh orange slices and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This step adds a burst of citrus aroma without wilting, making your Bourbon Spritz visually appealing and sensorially vibrant.
- Batch Preparation for Groups: If hosting, we suggest scaling up the base mixture for multiple servings. For example, multiply the recipe by the number of drinks needed—say, for 4 servings, use 8 ounces of bourbon and 4 ounces of Aperol—and store it chilled. Add the Prosecco and soda water just before serving to avoid losing effervescence, guaranteeing each glass delivers that signature spritz sparkle.
By following these tips, we help you streamline your routine while keeping the Bourbon Spritz’s lively blend of flavors intact, perfect for effortless entertaining.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted the Bourbon Spritz as a go-to cocktail that’s both simple and sophisticated. It’s our top pick for elevating any occasion with its vibrant flavors and ease.
As we wrap up, we’re sure this recipe will become a staple in your repertoire, inspiring you to mix up batches and share the fun with friends. Cheers to effortless entertaining!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Bourbon Spritz?
A Bourbon Spritz is a refreshing cocktail blending American bourbon with Italian spritz elements, featuring bourbon’s rich, oaky notes mixed with Aperol’s bittersweet citrus, Prosecco’s bubbles, and soda water. It’s perfect for happy hours or gatherings, offering a simple yet sophisticated drink that’s approachable for both bourbon enthusiasts and beginners.
What ingredients are needed for a Bourbon Spritz?
You’ll need 2 ounces of premium bourbon for depth, 1 ounce of Aperol for citrusy bitterness, 3 ounces of dry Prosecco for effervescence, and 1 ounce of chilled soda water for lightness. Garnish with a fresh orange slice and optional thyme sprig. These everyday ingredients create a balanced, vibrant cocktail.
What tools are required to make a Bourbon Spritz?
Essential tools include a jigger or measuring cup for accurate pours, a bar spoon for gentle stirring, and a highball or wine glass for serving. Use an ice bucket to keep it chilled, plus a paring knife and cutting board for garnishes. These basics ensure precision and appealing presentation.
How do you prepare a Bourbon Spritz?
Start by filling a glass with ice, then add 2 ounces of bourbon, 1 ounce of Aperol, 3 ounces of Prosecco, and 1 ounce of soda water. Stir gently to mix without losing bubbles. Garnish with an orange slice and thyme, then serve immediately for the best flavor and freshness.
Can you make a Bourbon Spritz ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the bourbon and Aperol base up to 24 hours in advance and store it chilled. Add Prosecco and soda water just before serving to maintain effervescence. Pre-slice garnishes and chill ingredients separately for ease. This method is ideal for gatherings, ensuring a fresh, balanced cocktail without rush.
Is Bourbon Spritz suitable for beginners?
Absolutely, it’s simple and forgiving with just a few ingredients and steps. Use everyday items and follow basic measurements for success, making it great for mixology novices. The recipe’s versatility allows experimentation while delivering a professional taste.
What makes the Bourbon Spritz refreshing?
The combination of bourbon’s warmth, Aperol’s citrus twist, Prosecco’s fizz, and soda water’s lightness creates a vibrant, effervescent drink. Served over ice with fresh garnishes like orange and thyme, it’s light and balanced, perfect for warm weather or social occasions.