The Plum and Thyme Fizz is a refreshing mix of sweet, tart, and herbal flavors. Vodka lays down a clean base, while lemon juice adds a bright citrus edge. The homemade plum and thyme simple syrup brings in fruity richness with a subtle herbal note that makes this drink stand out. Club soda finishes it off with a light fizz, keeping it crisp and easy to sip. It’s a great pick for late summer or early fall, but honestly works any time you want something a little different. Serve it over ice with a slice of plum and a sprig of thyme for a clean finish.
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Tasting Notes
This Plum and Thyme Fizz is refreshing with a soft fruit flavor and a hint of earthiness from the thyme. The plum adds a mellow sweetness with a slightly tart edge, while the lemon juice brightens things up. Vodka gives the drink structure without overpowering the other ingredients. The thyme syrup adds just a hint of herbal depth that makes it stand out without being too strong. Topped with club soda, it finishes crisp and light. The plum slice and thyme sprig bring a fresh scent and a clean look, making it a solid pick for anyone who likes a smooth, easygoing drink.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a shaker, jigger, bar spoon, and a fine strainer. A rocks glass or Collins glass works best tall enough for club soda, but compact enough to show off the color. A citrus juicer will help with the lemon, and a small saucepan is needed if you’re making your own syrup. A cocktail pick is optional but useful if you want to keep the plum garnish in place. Chill the glass before serving for best results. A muddler isn’t needed here since the syrup handles the flavor from the thyme and plum.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- ¾ oz lemon juice
- 1 oz plum and thyme simple syrup
- Club soda, to top
- Garnish: plum slice and thyme sprig
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add vodka, lemon juice, and the plum-thyme syrup.
- Shake for about 10–15 seconds until chilled.
- Strain into a glass filled with ice.
- Top with club soda and give it a gentle stir.
- Garnish with a fresh slice of plum and a sprig of thyme.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice it balances the drink better than bottled.
- When making the syrup, simmer sliced plums and a few thyme sprigs with equal parts sugar and water.
- Strain and cool before using. You can adjust sweetness by using more or less syrup.
- Use chilled soda water and pour it slowly to keep the bubbles from going flat.
- If you want a deeper color, muddle a small piece of plum in the shaker before adding other ingredients.
- Always taste before serving and adjust the lemon or syrup to your liking.
- Chill everything for a smoother result.
When to Serve
This Plum and Thyme Fizz cocktail works well for brunch, small dinners, or anytime you want something refreshing but not too sweet. It fits well in early evening settings or as a welcome drink for guests. Because it’s not heavy, it pairs nicely with salads, light starters, or anything with herbs or grilled fruit. It also makes a good option when you want to offer a cocktail that feels fresh but still has some depth. Serve it cold, with the garnishes in place, and it’s sure to stand out without needing any extras.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Choose a vodka that’s smooth and neutral. Tito’s, Ketel One, or Absolut all work well.
- For the syrup, use ripe plums and fresh thyme avoid dried thyme, which can be too strong or bitter.
- Club soda should be unflavored and very cold Topo Chico and Q Mixers both give good fizz.
- Use fresh lemon juice and strain it to avoid pulp.
- The plum garnish should be thinly sliced and firm enough to hold its shape.
- Thyme sprigs should be bright green and freshly cut for the cleanest look and best aroma.
Similar Cocktails
- Aperol Lemon Drop
- Cherry Vanilla Vodka Fizz
- Blackberry Sage Collins
- Kiwi Lemonade Cooler
- Blue Long Island Iced Tea
Equipment
- Spoon (for stirring)
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- ¾ oz lemon juice
- 1 oz plum and thyme simple syrup
- Club soda to top
- Garnish: plum slice and thyme sprig
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add vodka, lemon juice, and the plum-thyme syrup.
- Shake for about 10–15 seconds until chilled.
- Strain into a glass filled with ice.
- Top with club soda and give it a gentle stir.
- Garnish with a fresh slice of plum and a sprig of thyme.
Notes
Pro Tips
- For the syrup: simmer equal parts sugar and water with chopped fresh plums and thyme sprigs until the plums break down. Strain and cool.
- If your plums are very sweet, you can reduce the syrup slightly to keep things balanced.
- Use chilled club soda to keep the fizz sharp and refreshing.