Honeydew Basil Spritz is fresh, light, and a little floral with just the right touch of fizz. Honeydew juice gives it a soft, mellow sweetness, while fresh basil adds a crisp, garden-like note. St-Germain brings in gentle elderflower flavor, balanced by the tartness of lemon juice. A splash of Prosecco and sparkling water gives it that bubbly lift, making it a solid pick for warm afternoons or laid-back get-togethers. It’s clean, easy to drink, and has just enough complexity to keep it interesting without overcomplicating things. Serve over ice with a basil leaf for a refreshing finish.

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Tasting Notes

This drink is fresh, floral, and easy to sip. The honeydew juice gives it a soft, mellow sweetness that’s not overpowering. Fresh basil adds a bright herbal note that lifts the flavor without taking over. Elderflower liqueur brings a gentle floral finish, while lemon juice cuts through with a light citrus edge. Prosecco adds a dry sparkle that keeps everything crisp, and the splash of sparkling water rounds it out. You get soft fruit, herbs, and bubbles in one drink. It’s light, balanced, and great for when you want something refreshing without too much fuss.

Equipment and Glassware

To make this drink, you’ll need a shaker or mixing glass and a strainer. Muddle the basil gently to release the flavor don’t shred it. A jigger helps measure each part. You can juice honeydew with a blender and fine mesh strainer if you’re working with fresh melon. Serve it in a wine glass or a tall spritz glass over ice. The wider bowl of a wine glass gives room for the bubbles and the aroma from the basil. If you want to get fancy, a cocktail pick with melon or a basil sprig works well as a garnish.

Ingredients

2 oz honeydew juice
1 oz Elderflower liqueur
0.5 oz lemon juice
4 oz Prosecco
1 oz sparkling water
Handful of fresh basil leaves
Garnish: basil sprig or thin slice of honeydew

Instructions

In a wine glass, gently muddle the basil with honeydew juice and lemon juice.
Add the elderflower liqueur and a few ice cubes.
Top with Prosecco and sparkling water.
Gently stir and garnish with honeydew slice or basil sprig.

Pro Tips

Use ripe honeydew for better juice—blend and strain for best results.
Don’t over-muddle basil or it’ll taste bitter.
Chill your glassware and ingredients to keep it cold without too much ice.
Use a dry Prosecco or Brut sparkling wine to balance the sweetness.
Add more lemon juice if you want extra tartness.
Try flavored sparkling water (like cucumber or lemon) for a twist.
Make a batch of honeydew juice ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
Skip the shake and stir everything in the glass for a simpler version.

When to Serve

The Honeydew Basil Spritz is great for sunny days, relaxed brunches, or any time you want a light cocktail that’s more about flavor than strength. It fits well with summer menus, poolside hangs, or as a starter at dinner parties. Because it’s easy to scale up, it also works for showers, garden parties, or picnics. It’s a soft drink that still feels special, with just enough detail to catch someone’s attention. Whether you’re serving one or making a few, it keeps things simple without being boring.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

St-Germain (the standard and most popular choice)
Thatcher’s Elderflower (lighter, more affordable option)
La Marca Prosecco (crisp and easy to find)
Mionetto Brut (dry and refreshing)
Ruffino Prosecco (balanced and not too sweet)
Chandon Brut (if you prefer sparkling wine over Prosecco)
Topo Chico (great bubbles)
San Pellegrino (clean and light)
Spindrift (for a subtle hint of flavor)

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