Ruby Red Spritz

The Ruby Red Spritz is crisp, slightly bitter, and just the right amount of bubbly. Made with grapefruit juice, sparkling wine, and a splash of something bitter like Aperol or Campari, this drink is bright and refreshing without going overboard. It’s great for warm afternoons, brunches, or whenever you want something light with a bit of edge. The citrus gives it a clean finish, while the bubbles keep it fun and easy to drink. If you like a little tang and fizz in your glass, the Ruby Red Spritz is a solid go-to.

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Tasting Notes

The Ruby Red Spritz is crisp, slightly bitter, and full of citrus flavor. Dry gin adds structure with herbal notes, while red grapefruit juice brings a tart, juicy edge. Campari gives the drink its reddish hue and a soft bitterness that fades as the drink opens up. The dry sparkling rosé lightens it all up and adds gentle bubbles. A splash of club soda keeps it extra refreshing. The thyme sprig and grapefruit garnish finish the drink with a subtle herbal aroma. It’s bright, not too sweet, and great for when you want something light with just enough bite.

Equipment and Glassware

You won’t need much to make this spritz. A jigger helps with measuring, and a bar spoon is handy for a light stir. No shaker required just build it in the glass. A wine glass or large spritz glass is perfect since this cocktail has a good amount of liquid and looks best with room for ice and garnish. If you’re using fresh grapefruit juice, a citrus press will help you get the most out of it. The thyme and grapefruit slice give it a clean finish, so go with clear glass to show off the color and bubbles.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz dry gin
• 1 oz red grapefruit juice
• 0.5 oz Campari
• 3 oz dry sparkling rosé (chilled)
• Splash of club soda
• Thyme sprig, for garnish
• Grapefruit slice, for garnish

Instructions

• Fill a large wine glass with ice.
• Pour in the gin, grapefruit juice, and Campari.
• Stir gently to mix.
• Top with sparkling rosé and a splash of club soda.
• Garnish with a sprig of thyme and a grapefruit slice.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh grapefruit juice for a cleaner, more tart flavor.
• Chill your rosé and soda water ahead of time.
• Don’t over-stir—keep those bubbles strong.
• Choose a dry or brut sparkling rosé to balance the sweetness.
• Gently slap the thyme sprig before garnishing to release its aroma.
• If you prefer less bitterness, cut back on the Campari to 0.25 oz.
• Add a splash of lemon juice if your grapefruit is extra sweet.
• Use a clear glass to show off the ruby-pink color.

When to Serve

This Ruby Red Spritz is a solid choice for early evenings, weekend brunch, or anytime you want something light that still has a bit of a kick. It’s great for warmer weather but also fits well at dinner parties where citrus and herbal flavors are on the menu. The bubbles and fresh garnish make it feel just a little dressed-up, even if it’s simple to make. Whether you’re sipping it solo or serving a group, it’s a drink that looks sharp and tastes balanced without being too strong or too sweet.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Gin:

• Bombay Dry Gin (classic and crisp)
• Tanqueray (botanical and balanced)
• Beefeater (affordable and clean)
• Roku Gin (light with a subtle herbal edge)

Sparkling Rosé:

• La Marca Prosecco Rosé (dry and bubbly)
• Mumm Napa Brut Rosé (light and citrusy)
• Chandon Brut Rosé (balanced with bright notes)
• Miraval Rosé Sparkling (for a softer finish)

Campari:

• Campari (only one needed here—no subs necessary)

Similar Cocktails

• Frozen Negroni
• Plum and Thyme Fizz
• Kiwi Coconut Rum Punch
• Tangerine Spritz
• Tamarind Mango Cocktail