The Italicus Summer Spritz is light, floral, and just a little spicy. Italicus gives the drink its signature citrus and rose flavor, while fresh watermelon juice adds a juicy, summery twist. A few drops of Calabrian chile tincture bring in a soft heat that sneaks up without overpowering. Sparkling rosé on top adds brightness, bubbles, and a little berry finish. It’s refreshing, balanced, and great for sipping outdoors when the weather’s warm. Inspired by punchdrink.com.

Tasting Notes

This Italicus Summer Spritz is light and floral with a gentle kick from the Calabrian chile tincture. Italicus brings soft citrus and herbal notes that pair well with the fresh watermelon juice. The sparkling rosé adds bubbles and a dry finish, balancing out the sweetness of the fruit. The chile isn’t overpowering it just gives the drink a little warmth on the back end. Overall, it’s crisp, bright, and refreshing with a slightly spicy edge that keeps things interesting.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a jigger, shaker (optional), bar spoon, and a wine or spritz glass. A jigger helps measure your liquids precisely, especially when using drops of tincture. If your watermelon juice is fresh, a shaker with ice can help chill and mix it more evenly with Italicus before topping with wine. A spritz or large wine glass gives room for ice and makes it easier to layer the sparkling rosé. Add a straw or long spoon if you’re serving in a larger glass.

Ingredients

2 oz Italicus
4 drops Calabrian chile tincture
1 oz watermelon juice
Sparkling rosé wine, to top
Watermelon slice, for garnish

Instructions

Add Italicus, chile tincture, and watermelon juice into your serving glass.
Add ice and stir gently to chill and combine.
Top with sparkling rosé.
Stir to mix.
Garnish with a fresh watermelon slice.

Pro Tips

Use chilled watermelon juice for better balance.
Drop the chile tincture directly into the glass not the shaker.
Add ice last to avoid splashing when pouring rosé.
Choose a dry sparkling rosé to avoid too much sweetness.
If fresh watermelon isn’t available, try cold-pressed juice.
Stir gently after adding rosé to keep the bubbles.
Use a large slice of watermelon for a more visual garnish.
Try a pinch of salt on the watermelon slice for contrast.

When to Serve

This Italicus Summer Spritz is a warm-weather drink through and through. Serve it at brunch, summer happy hours, or patio parties. It also works great as a welcome drink at a gathering easy to prep and looks great in the glass. It’s a nice change from a typical spritz, with more personality thanks to the chile and watermelon. It’s best cold and fresh, poured just before serving.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Italicus:

Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto (only one you’ll need here)

Sparkling Rosé:

La Marca Sparkling Rosé (crisp and dry)
Mionetto Rosé Extra Dry (bright and not too sweet)
Gérard Bertrand Côte des Roses (adds citrus edge)

Chile Tincture:

Homemade Calabrian chile tincture (vodka + dried chiles)
Scrappy’s Firewater (if you want more heat)

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