The Ritz

The Ritz is a cocktail that draws inspiration from the classic elegance of historic hotel bars, offering a refined drink with a touch of sparkle. This recipe blends the rich, smooth depth of cognac with the brightness of fresh citrus, creating a balanced flavor that feels both timeless and refreshing. Topped with crisp sparkling wine, it has just the right amount of fizz to make any occasion feel special. Whether served at a formal celebration, a holiday gathering, or simply as a treat at home, The Ritz delivers a smooth, uplifting sip that is classic in style yet pleasantly unique.

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Tasting Notes

The Ritz is light, citrusy, and refined, offering a smooth interplay of fruit, oak, and sparkle. Cognac brings depth and warmth, while triple sec and maraschino liqueur layer in subtle orange and cherry tones. Lemon juice brightens the mix with fresh acidity. Sparkling wine adds a crisp, dry finish that lifts the drink and gives it a celebratory edge. The orange twist ties it all together with fresh aroma. It’s balanced and easy-drinking, with a delicate flavor structure that stays light on the palate while offering a polished feel from start to finish.

Equipment and Glassware

To make The Ritz, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for chilling the base ingredients. A jigger ensures accurate measurements of each component. Use a Hawthorne strainer or fine mesh strainer for a clean pour into your glass. A peeler or paring knife is useful for making the orange twist. Serve the drink in a coupe glass, which helps maintain the sparkling wine’s bubbles while presenting the cocktail elegantly. If possible, chill the coupe beforehand to keep the drink crisp. A bar spoon is optional for adjusting garnish or gently blending after topping with sparkling wine.

Ingredients

• 1 oz cognac
• 0.5 oz triple sec
• 0.25 oz maraschino liqueur
• 0.25 oz lemon juice
• 2 oz sparkling wine
• Garnish: orange twist

Instructions

• Combine cognac, triple sec, maraschino liqueur, and lemon juice in a shaker with ice.
• Shake briefly to chill and mix.
• Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
• Gently pour in the sparkling wine.
• Express the orange twist over the drink to release the oils, then drop it in as garnish.

Pro Tips

• Chill your sparkling wine and glass ahead of time for best results.
• Shake lightly to chill without over-diluting the citrus and spirits.
• Use a dry sparkling wine to balance the liqueurs’ sweetness.
• Express the orange twist over the glass to release fresh oils.
• Use a fine mesh strainer for a smooth, pulp-free finish.
• Pour sparkling wine slowly to avoid foam overflow.
• Adjust lemon juice slightly if using a sweeter triple sec or liqueur.

When to Serve

The Ritz is an ideal choice for celebratory moments, toasts, or pre-dinner drinks. Its sparkling finish and layered citrus notes make it perfect for festive gatherings, anniversaries, or holiday occasions. With its moderate strength and dry, refreshing profile, it also works well as an aperitif. Serve it when you want something crisp and bright but with more character than a simple flute of bubbles. Whether enjoyed at a formal event or during a quiet evening in, it’s a cocktail that fits well into any polished occasion.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Cognac:

• Hennessy VS
• Courvoisier VS
• Rémy Martin VSOP

Triple Sec:

• Cointreau
• Combier
• Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao

Maraschino Liqueur:

• Luxardo
• Maraska

Sparkling Wine:

• Mumm Napa Brut
• La Marca Prosecco
• Roederer Estate Brut

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