Bitter Citrus Spritz

The Bitter Citrus Spritz is a crisp, low-ABV cocktail that blends the bold character of amaro with the refreshing lift of prosecco and soda water. Its balance of herbal bitterness and citrus brightness makes it a standout choice for warm afternoons or pre-dinner sipping. Served over ice with an aromatic garnish, this spritz is both simple to build and easy to enjoy, offering complexity without being overpowering.

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Tasting Notes

The Bitter Citrus Spritz offers a crisp, herbaceous profile with a dry finish. The amaro lays the foundation with complex notes of citrus peel, spice, and gentle bitterness, giving the drink its bold character. Prosecco adds bright acidity and a hint of fruitiness, which tempers the amaro’s intensity without overwhelming it. A splash of soda water keeps the texture light and drinkable. Garnished with mint and a lemon twist, each sip brings a clean, layered taste that shifts between sharp citrus and aromatic herbs. Refreshing, straightforward, and not too sweet.

Equipment and Glassware

All you need to assemble this cocktail is a wine glass, a bar spoon, and a jigger. The wine glass offers enough room for ice, liquid, and garnish, while its shape helps concentrate the aromas from the amaro and garnish. A jigger ensures accurate proportions, especially for the amaro, which has a strong flavor that benefits from balance. If you’d like to batch this for guests, a large mixing pitcher can replace the wine glass during the prep phase. A peeler will also help you get a clean lemon twist.

Ingredients

• 2 oz amaro
• 3 oz chilled prosecco
• 1 oz chilled soda water
• Garnish: mint sprig and lemon twist

Instructions

• Fill a large wine glass with ice.
• Pour in the amaro, followed by the prosecco and soda water.
• Stir briefly to mix without losing carbonation.
• Garnish with a mint sprig and a twist of lemon.

Pro Tips

• Use large ice cubes to reduce dilution.
• Chill all ingredients beforehand for best texture and balance.
• Express the lemon twist over the drink before adding it for extra aroma.
• Gently slap the mint sprig before garnishing to release its oils.
• Use a neutral or citrus-forward amaro for a lighter profile.
• Don’t over-stir preserve the bubbles from the prosecco and soda water.
• Use filtered soda water for a cleaner finish.
• Swap lemon twist for orange if using a spicier amaro.
• If batching, mix amaro and prosecco first and top with soda when serving.
• Garnish right before serving to keep the mint fresh and aromatic.

When to Serve

The Bitter Citrus Spritz is a solid choice for afternoon drinks, brunch gatherings, or as a pre-dinner aperitif. Its lower alcohol content and dry edge make it suitable for long summer lunches or laid-back patio settings. This cocktail is also ideal when you want something with structure that won’t overpower food. Offer it before a Mediterranean meal, with light charcuterie, or during a weekend gathering where citrus and herbs complement the atmosphere. It’s best enjoyed outdoors, over conversation, and under warm weather.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Amaro:
  • Aperol
  • Campari
  • Contratto Bitter
  • Cappelletti
  • Select Aperitivo
  • Luxardo Bitter Bianco
• Prosecco:
  • La Marca
  • Mionetto
  • Ruffino
  • Zardetto
  • Bisol

Similar Cocktails

• Cynar Spritz
• Lavender Grapefruit Sparkler
• Calamansi Wine Spritzer
• Beet the Heat
• Averna Limonata