Cherry Blossom Spritz

Spring always makes me crave lighter cocktails. As soon as the weather starts to warm up and the days feel longer, I want something crisp, refreshing, and easy to sip outside. That is exactly where this Cherry Blossom Spritz comes in. It is bright, bubbly, and beautifully simple. The first time I made this, it was for a small brunch on the patio. I wanted something elegant but not overly complicated.

The mix of gin and cherry shrub, topped with soda water, created a drink that felt fresh and balanced. I love this because it looks delicate, yet it has just enough depth to keep it interesting. If you enjoy gin cocktails with a little sparkle, this spritz is a great addition to your lineup. It is easy to make, light on the palate, and perfect for daytime events, garden parties, or casual evenings when you want something refreshing without too much effort.

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Why You’ll Love This

The Cherry Blossom Spritz is a cocktail that feels special without being heavy. It has the botanical notes of gin, the sweet and tangy kick of cherry shrub, and the clean finish of soda water.

Here is why this drink stands out:

• Light and refreshing which makes it ideal for warm weather
• Simple ingredient list with minimal prep required
• Balanced sweet and tart flavor from the cherry shrub
• Low effort but elegant presentation
• Easy to customize based on your taste

What makes this spritz so appealing is how easy it is to sip. It does not overpower your palate, and it pairs well with a variety of foods and occasions.

Ingredients

This recipe works because each ingredient has a clear purpose. The gin provides structure, the cherry shrub adds complexity, and soda water keeps everything bright and lively.

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz cherry shrub
• soda water to top
• Cherry for garnish

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

The type of gin you use will influence the final taste. Since this drink is simple, choose a gin with flavors you enjoy.

Here are some great options:

• Tanqueray London Dry for a crisp, classic gin flavor
• Bombay Sapphire for softer botanical notes
• Hendrick’s Gin if you enjoy a subtle floral touch
• Empress 1908 Gin for a slightly more aromatic profile
• A local craft gin to highlight regional botanicals

If you cannot find cherry shrub, you can substitute cherry syrup with a small splash of apple cider vinegar to mimic the tang. For a lighter option, reduce the gin slightly and add more soda water.

Equipment and Glassware

You do not need a full bar setup to make this cocktail, which makes it perfect for casual entertaining.

You will need:

• Mixing Glass
• Jigger
• Spoon
• Collins Glass

A large wine glass works beautifully because it gives the drink space and allows the bubbles to rise. A highball glass also works well if that is what you have at home.

How to Make It

This Cherry Blossom Spritz is quick and easy. The key is stirring gently so you keep the drink crisp and refreshing.

1. In a mixing glass filled with crushed ice, combine the gin and cherry shrub.
2. Stir gently to blend the flavors.
3. Pour the mixture into a glass, then top with soda water for a refreshing finish.
4. Garnish with a cherry or two for a touch of elegance.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Keep the stir light so you maintain the texture of the soda water when you top it off.

Pro Tips

Even a simple spritz benefits from a few thoughtful touches.

• Use chilled soda water for maximum refreshment
• Taste your shrub first since sweetness levels can vary
• Adjust the ratio if you prefer it more tart or more bubbly
• Use quality ice to slow dilution
• Serve immediately to keep the carbonation lively
• Add garnish just before serving for the best appearance
• Choose a balanced gin that does not overpower the cherry

Once you get comfortable with the base recipe, you can tweak it slightly to match your mood or the season.

Variations

This spritz is very flexible, which makes it fun to personalize.

Try these ideas:

• Rosé Spritz Add a splash of chilled rosé before topping with soda
• Floral Version Add a small splash of elderflower liqueur
• Citrus Twist Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice
• Non alcoholic option Replace gin with tonic water or a botanical non alcoholic spirit
• Berry Blend Mix in a few muddled raspberries

Each version keeps that light and bubbly feel while offering something new.

When to Serve and Pairings

The Cherry Blossom Spritz fits beautifully into daytime gatherings and relaxed events.

It works well for:

• Spring brunches
• Bridal showers
• Garden parties
• Afternoon gatherings
• Light dinner parties

For food pairings, consider dishes that complement its fresh profile:

• Goat cheese crostini
• Grilled chicken salad
• Fresh fruit platters
• Light pasta dishes
• Lemon shortbread cookies

This cocktail also pairs nicely with other light gin cocktails if you are offering a small drink menu.

Storage and Serving Notes

This drink is best made fresh because the soda water loses carbonation over time. However, you can prepare parts ahead of time.

Mix the gin and cherry shrub and store in the refrigerator for several hours. When ready to serve, pour over ice and top with soda water.

Avoid batching with soda included, as it will go flat.

FAQs

If you are new to using shrubs in cocktails, here are some helpful answers.

What is a cherry shrub?
It is a fruit based syrup made with vinegar, sugar, and cherries. It adds both sweetness and acidity.

Can I use cherry juice instead?
You can, but the flavor will be less complex. Adding a small splash of vinegar can help mimic the shrub’s tang.

Is this cocktail strong?
It is moderate in strength, but the soda water keeps it light and easy to sip.

Can I use tonic water instead of soda water?
Yes, but it will add sweetness and a slight bitterness.

What glass works best?
A wine glass or highball glass works well and shows off the drink’s color and bubbles.

More Cocktails to Try

If you enjoy light and refreshing gin cocktails like this Cherry Blossom Spritz, here are a few more to try:

• Gin-Ger Grapefruit Fizz
• Limoncello Gin Fizz
• Apricot Honey Gin Sour
• Cucumber Mint Gin Fizz
• Gin Basil Spritz