Paul Kushner
The Honey Hibiscus Spritz is a stunning, floral cocktail that beautifully blends elegance with a playful, sparkling twist. The glass is first rimmed with sticky honey and delicate hibiscus flowers—optionally dusted with edible glitter for a magical shimmer—setting the stage for a truly eye-catching drink. Inside, honey hibiscus syrup and a splash of elderflower liqueur create a sweet, aromatic base, brightened by the fresh juice of an orange slice. Stirred and layered with ice, the drink is then topped with equal parts crisp champagne and refreshing sparkling grapefruit soda. Finished with a vibrant orange wheel, this spritz is perfect for celebrations, brunches, or anytime you want a cocktail that’s as enchanting as it is refreshing.
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Tasting Notes
The Honey Hibiscus Spritz is a floral, sparkling delight that’s sweet, citrusy, and lightly botanical. Honey hibiscus syrup lends a vibrant, tangy sweetness, while a hint of elderflower liqueur adds elegant floral notes. Fresh orange juice brightens the profile with juicy, sunny citrus. Topped with crisp champagne and sparkling grapefruit soda, the drink is lively, lightly tart, and beautifully balanced. A honey-and-hibiscus rim adds visual and aromatic allure, with optional edible glitter for an extra magical touch. Garnished with a fresh orange wheel, this spritz is a radiant, festive cocktail that’s as lovely to sip as it is to behold.
Equipment and Glassware
Crafting this spritz requires just a few simple tools and attention to presentation. Use a jigger for precise measurements and a bar spoon for stirring gently. A small plate and pastry brush will help rim the glass with honey and crushed hibiscus flowers (and edible glitter if desired). Serve in a large wine glass or stemmed spritz glass to accommodate ice and allow the bubbles and garnishes to shine. A citrus press or handheld juicer helps extract fresh orange juice quickly and cleanly. A garnish pick can hold the orange wheel stylishly in place.
Ingredients
- 1 oz honey hibiscus syrup
- 0.5 oz elderflower liqueur
- Juice from one orange slice
- Champagne (to top)
- Sparkling grapefruit soda (to top)
- Optional: edible glitter for rim
- Garnish: orange wheel
Instructions
- Prepare the Rim: Lightly brush the side of a spritz or wine glass with honey and press into dried hibiscus flowers. Add edible glitter if desired for an extra sparkle.
- Build: Add honey hibiscus syrup, elderflower liqueur, and juice from one orange slice into the glass. Stir to combine.
- Add Ice: Fill the glass with ice.
- Top: Add equal parts champagne and sparkling grapefruit soda to fill the glass. Stir gently to mix.
- Garnish: Finish with an orange wheel.
Pro Tips
- Use chilled champagne and sparkling soda to maintain crisp, lively bubbles without over-diluting the drink.
- For a vibrant rim, crush dried hibiscus petals finely and mix with a touch of edible glitter.
- Use a dry champagne to balance the syrup’s sweetness, or a prosecco if you prefer a slightly fruitier profile.
- Always stir gently after topping with bubbles to maintain effervescence.
- Want to intensify the floral notes? Add a tiny spritz of orange blossom water over the top before serving.
- Freeze edible flowers into ice cubes for an even more stunning visual effect.
When to Serve
The Honey Hibiscus Spritz is perfect for festive celebrations, weddings, brunches, bridal showers, garden parties, or any occasion where elegance and sparkle are key. Its colorful presentation and refreshing flavor profile make it ideal for spring and summer gatherings, but its festive bubbles also make it a glamorous choice for New Year’s Eve or anniversary toasts. Serve it whenever you want a cocktail that’s equal parts refreshing, beautiful, and celebratory—a true showstopper for special moments.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- For champagne, opt for a dry, crisp bottle like Veuve Clicquot, Mumm Napa Brut, or Piper-Heidsieck.
- For elderflower liqueur, St-Germain remains the gold standard, offering a smooth, floral sweetness.
- Choose a high-quality sparkling grapefruit soda like Fever-Tree Sparkling Pink Grapefruit or Q Grapefruit for vibrant citrus notes.
- Use local honey and culinary-grade dried hibiscus flowers for rimming.
- If using edible glitter, select food-safe brands like Bakers Party Shop or Fancy Sprinkles to ensure safe, stunning sparkle.
Similar Cocktails
Equipment
- Small plate (for rimming)
Ingredients
- 1 oz honey hibiscus syrup
- 0.5 oz elderflower liqueur
- Juice from one orange slice
- Champagne to top
- Sparkling grapefruit soda to top
- Garnish: orange wheel
- Optional: edible glitter for rim
Instructions
- Prepare the Rim: Lightly brush the side of a spritz or wine glass with honey and press into dried hibiscus flowers. Add edible glitter if desired for an extra sparkle.
- Build: Add honey hibiscus syrup, elderflower liqueur, and juice from one orange slice into the glass. Stir to combine.
- Add Ice: Fill the glass with ice.
- Top: Add equal parts champagne and sparkling grapefruit soda to fill the glass. Stir gently to mix.
- Garnish: Finish with an orange wheel.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use chilled champagne and soda water to maintain the fizz.
- Adjust the honey hibiscus syrup depending on how sweet you prefer your spritz.
- For a lighter version, use more sparkling soda than champagne.
