The Kiwi Apple Fizz is a refreshing cocktail that combines the bold character of bourbon with the crisp, fruity flavors of kiwi and apple. Fresh kiwi adds a lively tang, while sparkling apple wine brings light bubbles and a clean finish that makes the drink easy to sip. The smooth richness of bourbon balances the bright fruit, creating a cocktail that is both playful and satisfying. Served chilled, it is colorful, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. Whether enjoyed on a late summer evening, during a relaxed weekend brunch, or at a casual gathering, the Kiwi Apple Fizz always delights.
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Tasting Notes
The Kiwi Apple Fizz is light, bright, and fruit-forward with a crisp finish. Bourbon lends a warm, slightly smoky base that plays off the tartness of fresh kiwi and lemon. The sparkling apple wine introduces a lively burst of bubbles and a crisp, orchard-fresh aroma. The lemon juice helps keep the drink from feeling too sweet, while the kiwi brings a tropical, slightly tangy edge. Together, these flavors create a refreshing balance of richness and acidity, making this cocktail feel both cooling and invigorating. A slice of kiwi on top adds a fragrant, juicy accent to every sip.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker and a Hawthorne strainer for this recipe. A citrus juicer is helpful for fresh lemon juice, and a jigger ensures accurate measurements. If making fresh kiwi juice, use a blender and fine mesh strainer to separate the pulp. A Collins glass is ideal, providing room for both the base cocktail and sparkling wine topper. Chilling your glassware beforehand will help keep the fizz crisp and cold longer. A long spoon or cocktail stirrer is useful for a gentle swirl after topping with sparkling wine.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1.5 oz kiwi juice
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 4 oz sparkling apple wine
- Garnish: sliced kiwi
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add the bourbon, kiwi juice, and lemon juice.
- Shake until chilled.
- Strain into a Collins glass.
- Top with sparkling apple wine.
- Garnish with a slice of kiwi.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly juiced kiwi for the most flavor and aroma.
- Strain the kiwi juice to remove seeds and pulp for a smoother texture.
- Chill all ingredients ahead of time to maintain fizz.
- Avoid over-stirring after adding sparkling wine to preserve bubbles.
- Choose a dry or semi-dry sparkling apple wine to balance the sweetness of the fruit.
- For a more tart twist, add a splash of green apple juice.
- Garnish with a fan of thin kiwi slices for a polished look.
- Consider using a kiwi-lime wheel for a more vibrant presentation.
When to Serve
The Kiwi Apple Fizz works well for spring and summer gatherings, especially during the daytime. It’s a refreshing choice for brunches, outdoor picnics, or celebratory lunches thanks to its bubbly texture and fruit-forward profile. The addition of sparkling wine makes it suitable for casual toasts or lighter cocktail hours. Its lower ABV from the fizz topper makes it more sessionable, perfect for warm weather sipping without being too strong. It also fits nicely as a welcome drink or aperitif during the start of an event or early evening social.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Bourbon
- Maker’s Mark
- Elijah Craig Small Batch
- Four Roses Small Batch
- Sparkling Apple Wine
- Aval Cidre
- Domaine Dupont Cidre Brut
- Eden Sparkling Semi-Dry
Similar Cocktails
- Red Sky Sour
- Rhubarb Bourbon Sour
- Pineapple Bourbon Honey Sour
- Raspberry Bourbon Fizz
- Berry Bourbon Smash
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1.5 oz kiwi juice
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 4 oz sparkling apple wine
- Garnish: sliced kiwi
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add the bourbon, kiwi juice, and lemon juice.
- Shake until chilled.
- Strain into a Collins glass.
- Top with sparkling apple wine.
- Garnish with a slice of kiwi.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use freshly pressed kiwi juice if possible for better flavor and color.
- Chill the sparkling apple wine ahead of time to keep the cocktail crisp and cold.
- Add a few kiwi seeds or a thin slice inside the glass for a visual touch.