The Lavender Grapefruit Sparkler is a light and refreshing drink made with gin, Lillet Blanc, fresh grapefruit juice, and a hint of lavender syrup. Topped with bubbly prosecco, it’s bright, slightly floral, and easy to enjoy. The mix of citrus and gentle sweetness makes it perfect for a sunny brunch or a cheerful evening toast. It’s simple, flavorful, and feels like a little taste of spring in every sip.
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Tasting Notes
The Lavender Grapefruit Sparkler brings together floral, citrus, and botanical notes in a bright, gently aromatic cocktail. The gin offers herbal depth while the Lillet Blanc adds a soft, wine-like richness. Grapefruit juice cuts through with crisp acidity, balanced by the soothing sweetness of lavender syrup. Prosecco adds a dry finish with a subtle lift, rounding out the drink without overwhelming it. Each sip delivers refreshing citrus upfront, followed by delicate floral hints and a lightly bitter, bubbly conclusion. It’s a balanced, easygoing cocktail that feels fresh and clean with just enough complexity to keep it interesting.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker and strainer to chill and combine the base ingredients thoroughly. A jigger helps measure out each liquid precisely, especially for the smaller quantities like the lavender syrup and Lillet Blanc. Fresh ice is required for both shaking and serving. Use a coupe glass or a Nick & Nora glass to present the drink both offer a stylish, refined shape that suits the cocktail’s structure. A citrus juicer or reamer can be handy if using fresh grapefruit. Lastly, a small knife and cutting board are useful for preparing the grapefruit wheel garnish.
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 0.75 oz Lillet Blanc
- 0.5 oz lavender simple syrup
- 2 oz grapefruit juice
- 3 oz prosecco
- Garnish: grapefruit wheel
Instructions
- Combine the gin, Lillet Blanc, lavender syrup, and grapefruit juice in a cocktail shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake thoroughly for 30–45 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Gently pour prosecco over the top.
- Garnish with a wheel of grapefruit before serving.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice for best flavor and color.
- Chill your coupe glass beforehand to keep the drink colder longer.
- Choose a gin with floral or citrus-forward notes for harmony with the lavender.
- Shake hard to ensure the lavender syrup fully integrates.
- Add prosecco slowly to maintain its fizz and avoid overflow.
- If you prefer a slightly less sweet cocktail, reduce the lavender syrup by 0.25 oz.
- A small sprig of lavender or twist of grapefruit peel can also work as garnish.
- Strain through a fine mesh if pulp-free texture is desired.
- Taste before topping adjust syrup or juice to balance if needed.
- Use dry prosecco for a more balanced, less sweet finish.
When to Serve
The Lavender Grapefruit Sparkler is a great choice for spring and summer gatherings, particularly brunches, bridal showers, or early evening cocktail hours. Its floral and citrus elements make it especially fitting for garden parties and seasonal menus that highlight fresh produce and herbs. The drink also works well as a pre-dinner aperitif, thanks to its balance of bitter, floral, and dry components. Its light body and aromatic profile make it ideal when you want something celebratory and sessionable without being too strong or too sweet. Serve it whenever you want to offer something polished but not overly complex.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Gin:
- Hendrick’s
- Bombay Sapphire
- Tanqueray No. Ten
- Roku Gin
- St. George Botanivore
- Lillet Blanc:
- Lillet (standard and most widely available brand)
- Prosecco:
- La Marca
- Mionetto
- Riondo
- Zonin
- Ruffino
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 0.75 oz Lillet Blanc
- 0.5 oz lavender simple syrup
- 2 oz grapefruit juice
- 3 oz prosecco
- Garnish: grapefruit wheel
Instructions
- Combine the gin, Lillet Blanc, lavender syrup, and grapefruit juice in a cocktail shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake thoroughly for 30–45 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Gently pour prosecco over the top.
- Garnish with a wheel of grapefruit before serving.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice for the most vivid citrus flavor.
- If your lavender syrup is very sweet or concentrated, start with 0.25 oz and adjust to taste.
- Chill the coupe glass ahead of time to keep the drink cooler longer.