Paul Kushner
The Raspberry Red Wine Spritz is a fruity, bubbly twist on a classic wine cocktail. It blends the bold flavor of red wine with the tart sweetness of raspberries and a splash of soda water for a light, refreshing finish. You can muddle fresh raspberries or use raspberry syrup, depending on how sweet you like it. Served over ice with a citrus slice or extra berries, it’s great for relaxed evenings, outdoor dinners, or anytime you want a red wine drink that’s not too heavy. It’s smooth, easy to sip, and just the right mix of bold and bright.
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Tasting Notes
The Raspberry Red Wine Spritz is a vibrant, fruity cocktail that blends the bold depth of red wine with the zesty sparkle of limoncello seltzer. Fresh muddled raspberries add natural sweetness and rich berry flavor, while a couple dashes of orange bitters introduce a subtle citrusy complexity. The limoncello seltzer brings lively effervescence and bright lemon zest, creating a spritzer that’s both refreshing and refined. Garnished with a fragrant rosemary sprig and whole raspberries, this drink delivers a delightful balance of fruity, herbal, and citrus notes in each sip—perfect for late afternoons, dinner parties, or relaxed celebrations.
Equipment and Glassware
This spritz is simple to prepare with just a few essentials. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to crush the fresh raspberries and release their vibrant juice. A jigger helps measure the wine and seltzer accurately for perfect balance. Serve in a stemless wine glass or large rocks glass to accommodate ice and bubbles. A bar spoon is ideal for stirring gently without flattening the fizz. A garnish pick or cocktail skewer adds a polished touch when presenting the rosemary and berries. Chill your glass in advance for an extra-refreshing finish.
Ingredients
- 2 oz red wine (dry or medium-bodied)
- 3 oz limoncello seltzer (chilled)
- Handful of fresh raspberries
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- Garnish: rosemary sprig and raspberries
Instructions
- Muddle: In the bottom of a glass, muddle the raspberries until they release their juice.
- Add Ingredients: Fill the glass with ice, then add the red wine and orange bitters.
- Top: Pour in the chilled limoncello seltzer and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish: Add a sprig of rosemary for a fragrant, elegant touch.
Pro Tips
- Choose a red wine that’s fruity but not overly tannic—Pinot Noir, Garnacha, or Merlot work wonderfully.
- Chill all ingredients beforehand to preserve the spritzer’s refreshment without watering it down.
- Muddle raspberries gently to avoid bitterness from the seeds.
- If limoncello seltzer isn’t available, mix sparkling water with a splash of limoncello liqueur for a DIY version.
- Lightly smack the rosemary sprig before garnishing to release its aromatic oils.
- For extra flair, rim the glass with lemon sugar or freeze berries into ice cubes for a decorative and flavorful twist.
When to Serve
The Raspberry Red Wine Spritz is perfect for spring and summer evenings, weekend brunches, or early evening aperitifs. Its balance of bold red wine and zesty bubbles makes it an ideal starter for dinner parties, patio sipping, or festive gatherings. The vibrant color and fruity aroma also make it a stylish addition to bridal showers, girls’ nights, or romantic occasions. Serve it when you want something refreshing yet sophisticated—easy to drink, low-effort to make, and big on flavor and charm.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- For wine, opt for a fruit-forward but dry red such as Meiomi Pinot Noir, La Vieille Ferme Rouge, or Bogle Merlot.
- For limoncello seltzer, brands like Sanpellegrino Momenti, Spindrift Lemon, or Trader Joe’s Limoncello Soda offer bright lemon flavor and gentle fizz.
- If using a limoncello liqueur and soda water combo, Caravella, Luxardo, or Pallini Limoncello provide excellent lemon essence.
- For bitters, try Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6 or Fee Brothers Orange Bitters.
- Fresh rosemary and plump raspberries complete this aromatic, eye-catching cocktail.
Similar Cocktails
- Chambord Limoncello Spritz
- Limoncello Hugo Spritz
- Limoncello Grape Spritz
- Frozen Raspberry Limoncello
- Raspberry Aperol Spritz
Equipment
- Rocks Glass if preferred
Ingredients
- 2 oz red wine dry or medium-bodied
- 3 oz limoncello seltzer chilled
- Handful of fresh raspberries
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- Garnish: rosemary sprig and raspberries.
Instructions
- Muddle: In the bottom of a glass, muddle the raspberries until they release their juice.
- Add Ingredients: Fill the glass with ice, then add the red wine and orange bitters.
- Top: Pour in the chilled limoncello seltzer and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish: Add a sprig of rosemary for a fragrant, elegant touch.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use a fruit-forward red wine like Pinot Noir or Grenache for a smooth balance.
- For a stronger citrus note, add a splash of fresh lemon juice.
- Lightly roll the rosemary between your palms before garnishing to release aroma.
