- Can I make it ahead?
- The apple base yes, but add the prosecco only when serving, otherwise the carbonation will be lost.
Sparkling Italian Apple & Prosecco Spritz
An elegant autumn-winter cocktail that combines the homely taste of apple with the Italian sparkle of prosecco. Not a classic cider (which is fermented apple wine), but a sophisticated mixed drink where the spiced apple base can be made ahead, and just topped up with sparkling wine when guests arrive.
Ingredients
1
bottle (750ml)
Prosecco (chilled)
1
quart
Apple Juice (unfiltered preferred)
1/4
cup
Sugar (optional, if juice is tart)
1
pc
Lemon Peel (strips)
2
sprigs
Fresh Rosemary
1
pc
Orange Peel (strips)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Pitcher
- Strainer
Instructions
1
✓
In a large pitcher, mix the apple juice with sugar (if using) until dissolved.
Tip: You can help the sugar dissolve by warming a little apple juice, dissolving it, then pouring it back into the cold juice.
2
✓
Drop in the lemon and orange peels (colored part only, white is bitter!) and the rosemary sprigs. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Tip: This "cold maceration" extracts essential oils without cooking the flavors.
3
✓
Strain the apple juice before serving to remove spices.
Tip: This gives you an elegant, clear drink.
4
✓
Top up with cold prosecco. Stir gently once.
Tip: Don't stir wildly, or you'll lose the bubbles (carbonation loss).
5
✓
Serve in glasses, garnished with a fresh rosemary sprig.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 1 bottle (750ml) Prosecco (chilled)
- 1 quart Apple Juice (unfiltered preferred)
- 1/4 cup Sugar (optional, if juice is tart)
- 1 pc Lemon Peel (strips)
- 2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary
- 1 pc Orange Peel (strips)