Festive Clementine Champagne Spritz
Introduction
This bright, bubbly Festive Clementine Champagne Spritz brings holiday sparkle to every sip. Fresh clementine juice mingles with sophisticated Champagne for a refreshingly sweet, citrus-kissed cocktail that’s simple to make and stunning to serve. Perfect for Christmas gatherings, toasts, and cozy celebrations.
Ingredients
- 3-4 clementines (for fresh juice)
- 1 bottle (750 ml) brut Champagne or dry sparkling wine
- 2 oz vodka (optional)
- 1 oz simple syrup
- Clementine wheels or twists (for garnish)
- Ice
Instructions
- Juice the clementines to yield about 6 oz of fresh juice.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add clementine juice, vodka (if using), and simple syrup. Shake well for 10-15 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into Champagne flutes, filling each about halfway.
- Top with chilled brut Champagne or dry sparkling wine.
- Gently stir and garnish with a clementine wheel or twist.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Chill First: Refrigerate Champagne and clementines beforehand; a colder base keeps the spritz crisp and bubbly.
- Go Fresh: Use fresh-squeezed clementine juice for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Control Bubbles: Pour Champagne slowly down the side of the glass to preserve effervescence.
- Batch It: For parties, mix juice, vodka, and simple syrup ahead (kept chilled), then top with Champagne per glass.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I use oranges instead? A: Yes. Oranges work, though the flavor will be less delicate and slightly more tart.
- Q: What if I don’t have simple syrup? A: Stir 1 part sugar into 1 part warm water until dissolved; cool before use.
- Q: How do I make it alcohol-free? A: Skip the vodka and use alcohol-free sparkling wine or sparkling water.