When the sun’s out and the breeze is just right, there’s nothing quite like a crisp, bubbly spritzer to set the tone. Light on alcohol, heavy on refreshment, and endlessly customizable, summer spritzers are the low-effort, high-vibe cocktails we keep coming back to.
Whether you're sipping poolside, hosting brunch, or just winding down after a long day, the spritzer is your invitation to slow down and savor something simple. Here’s your guide to the season’s most refreshing summer spritzer recipes—and the best way to serve them up in style.
What Is a Spritzer, Exactly?
At its core, a spritzer is a chilled, fizzy drink that usually combines wine or a spirit with something bubbly like soda water, tonic, or prosecco. They're light, hydrating (relatively speaking), and perfect for day drinking or anyone looking for something refreshing without the punch of a full-strength cocktail.
Classic spritzers are built in the glass, so presentation matters. Think stemmed wine glasses, tall tumblers, or wide bowls that show off citrus wheels, ice cubes, and colorful garnishes.
1. White Wine Citrus Spritzer
A crowd-pleaser for any patio moment.
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3 oz dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
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2 oz club soda or sparkling water
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1 oz fresh orange juice
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Orange slice + mint for garnish
How to Serve:
Go for a stemmed glass that feels just dressy enough to make a Tuesday night feel elevated. The wide bowl allows your citrus aromas to bloom with every sip.
2. Rosé Raspberry Fizz
Pretty in pink and unapologetically summer.
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3 oz rosé wine
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1 oz raspberry liqueur (or muddled fresh raspberries)
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2 oz sparkling water or lemon soda
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Fresh raspberries and lemon wheel to garnish
How to Serve:
Use a tall glass to let those bubbles rise dramatically. Add pebble ice for texture, and let the fruit float freely for a gorgeous layered look.
3. The Limoncello Tonic Spritz
Bright, zesty, and made for golden hour.
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1.5 oz limoncello
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1 oz vodka (optional for extra punch)
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3 oz tonic water
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Lemon peel twist + basil
How to Serve:
A shorter tumbler or rocks glass lets the limoncello shine without dilution. Something with a weighty base gives this cocktail a little extra presence on the table.
4. Peachy Keen Prosecco Spritzer
Delicate, floral, and full of summer sweetness.
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2 oz peach nectar or juice
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3 oz chilled prosecco
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Splash of soda water
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Fresh peach slices + thyme sprig
How to Serve:
A coupe glass or modern stemless option keeps things feeling breezy and informal, perfect for backyard sipping or spontaneous gatherings.
5. Cucumber Elderflower Spritz
Clean, botanical, and spa-day approved.
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1 oz elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain)
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1.5 oz dry white wine
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2 oz soda water
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Cucumber ribbon + mint sprig
How to Serve:
Serve in a sleek highball to show off that cucumber curl. The taller the better—this drink is all about the aesthetic and the flavor.
Hosting Tips for Spritzer Season
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Make a Spritz Bar: Let guests mix their own by offering a chilled bottle of wine, soda waters, citrus slices, and a few fun liqueurs like limoncello or elderflower.
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Keep It Cold: Use frozen fruit instead of ice to keep drinks chilled without dilution.
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Glassware Matters: The right glass doesn’t just look great—it enhances aroma, sparkle, and sipping ease. Use stemmed glasses for wine-based spritzers, and tumblers or highballs for soda-heavy combos.
Let the Bubbles Do the Talking
Spritzers are the ultimate summer flex—easy, aesthetic, and always refreshing. Whether you’re pouring one for yourself or prepping a tray for friends, the key is to keep it light, keep it chill, and don’t underestimate the power of a good glass. This summer, lean into slow afternoons, fizzy drinks, and the kind of effortless entertaining that’s all about good vibes and good pours.
