Snowy Orchard Spritz: A Festive Cocktail for the Season

There’s something about the holidays that makes every sip feel a little more magical—especially when it involves bubbles and a garnish that could double as a Christmas ornament. The Snowy Orchard Spritz is here to make your celebrations as bright and refreshing as a winter morning. Inspired by crisp orchard fruits and the subtle sparkle of the season, this cocktail blends elegance and cheer into every glass.

The Inspiration

Picture this: twinkling lights, the scent of fresh pine, and the soft hum of holiday music playing in the background. That’s the vibe we’re channeling with the Snowy Orchard Spritz. It’s the perfect combination of tart, floral, and fizzy, with Empress Cucumber Lemon Gin adding a vibrant herbal touch. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a drink that looks like it belongs on a holiday card?

This cocktail was also born from a little winter magic. I managed to step outside just in time for the first snow in Tennessee to take these photos. It was absolutely freezing, but so worth it! My husband and I teamed up to work quickly, racing against the fading light and melting snow. The effort paid off, capturing a scene that feels as frosty and festive as the drink itself.

What Makes It Special

This isn’t just any sparkling cocktail. White cranberry juice brings a subtle tartness and a frosty hue that screams winter wonderland. Elderflower liqueur adds a delicate floral note, while sparkling wine ensures every sip is light and celebratory. Want to make it extra festive? Add some sugared cranberries! Those are the cherry (or cranberry) on top, giving this drink an extra festive flourish. Plus, the use of Empress Cucumber Lemon Gin takes the flavor profile to another level with its refreshing cucumber and citrus notes.

Serving Tips and Variations

• Presentation: Serve the Snowy Orchard Spritz in a chilled wine glass or coupe for an extra elegant touch. The contrast of the white sugared cranberries and the sprig of thyme or rosemary makes it a showstopper on the holiday table.
• Non-Alcoholic Twist: Swap the gin and elderflower liqueur for a splash of elderflower tonic and a little extra white cranberry juice. Top with non-alcoholic sparkling wine for a festive mocktail.
• Garnish Options: Don’t have sugared cranberries? No problem. Try a twist of lemon peel or a few frozen white grapes for a frosty effect.

Food Pairings

The Snowy Orchard Spritz pairs beautifully with light and festive bites:

Sweet: White chocolate peppermint bark, sugar-dusted shortbread cookies, or a winter fruit tart.

Savory: Goat cheese crostini with cranberry compote, smoked salmon blinis, or rosemary spiced nuts.

Print Recipe

Snowy Orchard Spritz

Elevate your holiday hosting with the Snowy Orchard Spritz! A crisp, bubbly cocktail featuring gin, white cranberry, and elderflower.

Equipment

• Large wine glass or coupe
• Cocktail Shaker
• Ice cubes
• Strainer
• Cocktail pick

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Empress Cucumber Lemon Gin
• 1 oz white cranberry juice for its crisp and subtle tartness
• 0.25 oz elderflower liqueur e.g., St-Germain
• 3 oz sparkling wine or prosecco dry or semi-dry works best
• Ice cubes

Garnish:

• Sugared cranberries
• Fresh thyme sprig or a small rosemary sprig

Instructions

Prepare the Glass:

• Chill a large wine glass or coupe for a few minutes.
• Add ice cubes to the glass for a refreshing touch.

Build the Cocktail:

• Combine Empress Cucumber Lemon Gin, white cranberry juice, and elderflower liqueur in a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Shake gently to chill and mix.

Assemble:

• Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
• Top with sparkling wine or prosecco, pouring gently to preserve the bubbles.

Garnish:

• Thread a few white sugared cranberries onto a cocktail pick and place it across the glass rim.
• Add a sprig of thyme or rosemary for a fresh, festive aroma.

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