The Blood Orange Spritz is a captivating aperitif cocktail that originated from the citrus-rich regions of Italy. You'll be enchanted by its vibrant ruby hue and refreshing profile – a harmonious blend of sweet-tart blood orange juice, dry sparkling wine, and a touch of simple syrup. This effervescent delight entices with its visually striking contrast and lively, bittersweet flavors. Garnished with a slice of juicy blood orange, the spritz offers a unique twist on the traditional spritz-style cocktail. Want to learn more about the history and detailed preparation of this captivating libation?
Key Takeaways
- The Blood Orange Spritz is a refreshing aperitif cocktail that originates from citrus-rich regions of Italy, particularly southern Italy.
- It combines freshly squeezed blood orange juice, granulated sugar for simple syrup, and dry sparkling wine or Prosecco for an effervescent, bittersweet profile.
- The cocktail is characterized by its vibrant ruby hue and balanced flavors, showcasing the essence of the blood orange.
- The simple syrup can be made in advance and stored for up to 2 weeks, adding versatility to the recipe.
- The Blood Orange Spritz is a versatile drink suitable for various occasions, from aperitifs to summer refreshers, and can be served with light appetizers.
History

The origins of the Blood Orange Spritz can be traced back to the citrus-rich regions of Italy. Locals in southern Italy have long enjoyed the vibrant hues and distinctive flavors of blood oranges, which thrive in the Mediterranean climate.
As the popularity of aperitif cocktails grew in the 20th century, innovative bartenders began experimenting with this unique citrus fruit. They discovered that the Blood Orange Spritz's striking crimson color and tart, sweet taste made it an eye-catching and refreshing summer sipper.
Over time, the recipe evolved, with the addition of sparkling wine or soda water to create the effervescent, bittersweet profile we know today.
Now, the Blood Orange Spritz has become a beloved classic, enjoyed across Italy and around the world. Its vibrant hue and invigorating flavors capture the essence of the Mediterranean, making it the perfect accompaniment to warm, sunny days.
Recipe

The Blood Orange Spritz is a refreshing and visually stunning cocktail that combines the sweet-tart flavors of blood oranges with the effervescence of sparkling wine. This spritz is perfect for brunch, happy hour, or anytime you want to add a touch of elegance to your day.
To make this cocktail, you'll need to prepare a blood orange simple syrup. This syrup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it easy to whip up these spritzes on demand. The combination of the blood orange syrup and the dry, crisp sparkling wine creates a beautifully balanced and crowd-pleasing drink.
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed blood orange juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 bottle dry sparkling wine
- Sliced blood oranges for garnish
In a small saucepan, combine the blood orange juice and sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has fully dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Once cooled, the syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
To make the spritz, fill a wine glass with ice cubes. Add 2-3 tablespoons of the blood orange simple syrup and top with chilled sparkling wine. Gently stir to combine. Garnish with a slice of blood orange.
When making these spritzes, be sure to use a dry sparkling wine to balance the sweetness of the syrup. If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, start with 1-2 tablespoons of the syrup and adjust to your taste.
The blood orange simple syrup can also be used to add a pop of color and flavor to other cocktails or even drizzled over desserts.
Cooking Steps

Fill a glass with ice cubes.
Add the blood orange juice, then pour in the Prosecco or sparkling wine.
Stir gently to combine and garnish with an orange slice.
Step 1. Fill a Glass With Ice

With a glass in hand, add a generous amount of ice cubes. Fill the glass up to about an inch from the top, ensuring you have enough room for the other ingredients.
The ice will chill the spritz, making it refreshing and perfect for a warm day. Gently swirl the glass to distribute the ice evenly, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Be mindful not to overfill the glass, as you'll want to leave room for the blood orange juice and sparkling wine. The ice should occupy roughly two-thirds of the glass, providing the ideal ratio for a balanced and chilled cocktail.
Take care not to use too much ice, as it can dilute the flavors too quickly. With the glass ready, you can now move on to adding the blood orange juice and sparkling wine, bringing this vibrant and flavorful spritz to life.
Step 2. Add Blood Orange Juice

After adding the ice, reach for a fresh, ripe blood orange. Slice it in half and squeeze the juice into the glass, letting the bright orange liquid fill the container. The tart, sweet flavor of the blood orange will immediately dance on your tongue, hinting at the delightful combination to come.
Next, measure out 2 ounces of the vibrant juice and pour it into the glass. Watch as the juice swirls and mixes with the ice, creating a stunning ombré effect. The deep crimson hue will captivate your eyes, setting the stage for a truly magnificent spritz.
Stir gently to ensure the juice is evenly distributed throughout the glass. With the blood orange juice now incorporated, you're ready to move on to the next step in crafting this refreshing cocktail. The spritz is really starting to take shape, and you can practically feel the flavors coming together in perfect harmony.
Step 3. Add Prosecco or Sparkling Wine

Next, gently pour 2 to 3 ounces of chilled Prosecco or sparkling wine over the blood orange juice.
The effervescence of the sparkling wine will create a delightful fizz, adding a lively touch to the vibrant citrus flavor.
Stir the mixture briefly to combine the flavors, being careful not to overmix and lose the carbonation.
The Prosecco or sparkling wine should form a beautiful, frothy head on top of the deep orange liquid, creating a visually striking contrast.
Feel free to adjust the ratio of Prosecco to blood orange juice to suit your personal taste preferences, adding more wine for a drier, more pronounced effervescent note or more juice for a sweeter, more pronounced citrus flavor.
When you're satisfied with the balance, garnish your Blood Orange Spritz with a thin slice of blood orange or a sprig of fresh mint to enhance the overall presentation and aroma.
Step 4. Stir Gently to Combine

Gently stir the mixture to combine the flavors, taking care not to overwork it and lose the effervescence.
Use a spoon or a gentle swirling motion to incorporate the blood orange juice, simple syrup, and Prosecco or sparkling wine. The goal is to create a harmonious blend without disrupting the bubbly texture.
Avoid aggressive mixing, as that could cause the drink to lose its lively and refreshing character.
Once the ingredients are evenly distributed, your Blood Orange Spritz is ready to serve.
Pour the cocktail into glasses, ensuring each one gets an equal amount of the vibrant, citrusy liquid and the delightful bubbles.
Garnish with a slice of blood orange or a sprig of fresh mint to enhance the visual appeal and provide a tantalizing aroma.
Enjoy this effervescent and balanced cocktail as a sophisticated aperitif or a delightful accompaniment to a summer afternoon.
Step 5. Garnish With Orange Slice

Adorn the vibrant cocktail with a fresh slice of blood orange, expressing the citrus aroma as you place it delicately atop the glass. The deep orange hue complements the crimson-tinged spritz, creating a visually stunning presentation.
Gently press the slice against the rim, allowing the essential oils to release and mingle with the drink's flavors. The slice not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness, elevating the overall drinking experience.
As your guests reach for the cocktail, they'll be greeted by the tantalizing scent of the blood orange, whetting their appetite for the flavorful sip to come. This simple garnish ties the entire drink together, showcasing the vibrant and refreshing nature of the Blood Orange Spritz.
With the final touch, the cocktail is now ready to be savored and enjoyed.
Final Thoughts

The Blood Orange Spritz is a refreshing and vibrant cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of the citrus fruit. You'll be delighted by the balance of sweet and tart flavors, with the blood orange juice providing a beautiful ruby hue. The effervescent nature of the Prosecco adds a lively touch, making this drink perfect for any occasion.
One of the best things about the Blood Orange Spritz is its versatility. You can enjoy it as an aperitif, a refreshing pick-me-up on a hot day, or even as a palate cleanser between courses.
The simple yet sophisticated flavors ensure that it will appeal to a wide range of tastes. Whether you're hosting a gathering or treating yourself to a special cocktail, the Blood Orange Spritz is sure to delight.
Its vibrant color and unique flavor profile make it a standout among other spritz-style cocktails. Embrace the beauty of this stunning drink and let it transport you to a world of citrus-infused bliss. With its perfect balance of sweetness and bitter notes, this cocktail is sure to captivate your palate. Whether enjoyed poolside or at an elegant rooftop gathering, the vermouth spritz recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their cocktail repertoire. Pair it with light appetizers and let the refreshing taste of vermouth and citrus take center stage in your summer sipping experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Orange?
You can certainly use a different type of orange for your recipe. While blood oranges provide a distinct flavor profile, you can easily substitute another variety, like navel or Valencia, to suit your personal taste preferences.
How Long Will the Spritz Keep in the Fridge?
The spritz will keep in the fridge for 3-5 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. This way, you can enjoy the refreshing flavors for several days after making it.
Can I Add Other Fruits to the Spritz?
You can absolutely add other fruits to your spritz! Feel free to experiment with different citrus, berries, or even stone fruits. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness and carbonation to your taste.
Is the Spritz Suitable for Vegetarians/Vegans?
You can absolutely enjoy the spritz if you're a vegetarian or vegan. Many of the common ingredients, like sparkling wine and club soda, are typically animal-free. Just double-check the label to ensure the other components suit your dietary preferences.
What Is the Alcohol Content of the Spritz?
The alcohol content of a spritz can vary, but it's typically around 8-12% ABV. This low-to-moderate alcohol content makes it an enjoyable and refreshing option for those looking for a lighter alcoholic beverage.