Rosemary Lemon Vodka Cocktail
Rosemary Lemon Sparkler
Summer temps are HERE and that calls for a light and refreshing summer drink. I used fresh rosemary from our garden to give this just a very gentle touch of rosemary against the tartness of the lemon. I prefer not to make a rosemary syrup but instead just get a slight rosemary flavor by muddling it with lemon. More detail below. I like to think of this drink as an elevated vodka and lemonade or lemon drop martini, made extra special with fresh lemon juice and Prosecco.
Ingredients For Rosemary Lemon Vodka Cocktail:
- 3 oz Titos Vodka
- 2 oz simple syrup
- 3 oz Prosecco
- 1/2 lemon, quartered
- 1 sprig of rosemary
- Rosemary or lemon slices for garnish
Instructions For Rosemary Lemon Vodka Cocktail:
In a cocktail shaker, muddle lemon, rosemary, and simple syrup. Muddle really well to get the juices flowing. Add vodka and ice. Shake like you mean it. Add Prosecco into the shaker and strain into your glass filled with ice cubes (or a single ice cube for a more sophisticated look.) Top with Prosecco as needed/desired. Garnish with lemon or rosemary. Enjoy. #ahastycocktail
I served mine in a Tom Collins glass, but it would be great in a martini glass as well. You could also try it with a granulated sugar rim, if you’re feeling extra fancy.
Serving size: 2
Sparkling Cocktails: A Fizz of History and Flavor
The effervescent allure of sparkling cocktails has captivated drinkers for centuries, adding a touch of celebration and elegance to any occasion. These bubbly concoctions, often associated with festivities and joy, owe their origin to a rich history of innovation and creativity in the world of mixology.
Historical Bubbles: The Birth of Sparkling Cocktails
The art of effervescence in cocktails can be traced back to the 17th century, with the discovery of sparkling wine in the Champagne region of France. Although accidental, the natural carbonation of the wine captured the imagination of the French and set the stage for the rise of sparkling libations. The creation of the first sparkling wine is often attributed to Dom Pérignon, a Benedictine monk, in the late 1600s. As the story goes, Pérignon unintentionally trapped carbon dioxide in his wine, resulting in delightful bubbles that transformed an ordinary wine into a sparkling sensation.
The popularity of sparkling wine quickly spread beyond France, and by the 19th century, it had become a symbol of luxury and celebration. This effervescent elixir found its way into cocktails, inspiring mixologists to experiment with bubbly ingredients, creating a new category of drinks that would become iconic.
Classic Sparkling Cocktails: Bubbles with a Twist
Champagne Cocktail:
This timeless classic dates back to the 19th century and is simplicity at its finest. A sugar cube soaked in Angostura bitters is placed at the bottom of a flute, topped with Champagne. The result is a delightful mix of effervescence and subtle sweetness.
Bellini:
Originating from Venice, Italy, the Bellini is a delicate and refreshing cocktail made with Prosecco and peach puree. Invented at Harry's Bar in Venice, it has become a symbol of Italian sophistication, capturing the essence of summer in every sip.
French 75:
Named after a powerful World War I artillery piece, the French 75 combines gin, Champagne, lemon juice, and simple syrup. This cocktail packs a punch, balancing the herbal notes of gin with the effervescence of Champagne, creating a drink that is both strong and refreshing.
Kir Royale:
A twist on the classic Kir cocktail, the Kir Royale replaces white wine with Champagne, resulting in a more luxurious and celebratory drink. Creme de cassis, a blackcurrant liqueur, adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful color to this French favorite.
Mimosa:
A brunch staple, the Mimosa is a delightful blend of equal parts Champagne and chilled citrus juice, typically orange juice. Its light and citrusy profile make it a popular choice for morning celebrations.
Contemporary Sparkling Creations: The Evolution of Bubbles
As the world of mixology continues to evolve, contemporary bartenders have embraced the effervescent trend, introducing new and inventive sparkling cocktails to tantalize modern palates.
Elderflower Sparkler:
Combining the floral notes of elderflower liqueur with the crispness of sparkling wine, the Elderflower Sparkler is a contemporary favorite. Add a splash of club soda and a twist of lemon for a refreshing and sophisticated drink.
Cucumber Basil Sparkle:
This garden-inspired concoction features muddled cucumber and basil, shaken with gin and topped with sparkling water. The result is a light and herbaceous cocktail that dances on the palate.
Sparkling Pomegranate Punch:
Perfect for large gatherings, this vibrant punch combines pomegranate juice, vodka, orange liqueur, and sparkling wine. Garnished with fresh berries and citrus slices, it's a visually stunning and delicious option for festive occasions.
Ginger Rose Fizz:
Infusing the warmth of ginger with the floral essence of rose water, this cocktail is a harmonious blend of flavors. Mixed with gin and topped with sparkling water, it's a modern twist on the classic gin fizz.
Raspberry Sorbet Sparkler:
For a decadent and dessert-like experience, try a Raspberry Sorbet Sparkler. Place a scoop of raspberry sorbet in a glass and pour Champagne or sparkling wine over it. The sorbet slowly melts, infusing the drink with fruity sweetness and a creamy texture.
Conclusion: Bubbling with Delight
From the grandeur of Champagne cocktails to the inventive sparklers of the modern mixology scene, sparkling cocktails have carved a permanent place in the world of libations. Whether celebrating a milestone or simply sipping in the glow of everyday moments, these effervescent concoctions continue to captivate drinkers with their timeless appeal and effervescent charm.
