Sparkling Spritz Punch

Summer is officially spritz season in my book, and it’s the best time of year to make a sparkling spritz punch. This bubbly, sweet, and slightly bitter cocktail is a twist on the classic Aperol spritz. Here, the addition of grapefruit soda bumps up the flavor of the Aperol. 

While you can make spritzes one at a time, you can speed up the process by turning it into a punch or pitcher drink instead. All you have to do is measure, mix, and pour into ice-filled glasses. The best part? Those who want a refill can just help themselves.

Spritzes are Italian wine-based cocktails that are usually enjoyed as an apéritif, or drink, served before a meal. There’s often a bitter element in the drink, which is said to help stimulate the appetite. 

Spritzes are light and refreshing, which makes them popular lower-alcohol drinks in the summertime. One of the most well-known spritzes is the Aperol spritz. This sparkling spritz punch is a riff on the Aperol spritz.

• Sparkling wine. Prosecco is a great, inexpensive choice.
• Aperol. An Italian bitter apéritif that’s bright orange.
• Grapefruit soda. Grab one can or bottle of sparkling grapefruit soda.
• Orange and orange bitters. One orange and a dash of orange bitters bring freshness and depth to this spritz.

• St. Germain Pitcher Spritzer
• 3-2-1 Pitcher Margaritas
• Cucumber Gin & Tonic Pitcher Cocktail

Sparkling spritz punch is great served during happy hour with some savory nibbles like spiced nuts, blue cheese dip, or puffed pastry bites. Stir together this easy punch and enjoy a spritz-y summer.