Blogs & Inspiration
Spritz Cocktails That Will Set Your Menu Apart
From spritz inspo to dos and don’ts, and tips on how to promote these serves, learn all you need to know to make your spritz offerings a success.
Author: Max La Rocca, Global Bartender, Hospitality Trainer and Cocktail Competition Mentor & Judge
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Spritz up your menu
With its refreshing and effervescent nature, the spritz has been a firm, long-standing favourite for both seasoned mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts alike. But, as the cocktail was long-defined by its traditional bitter liqueur and soda water recipe, your creativity might have felt a little stunted when trying to create an original spritz serve in the past.
An Evolution
Thankfully, in recent years, the spritz has evolved to include an array of ingredients such as spirits, flavoured sodas, cordials, vinegars, amaros and teas.
In fact, a spritz is now defined as a wine-based cocktail made with prosecco, any spirit or liqueur and a sparkling mixer. So, if you want to create an original cocktail menu, don’t be scared to steer away from that dusty old traditional recipe. It’s time to get creative!
From spritz inspo to dos and don’ts, and tips on how to promote these serves, learn all you need to know to make your spritz offerings a success.
A Guide to Making Spritz Cocktails
Need some recipes to get you started? Check out these delicious spritz recipes – from simple to advanced:
- Amalfi Spritzer – made with vodka and navan vanilla liqueur, mixed with passionfruit syrup and a splash of soda.
- Apple and Elderflower Spritz – a fresh, gin-based sparking cocktail.
- Gordon’s Pink Spritz – another great gin-based spritz with a fruity twist.
Spritz Do's
- Use fresh ingredients and garnishes to enhance the visual appeal and flavour of your spritz.
- Consider using unique and seasonal ingredients like fresh citrus fruits, herbs and edible flowers.
- Experiment with different spirits, liqueurs, and bitters to create your own signature spritz.
Spritz Don'ts
- Skimp on quality ingredients. The success of a spritz cocktail lies in the harmonious combination of its components.
- Overlook the importance of a balanced flavour profile. Ensure that the sweetness, bitterness, and acidity are in harmony with each other.
- Forget to serve your spritz in a chilled glass. Spritzes should always be served in a chilled glass with plenty of ice to maintain its refreshing nature throughout the drinking experience.
How to Promote Spritz Cocktails
Now you know how to create the perfect spritz, how do you go about marketing your new masterpieces? Here are my top strategies:
- Create an appealing section on your menu dedicated to spritz cocktails. Include enticing descriptions and vibrant visuals to capture your customers' attention.
- Offer a spritz tasting flight, allowing your guests to sample different variations. This encourages exploration and increases the chances of repeat visits.
- Feature spritz cocktails as part of your happy hour specials. Offer discounted prices during specific hours to entice customers to try these trendy drinks.
- Leverage the power of social media by creating engaging and informative content around spritz cocktails and by encouraging your customers to share their spritz experiences on social media.
- Offer incentives such as discounts, gift cards, exclusive cocktail tastings, or branded merchandise for customers who tag your bar in their posts.
Key Takeaways
- The spritz has evolved to include an array of ingredients such as spirits, flavoured sodas, cordials, vinegars, amaros and teas.
- Consider using unique and seasonal ingredients like fresh citrus fruits, herbs and edible flowers in your spritz recipes.
- Don't skimp on quality ingredients. The success of a spritz cocktail lies in the harmonious combination of its components.
- Create an appealing section on your menu dedicated to spritz cocktails. Include enticing descriptions and vibrant visuals to capture your customers' attention.
- Leverage the power of social media by creating engaging and informative content around spritz cocktails and by encouraging your customers to share their spritz experiences on social media.
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