Our Most-Saved Cocktail Is a Spritz (But Not the One You Think)

Published on March 7, 2026

We've all had our Aperol and Hugo spritz obsessions, and we're certainly not over these classic aperitifs. But if you're looking for a new, refreshing way to sip some bubbly with a twist, meet our most popular cocktail recipe of 2025: the Spa Spritz. This simple drink is every bit as relaxing and refreshing as its name suggests, and it's a cinch to put together.

Why We Love a Spa Spritz

To put it simply, this cocktail tastes like a breezy summer day. The fresh cucumber, juicy citrus slices, and fragrant herbs make a bright, invigorating drink that's extra fun, thanks to a floater of sparkling wine.

Lillet Blanc is a slightly sweet fortified wine that adds notes of orange blossom, honeysuckle, peach, and apricot to the drink. Tantai "Tan" Khantachavana, head bartender at BKK New York in New York City, calls this aperitif "the cherry on top of a good sundae." And since the liquor has a reasonable 17% ABV, even with a few ounces of sparkling wine, the Spa Spritz is a low-alcohol cocktail that won't drag you down the next morning.

Tips For Making a Spa Spritz

The fun part about this recipe is that it's easy to customize with what's in your kitchen.

• For citrus, you can use lemons, limes, oranges, or a combination of all three! Blood oranges would make an especially pretty garnish.
• Try basil or mint. Both leafy herbs add a delicious freshness that tastes and smells like summer, even in the dead of winter.
• Opt for a drier sparkling wine (we like Prosecco or Cava) to temper the sweetness of the Lillet Blanc. Kimberly Johnson, bartender at Left Bank Brasserie Santana Row in San Jose, California, says, “If you only have sweet bubbly, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice to balance out that sweetness with acidity."
• You only need a splash of club soda to top off your drink. Its role is to lighten things up and dilute some of the stronger flavors a touch.

What Our Readers Say About this Cocktail Recipe

Our readers rave about this drink, including one who writes, "I loved how light and refreshing this summer cocktail was. I made mine with lemon and basil. Next time, I am going to try adding orange and mint. Great drink!"