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The Lambrusco Spritz: Say Hello to Your New Favorite Cocktail
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Looking for a way to celebrate California Wine Month? Why not try this Golden State-inspired version of the popular cocktail called the Lambrusco Spritz? Our CA GROWN inspired version of this go-to cocktail screams California cool and is sure to be your next favorite drink – perfect for celebrating California Wine Month. It not only tastes amazing but also highlights the incredible variety and quality of California wines. Grab your cocktail kit, and let’s dive into this CA GROWN alternative to the usual spritz.
What is a Traditional Spritz Recipe?
A traditional spritz recipe hails from Italy. It is a beloved aperitivo, perfect for kicking off an evening or for enjoying a sunny afternoon. The classic spritz typically involves three key ingredients: a bitter liqueur like Aperol or Campari, sparkling wine, and a splash of soda water. It is typically served over ice in a large wine glass and garnished with an orange slice or an olive. The traditional spritz strikes a perfect balance between bitter, sweet, and bubbly. An incredibly refreshing and versatile cocktail, this simple yet sophisticated drink has become a staple in bars and homes around the world.
What is a Lambrusco Spritz?
The Lambrusco Spritz is a modern twist on the classic Italian spritz cocktail. Traditionally made with Aperol or Campari and Lambrusco – a slightly sparkling red wine from Italy, the spritz evolved to include various sparkling wines. The modern Lambrusco Spritz cocktail combines the fruity and bubbly characteristics of Lambrusco with fresh grapefruit or other citrus juice and a splash of soda water, creating a vibrant and refreshing drink that’s perfect for any occasion.
California Sparkling Wine for a Golden State-Inspired Spritz
California wines are renowned for their depth, richness, and exceptional quality, and the effervescent sparkling Cuvée M Red from Mumm Napa is no exception. This wine achieves the perfect balance between the bold flavors of red wine and the elegant bubbles of sparkling wine.
Cuvée M Red from Mumm Napa serves as a perfect California-inspired substitution for the Lambrusco in this spritz cocktail.
Where Lambrusco originates from Italy and has a slight fizz and fruity profile, Cuvée M Red brings a similar yet distinctly California twist. It embodies the same vibrant fruitiness and refreshing bubbles but is crafted with grapes grown in California’s fertile vineyards.
Another Great Substitution: Sparkling Negro Amaro
Another great California alternative for Lambrusco is Sparkling Negro Amaro from Rava Wines. This wine has a whole lot of character with its bold, fruity flavors that keep things interesting. Perfect for those who like their spritz with a bit more punch, Sparkling Negro Amaro brings a unique depth to the cocktail. Plus, it’s got those delightful bubbles we all love in a spritz.
A Delightfully Bitter Golden State Twist: Angeleno Amaro
For an added California touch, consider using Angeleno Amaro as a stand-in for Aperol or Campari in your California inspired spritz. This delightfully bitter liqueur is crafted in Los Angeles and brings a unique complexity to any cocktail. With its vibrant blend of botanicals, Angeleno Amaro adds depth and a refreshing bitterness that perfectly complements the fruity notes of the wine and the grapefruit.
California Ripe Green Olives and Grapefruit Wedges – a Perfect Garnish
Want to elevate your delicious Golden State Lambrusco Spritz even further? Consider garnishing with a few California ripe green olives and a wedge of grapefruit.
The briny, rich flavor of olives perfectly complements the fruity bubbly wine. The fresh grapefruit wedge adds a vibrant citrus note that enhances the zesty kick of the cocktail.
These garnishes not only add a touch of sophistication but also bring a burst of CA GROWN flavor.
Our Golden State Lambrusco Spritz is not just another drink but a delightful sensory experience.
The Benefits of California Wines
California wines are celebrated worldwide for their diversity and quality. From the cool coastal regions to the warm inland valleys, California’s varied climate and geography provides ideal conditions for growing a wide range of grape varieties. This results in wines that are not only rich and flavorful, but also reflect the unique characteristics of the region where they grow.
Thirsty for more California-Inspired Spritz recipes?
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This ebook contains five delicious, real-food recipes as well as a bonus, delicious Spritz recipe.
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Golden State Lambrusco Spritz
Ingredients
- 1 ½ ounces Amaro Angeleno or Campari or Aperol.
- ½ ounce grapefruit juice or other citrus juice.
- 3 ounces Lambrusco-style sparkling red wine Mumm Napa, Cuvée M Red or Rava Sparkling Negro Amaro
- 1 ounce sparkling water
- 1 grapefruit wedge to garnish
- 2 olives to garnish
Instructions
- Pour amaro and grapefruit juice into a rocks glass full of ice and stir, top off with wine and sparkling water. Garnish with grapefruit wedge and olives. Serve immediately.