Sparkling Sugarplum Spritz: Your Festive Low ABV Cheers
Last Updated on May 8, 2026 by juliarecipez
There’s something enchantingly festive about a cocktail that sparkles in the glass and dances on your palate. Enter the Sugarplum Spritz a delightful concoction that captures the essence of holiday cheer in every sip. I first crafted this drink during a cozy gathering with friends, and the way the bubbles mingled with the fruity essence of plum wine and rich cherry syrup quickly made it a favorite. With its refreshing blend of flavors and low alcohol content, this spritz is perfect for toasting to joyous moments without the heft of stronger cocktails.
Imagine yourself mingling with loved ones, laughter echoing around you, and a fizzing glass in hand that just beckons for another sip. Not only is it incredibly easy to whip up, but it also brings a touch of elegance to any festive occasion. Let s dive into how to create this bubbly delight that promises to elevate your holiday gatherings!
Why Will You Love Sugarplum Spritz?
Festive Flair: The Sugarplum Spritz brings a sparkling touch to your holiday gatherings, making it a stunning centerpiece for any table.
Low ABV Delight: With its moderate alcohol content, this cocktail allows you to enjoy the festive vibes without sacrificing your ability to savor each moment.
Effortless Preparation: Whip it up in just a few steps; perfect for busy hosts who still want to impress!
Versatile Variations: Easily adapt the recipe with different fruit wines or herbs to suit your taste, ensuring every batch feels new.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its balanced flavor profile of sweet, tart, and bubbly will appeal to both cocktail enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike!
Visually Stunning: Garnished with plum slices, this drink is as lovely to look at as it is to sip. Social media-worthy for sure!
Sugarplum Spritz Ingredients
Get ready to mix a sparkling delight!
For the Rim
- Granulated Sugar Adds sweetness for the rim; try using flavored sugar for an extra twist!
For the Cocktail Base
- Simple Syrup Provides a smooth sweetness; agave syrup or honey can give a unique flavor profile.
- Plum Wine The essential base spirit; it’s sweet, floral, and slightly sour for a vibrant character.
- Luxardo Maraschino Cherry Syrup Vital for rich cherry flavor; best to stick with the original for that classic spritz taste.
- Fresh Lemon Juice Brightens the drink; use freshly squeezed for optimal acidity.
- Peychaud’s Bitters Just a dash enhances complexity; aromatic bitters can substitute if needed.
- Ice Chills the drink to perfection; no substitutions here!
For the Sparkle
- Dry Prosecco Essential for that bubbly finish; any dry sparkling wine can be used as a substitute.
For the Garnish
- Plum Slices Adds a visual flair and hint of freshness; can swap with lemon slices if desired.
Now you re equipped to whip up a delightful Sugarplum Spritz for your next festive gathering! Enjoy the process of creating this easy-to-make, low ABV cocktail that s sure to impress.
How to Make Sugarplum Spritz
Prepare the Glass: Start by rimming your glass with granulated sugar for a touch of sweetness. This simple step adds a delightful crunch as you sip.
Mix the Base: In a shaker, combine the simple syrup, plum wine, Luxardo cherry syrup, fresh lemon juice, and Peychaud’s bitters. Add ice and shake well until chilled, about 15 seconds.
Shake: Give it a good shake until the mixture feels cold to the touch, bringing out the bright and fruity flavors, about 30 seconds.
Strain and Serve: Strain the cocktail mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice, then top it off with dry Prosecco. Watch the bubbles rise as you pour!
Garnish: Add beautiful plum slices to the top for a refreshing garnish that elevates your drink s visual appeal, making it festive and fun.
Optional: Experiment with additional garnishes like fresh mint for an aromatic touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Sugarplum Spritz?
Imagine a festive spread that perfectly complements the effervescent charm of this bubbly cocktail, elevating your gatherings into memorable experiences.
Cheese Platter: A delightful array of creamy brie, tangy goat cheese, and nutty manchego pairs beautifully with the sweet notes of the spritz.
Charcuterie Board: Salty cured meats like prosciutto and salami contrast wonderfully with the fruity flavor, providing a savory complement.
Spiced Nuts: The crunchy texture of lightly spiced mixed nuts enhances the holiday vibe, adding a satisfying bite alongside a refreshing sip.
Fresh Fruit Skewers: Incorporate plump grapes and juicy strawberries, echoing the cocktail’s fruity essence while adding a refreshing burst of flavor.
Mini Tartlets: Consider filling these flaky pastries with tart lemon or berry preserves; their sweetness will harmonize with the spritz’s bright notes.
Crispy Spring Rolls: The light crunch and fresh vegetable filling balance the sweet spritz, creating a fun and zesty contrast on your palate.
This assortment not only delights the senses but also sets the stage for laughter and connection during your festive celebrations!
Storage Tips for Sugarplum Spritz
- Fridge: Store the cocktail base (without prosecco) in an airtight container for up to 24 hours to maintain freshness. Mix with prosecco just before serving to keep the bubbles intact.
- Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the cocktail out for more than an hour to ensure the flavors remain vibrant and the drink doesn’t lose its fizz.
- Freezer: While it’s not recommended to freeze the mixed cocktail due to the carbonation, you can freeze individual plum slices as a garnish for a frosty touch when serving.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the Sugarplum Spritz base in advance for a stress-free gathering, but always add the prosecco right before serving for that delightful spritz effect.
Make Ahead Options
These Sugarplum Spritz cocktails are perfect for meal prep and can save you precious time during busy holiday gatherings! You can prepare the cocktail base (without prosecco) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the simple syrup, plum wine, cherry syrup, lemon juice, and bitters in a shaker, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. To maintain quality, make sure to store the mixture in an airtight container, which will keep the flavors vibrant. When it’s time to wow your guests, just add ice to fresh glasses, pour in the prepped mixture, and top with prosecco for that delightful fizz. Enjoy a festive drink that’s ready with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Sugarplum Spritz
Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest, zesty flavor. It truly enhances the Sugarplum Spritz.
Prosecco Timing: Add Prosecco just before serving to keep your spritz bubbly and lively. Mix everything else in advance for convenience.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the syrup measurements based on your sweetness preference. It’s your Sugarplum Spritz, after all!
Chill Tools: Pre-chill your glass and shaker to maintain that refreshing chill when mixing. A cold glass makes a sparkling difference!
Garnish Wisely: Use vibrant plum slices for a stunning presentation. You can also explore other garnishes like mint for an extra flair!
Variations & Substitutions for Sugarplum Spritz
Feel free to get creative and make this delightful cocktail truly your own with these fun twists and swaps!
- Fruit Wine Swap: Replace plum wine with other fruity wines like white peach or blackberry for new flavors.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh mint or basil to the shaker for an aromatic complexity, making each sip refreshing.
- Sweetener Choices: Use maple syrup or honey instead of simple syrup for an earthy sweetness that might surprise your palate.
- Soda Boost: Top the spritz off with lemon-lime soda instead of prosecco for a sweeter, fizzy alternative, perfect for mocktails.
- Bitter Variation: Experiment with other bitters like orange or chocolate for a unique flavor profile that enhances the drink.
- Fruity Garnishes: Instead of plum slices, try garnishing with fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries for a burst of color and flavor.
- Adjust Heat: Add a splash of ginger liqueur for a warm, spicy kick that instantly elevates the seasonal cheer.
- Non-Alcoholic Option: Create a mocktail version by using sparkling water and fruit juices, capturing the spritz essence without the alcohol.
Sugarplum Spritz Recipe FAQs
What kind of plum wine should I use for the Sugarplum Spritz?
I recommend using a sweet and floral plum wine, which is essential for the cocktail’s character. Look for brands that are labeled as “plum wine” or “umeshu” for the best flavor. If you can’t find plum wine, you can substitute with a dry white wine, but the spritz will have a different taste profile.
How long can I store the Sugarplum Spritz base?
You can store the Sugarplum Spritz base (without prosecco) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to mix in the prosecco right before serving to ensure it stays bubbly and refreshing!
Can I freeze the Sugarplum Spritz?
While it s best not to freeze the entire mixed cocktail, you can freeze individual plum slices to use as a frosty garnish. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze them for a couple of hours, and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. This way, you can add a chill and extra flair to your drink without losing any fizz!
What if my Sugarplum Spritz turns out too sweet?
If your spritz is overly sweet, you can balance the flavors by adding a little more fresh lemon juice or even a dash more bitters. Start with a teaspoon of lemon juice, shake well, and taste. Repeat until you reach the desired balance. Remember, the sweetness can also be adjusted directly by changing the amount of simple syrup you use!
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Sugarplum Spritz?
Absolutely! To create a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the plum wine and prosecco with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic sparkling wine. You can also add more fruit juices like cranberry or pomegranate for acidity while keeping the cherry syrup for flavor. This way, everyone can enjoy the festivities!
Are there any dietary considerations for this cocktail?
The Sugarplum Spritz contains ingredients that may not be suitable for everyone. The cherry syrup has added sugars, so those monitoring their sugar intake may want to adjust the quantity. Additionally, ensure that all ingredients, especially the sugar rimmer, are gluten-free if you or your guests have gluten sensitivities. Always label any allergens clearly to keep both pets and people safe!