Lemon thyme adds a fresh twist to the classic spritz cocktail. This aromatic herb pairs beautifully with zesty citrus and bubbly prosecco.
The Lemon Thyme Spritz is a light, refreshing drink perfect for warm summer evenings.
The cocktail combines the herbal notes of thyme with bright lemon flavors. A splash of soda water gives it a pleasant fizz.
It’s easy to make at home with just a few ingredients.
This recipe offers a fun way to use herbs from your garden. The lemon thyme spritz works well for parties or casual gatherings. It’s a tasty alternative to heavier cocktails.
Lemon Thyme Spritz Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Strainer
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Muddler
- Cocktail glasses (wine glasses or tall glasses work well)
- Ice cube tray
- Knife and cutting board
- Citrus juicer (optional)
Ingredients
For two servings, gather:
- 4 oz vodka
- 2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz thyme simple syrup
- 4-6 sprigs fresh thyme
- Ice cubes
- 4 oz chilled prosecco
- Club soda to top
- Lemon slices and thyme sprigs for garnish
To make thyme simple syrup:
- Mix 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small pot
- Add 4-5 thyme sprigs
- Heat until sugar dissolves
- Cool and strain
Instructions
- Add 2-3 thyme sprigs and lemon juice to the shaker. Muddle gently.
- Pour in vodka and thyme simple syrup. Fill shaker with ice.
- Shake for 10-15 seconds until chilled.
- Strain into ice-filled glasses.
- Top each glass with 2 oz prosecco and a splash of club soda.
- Stir gently to mix.
- Garnish with a lemon slice and thyme sprig.
Serve right away and enjoy your homemade Lemon Thyme Spritz!
Notes
Tasting Notes
The Lemon Thyme Spritz Cocktail offers a mix of bright and herbal flavors. Its taste is light and refreshing, perfect for warm days.
The first sip reveals a zesty lemon burst. This citrus note is crisp and tangy, but not overly sour. It provides a lively start to the drink.
Next, the thyme’s earthy essence comes through. This herb adds depth and complexity to the cocktail. Its subtle woodsy flavor balances the lemon’s sharpness.
The sparkling wine brings effervescence and a touch of sweetness. Tiny bubbles dance on the tongue, creating a fun and fizzy texture.
A hint of gin rounds out the flavor profile. It adds a mild juniper taste and boosts the drink’s strength without overpowering other ingredients.
The finish is clean and dry. It leaves a pleasant herbal aftertaste that lingers briefly.
This cocktail pairs well with:
- Light appetizers
- Grilled fish
- Fresh salads
- Soft cheeses
Its taste can change slightly based on the type of sparkling wine used. Prosecco makes it sweeter, while Champagne adds more dryness.
Substitute
Lemon thyme can be swapped out in this cocktail recipe if needed. Fresh thyme makes a good alternative, giving a similar herbal flavor.
Rosemary also works well, adding a piney note. For a different twist, try basil or mint leaves.
If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs can be used. Use about 1/3 the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.
Steep dried herbs in the simple syrup for extra flavor.
No herbs at all? Try adding a splash of herbal liqueur like Chartreuse or Benedictine. These provide complex herbal notes in place of the fresh lemon thyme.
For a non-alcoholic version, skip the gin and double the soda water. Add a dash of bitters for depth.
You can also use non-alcoholic gin alternatives now available in many stores.
The lemon juice is key for brightness. In a pinch, lime juice or even orange juice could work.
Adjust sweetness as needed when swapping citrus.