When I want a drink that’s both simple and impressive, I make a Prosecco with Tangerine Thyme Cocktail. It’s sparkling, slightly sweet, and has a fresh, herbal twist.

This cocktail combines Prosecco, tangerine juice, and thyme for a refreshing drink perfect for any occasion.

I enjoy sharing recipes that are easy to follow but still stand out at a gathering. With just a handful of ingredients, I can prepare a show-stopping cocktail without a lot of effort.

The bright citrus and subtle thyme make this drink special. I think you’ll agree after you try it.

Prosecco With Tangerine Thyme Cocktail Recipe

This sparkling cocktail brings together the fresh taste of tangerine, herbal notes of thyme, and the crisp bubbles of Prosecco. I follow a step-by-step process and use a handful of tools and ingredients to keep it simple and refreshing.

John

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size

Equipment

Ingredients

4 ounces chilled Prosecco
2 ounces fresh tangerine juice
1 teaspoon simple syrup more to taste
2-3 fresh thyme sprigs plus more for garnish

1-2 tangerine slices for garnish
Ice cubes

Instructions

Add thyme sprigs and simple syrup to the shaker.
Gently muddle the thyme to release its flavor.
Pour in the tangerine juice and fill the shaker with ice.

Shake well for about 10 seconds.
Strain the mixture into a chilled flute or wine glass.
Top with chilled Prosecco, pouring slowly to preserve bubbles.

Gently stir once with a bar spoon.
Garnish with a tangerine slice and a sprig of thyme.

Notes

I find that fresh tangerine juice works best because bottled juice can taste flat or overly sweet. If Prosecco is not available, any dry sparkling wine is a good substitute.

For more sweetness, I sometimes add a few extra drops of simple syrup. Using fresh herbs is key; old thyme tends to be dull in flavor.

I use a fine-mesh strainer so no herb bits get into the drink. For a less sweet version, I cut down on the syrup or leave it out completely.

I always serve immediately to keep the bubbles crisp. No one likes flat bubbles, right?

Tasting Notes

When I take my first sip, I notice the gentle bubbles from the prosecco. They feel light and crisp on my tongue.

The tangerine brings a bright, sweet citrus taste. It is not too sharp and blends well with the sparkling wine.

A hint of thyme adds something different. Its subtle herbal note gives the drink a fresh and slightly earthy scent.

Flavor Highlights:

Crisp bubbles
Sweet citrus from tangerine
Mild herbal thyme

I enjoy how the drink looks in the glass, with its golden-orange color and green sprig of thyme. The scents of citrus and herbs are gentle but noticeable.

Substitute

Sometimes, I can’t find all the ingredients for this cocktail. There are easy substitutions that still taste great, though.

For Tangerine Juice:

Orange juice (freshly squeezed works best)

Mandarin juice
Clementine juice

These options have a pretty similar flavor and sweetness, honestly.

For Prosecco:

Sparkling white wine
Cava
Champagne (for a drier, less sweet taste)

Sometimes I just use non-alcoholic sparkling grape juice if I want to skip the booze.

For Thyme:

Fresh rosemary
Mint leaves
Basil

Any of these herbs bring a fresh flavor and a nice aroma. I kind of love experimenting here.

If I run out of simple syrup:

Honey syrup (mix equal parts honey and water)

Agave syrup
Maple syrup

If I’m missing some equipment, I just get a little creative.

Cocktail shaker → Mason jar with lid
Citrus juicer → Hand squeeze or even a fork twist in the fruit

Strainer → Fine mesh sieve or, in a pinch, a clean kitchen towel

Instructions don’t really change—just swap out the ingredient or tool as needed. Improvising keeps it fun, and I still get to enjoy a tasty drink.

Prosecco with Tangerine Thyme Cocktail Recipe