Sugarplum Gin Sparkler Cocktail Recipe

I’ve always liked making cocktails that feel a little special but aren’t too fussy. The Sugarplum Gin Sparkler is one of those drinks—it’s light and has just enough sweetness to keep things interesting, especially with all those bubbles.

It’s honestly a simple way to mix gin, sparkling wine, and sugarplum flavors into a festive drink without much hassle.

Whenever I serve this, it just feels right for a celebration, but honestly, it’s nice on a random evening too. The combo of fruit and fizz is fun and a bit elegant, but you don’t need to spend all night making it.

Let’s walk through how to put it together, what flavors you’ll get, and a bit about why it works for so many occasions.

Sugarplum Gin Sparkler Cocktail Recipe

I keep coming back to this one because the plum flavor pops, but the sparkling wine keeps it crisp and light. The gin, plum, and a hint of citrus make it refreshing, and you don’t need any fancy skills to pull it off at home.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker – I use this to mix the gin, lemon juice, and plum syrup together.
• Strainer – This helps me pour out the liquid without any ice or fruit bits.
• Jigger – I like measuring with this so the flavors stay balanced.
• Bar spoon – I stir gently when I’m not in the mood to shake things up.
• Champagne flute or coupe glass – These are my go-to because they show off the bubbles.
• Small knife and cutting board – Just what I grab to slice plums or lemons for garnish.
• Cocktail pick – Handy for propping up a plum slice or cherry on top.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin (I usually reach for a dry one)
• 1 oz plum syrup or plum brandy if I’m feeling bold
• 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
• 3 oz sparkling wine or champagne
• 1–2 fresh plums, sliced thin for garnish
• Optional: 0.25 oz simple syrup if you like it sweeter
• Ice cubes for shaking

Ripe sugar plums are fantastic for that deep color and sweet kick. If I’m out, I’ll swap in a plum liqueur or even a gin that’s been infused with plum.

Instructions

• Fill your shaker with ice.
• Add the gin, plum syrup (or brandy), and lemon juice.
• Give it a good shake for 10–15 seconds until it’s nice and cold.
• Strain into a chilled flute or coupe glass.
• Top with sparkling wine.
• Garnish with a plum slice on a cocktail pick.

If I want it lighter, I’ll just pour in extra sparkling wine. Or if I’m in the mood for something stronger, I up the brandy or syrup.

Notes

This drink’s a winner for small get-togethers since it looks festive and comes together fast. The plum really plays well with the gin and that bit of citrus.

Sometimes I swap the sparkling wine for soda water if I’m not feeling boozy. Using plum brandy instead of syrup makes it a little richer and more layered, which I actually like.

Don’t skip the garnish. A thin plum wedge or a sugared rim just makes it look a little more polished. I usually go for a fresh plum slice on a pick—it’s simple, and you can eat it after.

Tasting Notes

That first sip? It’s crisp and light, honestly—can’t miss the clean base from the gin. The bubbles, whether from sparkling water or wine, just lift everything and keep it from feeling heavy.

There’s this sugarplum flavor that sneaks in, adding a gentle sweetness. It kind of reminds me of biting into ripe stone fruit, which is pretty nice.

It balances out with those herbal gin notes, so thankfully, it never gets too sugary.

As I keep drinking, a soft tartness comes through and keeps the whole thing lively. That little bit of acidity really helps—makes it easy to imagine sipping as either an autumn cocktail or a Christmas cocktail.

And the aroma? I have to say, it’s doing some work here. You get whiffs of plum and citrus with every sip, which makes it all feel festive and bright.

The finish is smooth, slightly fruity, and there’s just enough sparkle to keep things refreshing. It feels light enough for a casual hangout, but honestly, it’s got the flavor depth to hold its own at a holiday table too.