Tangerine Thyme Spritz Cocktail Recipe

Whenever I’m craving something fresh and easy, I almost always reach for citrus. Tangerine just has this bright, juicy sweetness that plays so well with herbs, and thyme brings in a little earthy edge that keeps things from getting boring.

This cocktail? It’s a simple way to whip up a party drink that looks and tastes impressive but doesn’t take much effort at all.

I love how this spritz fits both a low-key night and a get-together with friends. The sparkling bubbles, the punchy tangerine, and that hint of thyme—somehow it’s light and flavorful at the same time.

You don’t need fancy steps or weird ingredients. Just a handful of basics, and you’re good to go.

I’ll walk you through what you need, how to put it all together, and what flavors you can expect. It’s a straightforward cocktail with a crisp, citrusy taste and a little herbal surprise.

Tangerine Thyme Spritz Cocktail Recipe

I keep coming back to this drink because the citrus and herbs really balance each other out. It’s refreshing, but the aperitifs give it enough depth that it doesn’t feel flat.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker – I use this to mix the juice and aperitif before adding the bubbles.
• Fine mesh strainer – This gets rid of any pulp from the tangerine juice.
• Bar spoon – I stir gently so the soda doesn’t lose its fizz.
• Measuring jigger – I like accurate pours to keep the flavors right.
• Cutting board and knife – I slice kumquats or tangerines for garnish.
• Highball or stemmed glass – Tall glasses hold the ice and soda best.
• Small saucepan – Handy if I’m making thyme syrup.
• Muddler – Perfect for pressing fresh thyme sprigs to release their aroma.

Ingredients

• 2 oz freshly squeezed tangerine juice
• 1 oz Aperol or another bitter orange aperitif
• 1 oz Lillet Blanc (optional, for a floral note)
• 3 oz club soda or sparkling water
• ½ oz thyme simple syrup (sugar, water, and thyme sprigs)
• Ice cubes to fill the glass
• Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
• Tangerine slices or kumquats for garnish

I always stick with fresh citrus—bottled juice just doesn’t do it for me. The thyme syrup brings a gentle herbal sweetness that doesn’t take over the drink.

Instructions

• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add tangerine juice, Aperol, Lillet Blanc, and thyme syrup.
• Shake lightly for about 10 seconds just to chill it.
• Strain into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.
• Top with club soda and stir gently with a bar spoon.
• Garnish with a sprig of thyme and a slice of tangerine or kumquat.
• Serve right away while it’s still cold and fizzy.

I never shake with soda—nobody wants flat bubbles. Stirring at the end keeps everything lively.

Notes

Honestly, this spritz just tastes best with freshly squeezed juice. The flavor’s brighter and less sugary. If tangerines are out of season, I’ll grab mandarins or clementines instead.

Sometimes I skip the Lillet Blanc for a lighter drink, or add it in if I want a little extra complexity.

The thyme syrup keeps in the fridge for about a week. I usually make a small batch so it’s always fresh.

If you like things a little less sweet, just use less syrup or leave it out. The juice alone usually brings enough natural sugar to keep the drink balanced.

Tasting Notes

That first sip? It hits bright and refreshing, honestly. Tangerine brings in this sweet citrus vibe—juicy, not heavy at all. It kind of takes me back to peeling a fresh orange at the kitchen counter.

Thyme steps in with a soft herbal touch. It doesn’t take over, just adds a gentle earthiness. I notice it lingers quietly after each sip, which I actually like.

Those bubbles from the spritz? They make everything feel crisp and alive. They really help keep things from getting too sweet, which is a win in my book.

Flavor highlights I taste:

• Sweet citrus from tangerine
• Fresh herbal notes from thyme
• Light sparkle from bubbles

The aroma grabs me too. I catch the thyme right away, tangled up with bright citrus. Even before tasting, it just smells fresh.

Honestly, the balance feels simple and clean. Sweetness, herbs, fizz—they all hang out together, and nothing really takes over. It’s the kind of drink I’d reach for on a warm day.