Prosecco is an Italian sparkling wine that often serves as the perfect base for light cocktails. The popularity of refreshing Prosecco-based drinks continues to grow, appearing not only on bar menus but also in home recipes. Creating your own Prosecco cocktail begins with understanding the various types of Prosecco.
By sweetness level, Prosecco is categorized into three types: Brut, Extra Dry, and Dry. The choice depends on your personal taste. Prosecco Brut is the driest, with the least sweetness. Prosecco Extra Dry offers a balance — moderately dry with a touch of sweetness. Surprisingly, Prosecco Dry, despite its name, is the sweetest of the three.
How to Choose Ingredients for a Prosecco Cocktail
Prosecco cocktails don’t require heavy or overpowering ingredients. It’s best to pair it with light liqueurs, herbs, juices, mild syrups, fruit, or even sparkling water. Good liqueur options include Aperol, Campari, or St-Germain. For syrups, opt for fruity or floral flavors that complement Prosecco’s aroma.
Fresh herbs highlight the wine’s subtle notes — mint, basil, ginger, or rosemary are all great choices. Citrus, berry, or tropical fruits and juices bring brightness and freshness to the cocktail.
Prosecco Brut works best with dry mixers like Aperol.
Prosecco Extra Dry or Dry is better suited for fruity cocktails.
Some of the most popular Prosecco cocktail combinations include the Aperol Spritz, Mimosa, and Hugo. While less common, equally refreshing options feature passion fruit or Prosecco mixed with Sprite.
Tips on Choosing Glassware and Serving Style
Tips on Choosing Glassware and Serving Style
The choice of glass is mainly dependent on the cocktail and plays a crucial role in presentation. Before serving, remember to chill not only the Prosecco (optimal temperature is 6–8°C) but also the glass itself.
- For cocktails like a Mimosa, a tall, narrow champagne flute is best, as it helps preserve the bubbles for a more extended period.
- For creamier Prosecco cocktails, a coupe glass is often used, as it is well-suited for stylish classic drinks.
- A simple, tall highball glass is perfect for an Aperol Spritz or Hugo.
- A low, wide old-fashioned glass is ideal for serving more potent, herb-infused cocktails.
Prosecco with Orange Juice (Mimosa)
The Mimosa, a drink made with Prosecco and orange juice, is the most classic fruity combination. It works beautifully not only in summer but also during cozy winter evenings.
Ingredients:
- 75 ml Prosecco
- 75 ml orange juice
- 2–3 orange slices
- 3–4 ice cubes
Preparation:
In a champagne flute (or a glass with ice), pour Prosecco first, then add orange juice, and garnish with orange slices.
Aperol Spritz — Prosecco with Aperol
The Aperol and Prosecco cocktail dates back to the early 20th century, created by the Barbieri brothers who first brought it to market. Its preparation is quick and simple, and the taste perfectly captures the spirit of Italian aperitivo culture.
The perfect Aperol Spritz is made with the following ingredients:
- Prosecco – 90 ml
- Aperol – 60 ml
- Sparkling water – 30 ml
- Ice – 3–4 cubes
- Orange – a slice for garnish
To make the Aperol and Prosecco cocktail, start by pouring Aperol into a glass filled with ice, then add Prosecco and sparkling water. Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.
It’s recommended to serve Aperol Spritz in a highball glass with a thick straw.
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Prosecco with Raspberries
While champagne is often paired with strawberries, Prosecco pairs wonderfully with raspberries. It may not be a classic, widely known cocktail, but it’s definitely worth trying.
Ingredients:
- 150 ml Prosecco
- 5–7 fresh raspberries
- 10 ml sugar syrup
- 3–4 ice cubes
Preparation:
Place raspberries in a champagne flute and gently mash them with a fork. Add sugar syrup and ice. Finally, pour in the Prosecco and garnish with fresh raspberries and a sprig of rosemary or mint.
