Nasturtium Tangerine Spritz
A refreshing, garden-inspired cocktail combining the peppery bite of nasturtium flowers with sweet tangerine juice and bubbles. This visually stunning spritz balances floral, citrus, and herbaceous notes for a sophisticated yet easy-to-make signature drink.
Ingredients
- 12-15 fresh nasturtium flowers plus extra for garnish (look for vibrant colors without blemishes)
- 4 oz freshly squeezed tangerine juice about 2-3 tangerines
- 2 oz white vermouth Dolin Blanc recommended
- 1 oz elderflower liqueur St. Germain or similar
- 4 oz prosecco or sparkling wine
- 2 oz soda water
- Ice cubes
- Tangerine slices for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the nasturtium infusion by gently muddling 10-12 nasturtium flowers in the bottom of a cocktail shaker, pressing just enough to release their oils without completely crushing them. The goal is to extract flavor, not pulverize the delicate petals.
- Add the tangerine juice, vermouth, and elderflower liqueur to the shaker with the muddled flowers. Fill the shaker halfway with ice cubes.
- Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty. This not only chills the mixture perfectly but also helps incorporate the nasturtium’s subtle peppery notes throughout the cocktail.
- Double-strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into two ice-filled highball or wine glasses, dividing it evenly. The fine straining ensures no flower fragments end up in your finished drink.
- Top each glass with equal parts prosecco and soda water (about 2 oz prosecco and 1 oz soda water per glass), pouring slowly down the side of the glass to preserve the bubbles.
- Garnish each drink with a nasturtium flower and tangerine slice, placing them gently on top of the cocktail or on the rim of the glass for visual impact.
Notes
- Nasturtium flowers have a natural peppery flavor similar to arugula or watercress—taste one before mixing to understand the intensity you’re working with.
- For a non-alcoholic version, replace the vermouth with white grape juice, the elderflower liqueur with elderflower syrup, and the prosecco with a quality sparkling water.
- If using nasturtiums from your garden, harvest them in the morning when their flavors are most vibrant, and rinse them gently before use.
- The cocktail base (before adding prosecco and soda) can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated, making it perfect for entertaining.