Description of this recipe: The Cranberry Sage Spritz is a delightful and sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktail, perfect for holiday gatherings, celebratory brunches, or simply a refreshing treat on a warm day. This recipe combines the tartness of cranberry juice, the bright citrus notes of orange, the herbaceous aroma of sage, and the effervescence of sparkling white grape juice to create a layered and complex flavor profile. It’s visually stunning, easy to make, and a fantastic alternative to alcoholic beverages.

Why you will love this recipe:

• Festive and Flavorful: The Cranberry Sage Spritz is bursting with vibrant flavors that evoke the spirit of the holidays. The combination of cranberry and sage is a classic pairing that is both comforting and sophisticated.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this mocktail can be whipped up in minutes, making it perfect for impromptu gatherings or when you need a quick and delicious drink.
• Visually Appealing: The deep red hue of the cranberry juice, the bright orange zest, and the delicate green sage leaves create a visually stunning drink that is sure to impress your guests.
• Non-Alcoholic and Inclusive: This recipe is perfect for those who are abstaining from alcohol, pregnant, or simply prefer a non-alcoholic option. It ensures that everyone can enjoy a festive and flavorful drink at your celebrations.
• Versatile: The Cranberry Sage Spritz can be easily customized to suit your preferences. You can adjust the sweetness, tartness, or herbal notes by adding more or less of the ingredients.

Introduction

The Cranberry Sage Spritz is more than just a drink; it’s an experience. It’s the taste of crisp autumn evenings, the scent of holiday gatherings, and the feeling of festive cheer. This recipe is designed to be simple yet elegant, using fresh ingredients to create a mocktail that is both delicious and visually appealing. The key to a perfect Cranberry Sage Spritz is the balance of flavors – the tartness of the cranberry juice is balanced by the sweetness of the orange and the sparkling grape juice, while the sage adds a subtle herbal note that elevates the drink to a new level.

This spritz is incredibly versatile, lending itself perfectly to various occasions. Serve it at your next holiday party as a sophisticated alternative to traditional cocktails, or enjoy it as a refreshing pick-me-up on a hot summer day. It’s also a fantastic option for brunch, adding a touch of elegance to your weekend spread. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients:

• 100ml (approximately 3.5 ounces) Cranberry Juice (pure, unsweetened is best)
• ½ Orange, juiced
• 6 Fresh Sage Leaves
• Around 4 Ice Cubes
• 80ml (approximately 2.7 ounces) Sparkling White Grape Juice (or other sparkling non-alcoholic beverage)

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Glasses

First, chill two champagne coupes or wine glasses in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. Chilled glasses will help keep the spritz cold and refreshing for longer. While the glasses are chilling, juice half an orange and gather your other ingredients. Prepare 6 fresh sage leaves by washing them gently and patting them dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Combine the Cranberry and Orange Juice

Pour 50ml (approximately 1.75 ounces) of cranberry juice into each of the chilled champagne coupes or wine glasses. Then, divide the freshly squeezed orange juice evenly between the two glasses. Use a spoon or cocktail stirrer to gently combine the cranberry juice and orange juice in each glass. This initial mixing will ensure a more balanced flavor profile in the final spritz.

Step 3: Add the Sage and Ice

Add 3 fresh sage leaves to each glass. Gently bruise the sage leaves by pressing them lightly with your fingers to release their aromatic oils. Be careful not to crush the leaves, as this can release a bitter flavor. Add a few ice cubes to each glass, enough to chill the mixture without diluting it too much.

Step 4: Top with Sparkling White Grape Juice

Top each glass with 40ml (approximately 1.35 ounces) of sparkling white grape juice. Pour slowly to prevent the drink from overflowing. The sparkling grape juice adds effervescence and sweetness to the spritz, creating a delightful fizzy texture.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish each spritz with a fresh sage leaf or a small orange wedge on the rim of the glass. Serve immediately and enjoy the festive flavors of the Cranberry Sage Spritz!

COOKING Rating:

• Ease: Very Easy
• Time: Quick
• Flavor: Tart, Sweet, Herbal, Refreshing

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a festive mocktail at holiday gatherings, parties, or brunches.
• Pair with appetizers such as cheese and crackers, fruit platters, or mini quiches.
• Garnish with fresh cranberries, orange zest, or a sprig of rosemary for an extra touch of elegance.
• Serve in champagne flutes or wine glasses for a sophisticated presentation.
• Enjoy as a refreshing non-alcoholic alternative to traditional cocktails.

Tips:

• Use high-quality cranberry juice for the best flavor. Pure, unsweetened cranberry juice is recommended.
• Adjust the amount of sparkling white grape juice to taste, depending on your preferred level of sweetness.
• Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for a unique twist on the classic Cranberry Sage Spritz.
• For a more intense sage flavor, muddle the sage leaves gently before adding them to the glass.
• If you don’t have sparkling white grape juice, you can substitute with sparkling water or club soda and add a splash of simple syrup to sweeten.
• Make a large batch ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Add the sparkling white grape juice just before serving to maintain the fizz.

Prep Time:

5 minutes

Cook Time:

0 minutes

Total Time:

5 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

(Note: These are approximate values and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)

• Calories: Approximately 60-80
• Protein: Less than 1 gram
• Sodium: Varies depending on the cranberry juice and sparkling white grape juice used

Conclusion

The Cranberry Sage Spritz is a delightful and refreshing mocktail that is perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant flavors, easy preparation, and elegant presentation, it is sure to be a hit with your guests. This recipe is a testament to the fact that non-alcoholic drinks can be just as exciting and flavorful as their alcoholic counterparts. So, go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!

Questions and Answers About the Cranberry Sage Spritz:

Q1: Can I use frozen cranberries instead of cranberry juice?

A1: While you could technically use frozen cranberries to make a cranberry juice reduction, it’s generally not recommended for this recipe. The process would involve simmering the cranberries with water and sugar, then straining the mixture. This can be time-consuming and may not result in the same vibrant flavor as using high-quality cranberry juice. It’s best to stick with prepared cranberry juice for consistency and ease.

Q2: I don’t have sage. What other herbs could I use?

A2: If you don’t have sage, you can experiment with other herbs to add a unique flavor to the spritz. Rosemary and thyme are both excellent alternatives that pair well with cranberry and orange. Just remember to use a light hand, as these herbs can be quite potent. A sprig or two of either rosemary or thyme should be sufficient. You could even try a few fresh mint leaves for a different but equally refreshing twist.

Q3: Can I make this spritz ahead of time?

A3: Yes, you can prepare the cranberry juice and orange juice mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to add the sparkling white grape juice and ice just before serving to maintain the fizz and prevent the drink from becoming diluted. You can also prepare the sage leaves and have them ready to go.

Q4: What kind of sparkling white grape juice should I use?

A4: Look for a sparkling white grape juice that is made with 100% grape juice and has no added sugars or artificial sweeteners. This will ensure the purest and most natural flavor. There are many brands available, so choose one that you enjoy. You can also substitute with other sparkling non-alcoholic beverages, such as sparkling cider or club soda with a splash of simple syrup.

Q5: How can I make this spritz sweeter?

A5: If you prefer a sweeter spritz, you can add a small amount of simple syrup or agave nectar to the cranberry juice and orange juice mixture. Start with a teaspoon and add more to taste. You can also use a sweeter variety of sparkling white grape juice. Another option is to muddle a few fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, at the bottom of the glass before adding the other ingredients. This will add both sweetness and a beautiful color.