Packed with juicy clementines, herbal rosemary, and a gentle fizz, the Citrus and Rosemary Spritz Cocktail is a sunshine-bright sipper that feels as elegant as it is easy. This refreshing drink perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and botanical flavors—guaranteed to become a go-to for any gathering or solo treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Freshness: This Citrus and Rosemary Spritz Cocktail combines vibrant clementines, lemon, and rosemary for a crisp, citrusy flavor that always feels uplifting.
Simple, No-Fuss Preparation: No special tools needed—just a shaker (or even a jar!), making this the easiest way to bring a little cocktail magic to any weeknight.
Versatile and Customizable: It’s incredibly easy to swap in your favorite spirit or flavored sparkling water, so everyone at your table gets the perfect spritz.
Beautiful and Crowd-Pleasing: With its sunset-hued color and stunning rosemary garnish, it’s a showstopper for parties, brunches, or any sunny afternoon.

Citrus and Rosemary Spritz Cocktail Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of ingredients for the Citrus and Rosemary Spritz Cocktail, but each plays its own delicious role. Every component—fresh fruit, gin, and that dreamy rosemary simple syrup—brings a little something special to the glass!

2 Clementines: These add a sweet-tart note and a vibrant orange color—make sure they’re juicy for the best flavor.
6 leaves Fresh Rosemary: Their piney, herbal aroma infuses the cocktail with sophistication and depth.
1 Lemon: Lemon juice brings a zippy tartness that keeps the sweetness in check.
2 ounces Rosemary Simple Syrup: Using homemade syrup with fresh rosemary gives a bright, herbal twist and a kiss of sweetness.
3 ounces Gin: Choose your favorite gin—or substitute vodka or tequila for a different vibe.
Ice Cubes (about ½ cup, plus more for glasses): Essential for chilling and lightly diluting, making the spritz perfectly refreshing.
4 ounces Sparkling Water (such as Topo Chico): Sparkling water adds that “spritz” effect and lifts the citrus and botanicals; try a citrus-infused water for extra zing.
For Rosemary Simple Syrup: ¼ cup pure cane sugar, ¼ cup water, 1 fresh rosemary sprig—just simmer all together for a fragrant, sweet syrup.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Citrus and Rosemary Spritz Cocktail! The beauty of this drink is how easily you can tailor it to different spirits, flavor infusions, or dietary needs—there are so many ways to make it your own.

Make It Non-Alcoholic: Skip the gin and add a splash more sparkling water or use a botanical non-alcoholic spirit for a grown-up mocktail.
Swap Your Citrus: Try blood oranges or tangerines in place of clementines for a richer or tangier twist.
Herbal Experiments: Basil or thyme make interesting substitutes for rosemary, giving your spritz a new flavor profile.
Syrup Shortcuts: If you’re in a rush, classic simple syrup, agave nectar, or even honey will work as sweeteners—just add a pinch of fresh rosemary for flavor.

How to Make Citrus and Rosemary Spritz Cocktail

Step 1: Make the Rosemary Simple Syrup

Begin by combining pure cane sugar, water, and a hearty sprig of rosemary in a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar is fully melted and the rosemary has released its aromatic oils—just a couple minutes is enough! Set aside to let the syrup cool completely, infusing it with maximum herbal goodness.

Step 2: Muddle Fruit and Rosemary

Peel two clementines and toss them, along with six fresh rosemary leaves, into your cocktail shaker (or a jar with a tight-fitting lid). Muddle them well so the clementines burst with juice and the rosemary releases its signature scent—this is where that vibrant color and aroma truly begin!

Step 3: Shake and Serve

Add the juice of one lemon, your homemade rosemary simple syrup, gin, and a handful of ice to the shaker. Cap it and shake vigorously—this step not only chills and mixes your spritz, but also introduces tiny bubbles for a cloudier, lighter texture. Strain the mixture into glasses filled with fresh ice, top with sparkling water (I love Topo Chico!), and garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig.

Pro Tips for Making Citrus and Rosemary Spritz Cocktail

Fresh Citrus Makes the Difference: Choose plump, juicy clementines and a ripe lemon for the brightest, most vibrant flavor in your Citrus and Rosemary Spritz Cocktail.
Let Your Syrup Cool: Give your rosemary simple syrup time to cool fully so it melds seamlessly into the cocktail without melting the ice or muting flavors.
Shake, Don’t Stir: The shaking process incorporates air into your spritz, giving it that signature soft cloudiness and a livelier texture—well worth the extra step!
Choose Your Bubbles Wisely: Use high-quality sparkling water (like Topo Chico) for the crispest fizz—citrus-infused sparkling water can add an extra pop of flavor, too.

How to Serve Citrus and Rosemary Spritz Cocktail

Garnishes

A sprig of rosemary truly elevates the presentation and aroma of the Citrus and Rosemary Spritz Cocktail. Try adding a thin slice of clementine or lemon to the rim for extra color and an inviting, citrusy scent with every sip.

Side Dishes

This cocktail is wonderfully versatile—pair it with light appetizers like marinated olives, goat cheese crostini, or a citrusy salad. The spritz’s bright flavors also complement charcuterie boards and fresh seafood, making it a dream for brunch or happy hour.

Creative Ways to Present

Show off the gorgeous color by serving your Citrus and Rosemary Spritz Cocktail in stemless wine glasses or coupe glasses. For a party, assemble a spritz bar with citrus wheels, herb bouquets, and pretty paper straws, so everyone can decorate their own signature sip.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra spritz mixture (before adding sparkling water), store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Add fresh ice and sparkling water just before serving to keep things light and bubbly!

Freezing

Freezing isn’t ideal for the finished cocktail, but you can freeze the rosemary simple syrup in small portions—perfect for impromptu spritzes when citrus season calls.

Reheating

This cocktail is all about icy refreshment, so reheating isn’t needed. If your mixture has chilled for a while, just give it a good shake with fresh ice before topping with sparkling water and serving.

FAQs

Can I use different spirits in the Citrus and Rosemary Spritz Cocktail?

Absolutely! Gin brings botanical notes that pair beautifully with citrus and rosemary, but vodka creates a smoother, more neutral spritz, while tequila lends earthy undertones—use what you love or have on hand.
Do I need a cocktail shaker to make this?

No fancy equipment needed! A large jar with a tight-fitting lid works perfectly—just make sure you can seal it well for a good, vigorous shake.
What’s the best sparkling water for this spritz?

Topo Chico is a fan favorite for its intense bubbles and neutral taste, but any quality sparkling water—or citrus-infused sparkling water—works beautifully for a perfect fizz and extra flavor.
How do I make rosemary simple syrup ahead of time?

Simmer sugar, water, and a sprig of fresh rosemary for a few minutes, then cool completely; store the syrup in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week—ready for your next batch of Citrus and Rosemary Spritz Cocktails!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to brighten up your next gathering—or just infuse your afternoon with a little sparkle—the Citrus and Rosemary Spritz Cocktail is a deliciously easy way to celebrate the season. I hope it becomes a new favorite for you, too—cheers!

Citrus and Rosemary Spritz Cocktail Recipe