Sunday, December 4, 2011

Blood Orange Spritzer


When it comes to hosting family-friendly holiday parties, few think of offering alcoholic and non-alcoholic variations of the same drink. We developed this blood-orange flavored soda with children, and those who don't imbibe, in mind.
Inspired by the fresh flavors and vibrant colors of blood oranges, which appear in markets just before Christmas, and the unique shape of the red glass bottles of Solerno, this cocktail is simple to make, while the slightly sweet citrus flavor is both refreshing and satisfying.

Solerno is a clear Sicilian blood orange liqueur, made from whole blood orange fruit and essential oils. The bottle is a deep red, like the flesh of a blood orange, and takes on a unique design — the bottom features a punt (the indent on wine bottles) that resembles an orange juice strainer. Just looking at the bottle may make you thirsty for a cocktail.

While the recipe below is for an adult version, you can leave out the liqueur and substitute in sparkling water for a kid-friendly blood orange soda. No one will know the difference.

Blood Orange Soda

2 ounces Solerno liqueur
4 ounces fresh-squeezed blood orange juice
Sparkling water, for topping (for an alcho
Blood orange slice, for garnish

Place three ice cubes in a white wine glass. Add liqueur, then juice. Top with prosecco and serve with a slice of blood orange floating on top.

Makes 1 drink

Photo credit: Flickr/Brianna.Lehman

No comments: