Sunstone Spritzer

The Sunstone Spritzer is a visually stunning mocktail, boasting a brilliant ruby-red hue reminiscent of its namesake gem. Its flavor profile is a delightful dance between sweet citrus from the blood orange and a complex, herbal undertone from a rosemary-infused syrup. A splash of grapefruit juice adds a bright, tart edge, all brought together with the lively effervescence of sparkling water, making it an exceptionally refreshing and elegant drink for any time of day.
Sunstone Spritzer

Preparation

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

The Sunstone Spritzer is classified as a contemporary mocktail. It falls into the broader category of non-alcoholic sparkling drinks, perfect for those seeking a sophisticated beverage without alcohol.

Serving

This non-alcoholic drink is served cold in a chilled Highball glass, making for a tall, refreshing sip. It is completely alcohol-free, suitable for all to enjoy.
Serving size
Approximately 240 ml / 8 oz
Alcohol content
0% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Highball
Glass treatment
Chilled glass

Backstory

Inspired by the warm, captivating glow of a sunstone, this drink was crafted to capture the essence of a perfect sunset in a glass. It was developed in the modern home bartending scene, where the demand for complex, flavorful, and beautiful non-alcoholic options has surged. The combination of seasonal blood orange and evergreen rosemary creates a drink that feels both special and timeless.
Origin
This is a contemporary creation, likely emerging from the mixology and home-barista communities in the early 21st century. It doesn't have a single point of origin but rather reflects a modern trend of using fresh herbs and juices to create sophisticated non-alcoholic beverages.

Sunstone Spritzer

The drink is primarily known as the Sunstone Spritzer. Alternative names like Blood Orange Rosemary Fizz or Ruby Rosemary Sparkler are descriptive, highlighting its key ingredients and vibrant color.
Original name
Sunstone Spritzer
Alternative names
  • Blood Orange Rosemary Fizz
  • Ruby Rosemary Sparkler

Characteristics overview

This drink presents a beautiful ruby color with a crisp, bubbly texture. Its flavor is a refreshing balance of sweet and sour citrus, complemented by a distinct herbal aroma from the rosemary.
Flavor
Fruity, Herbal, Sweet-tart, Citrusy, Refreshing
Aroma
Rosemary, Blood Orange, Fresh Citrus
Taste balance
Sweet, Sour
Aftertaste
Clean, Herbal, Lingering citrus
Fizziness
Sparkling, Bubbly, Effervescent
Color appearance
Deep orange-red, Ruby, Clear, Vibrant
Texture
Light, Crisp, Watery
Seasonality
Refreshing, Summery, All-season

Flavor intensity & Experience

The flavor profile is dominated by a pleasant fruitiness and moderate sweetness and sourness, with no alcohol and high carbonation. A slight bitterness from the grapefruit pith adds complexity without being overpowering.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

This recipe calls for fresh blood orange and grapefruit juice, a homemade rosemary simple syrup, and chilled sparkling water. Using fresh ingredients is key to achieving the drink's vibrant flavor and appearance.
  • Blood Orange Juice90 ml / 3 oz
    Freshly squeezed is highly recommended for the best flavor and color.
  • Rosemary Simple Syrup22.5 ml / 0.75 oz
    To make, simmer equal parts sugar and water with a few rosemary sprigs for 5-10 minutes, then cool and strain.
  • Grapefruit Juice15 ml / 0.5 oz
    Freshly squeezed pink or red grapefruit juice works best.
  • Sparkling WaterTop up, approximately 90-120 ml / 3-4 oz
    Chilled club soda or seltzer can also be used.

Ice type

  • Cubed

Mixing equipments

You will need a standard cocktail shaker set, including a jigger for measuring and a strainer, to properly mix and chill the ingredients before serving.
  • Cocktail shaker for chilling and mixing the juices and syrup.
  • Jigger or measuring cup for accurate measurements.
  • Strainer to pour the chilled mix over fresh ice.

Instructions

The method is simple: shake the juices and syrup with ice, strain into an ice-filled glass, and top with sparkling water. Finish with a beautiful garnish to complete the drink.
1. Chill your Highball glass by filling it with ice and water while you prepare the drink.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine the blood orange juice, rosemary simple syrup, and grapefruit juice.
3. Fill the shaker with ice, seal it, and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until well-chilled.
4. Discard the ice from your serving glass and fill it with fresh ice cubes.
5. Strain the mixture from the shaker into the prepared glass.
6. Top the drink with chilled sparkling water, leaving a little space at the top.
7. Gently stir once with a bar spoon to integrate the ingredients.
8. Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig and a blood orange wheel before serving.

Garnishing

Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig to enhance the aroma and a thin wheel of blood orange to complement the drink's main flavor and stunning color.
  • Rosemary sprig: Lightly slap the sprig against your hand to release its aromatic oils before placing it in the glass.
  • Blood orange wheel: A thin slice of blood orange placed inside the glass or on the rim for visual appeal.

Dietary Information

This mocktail is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and free from common allergens like dairy, eggs, soy, and nuts. It is also completely caffeine-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.
✕ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

This mocktail has a relatively low calorie count, with carbohydrates and sugars coming primarily from the natural fruit juices and the simple syrup. It is a lighter alternative to many sodas and cocktails.
Calories
Averagely 90-110 kcal / 377-460 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Averagely 22-26 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Averagely 20-24 g
Sugar level

Occasions

With its elegant appearance and refreshing taste, the Sunstone Spritzer is perfect for celebratory occasions like baby showers or brunches. It's also an ideal choice for a sophisticated afternoon refresher or a festive drink at any summer gathering.
  • Brunch
  • Baby Shower
  • Summer Party
  • Afternoon Refresher
  • Celebratory Toast

Pairing suggestions

The drink's citrus and herbal notes pair beautifully with light and fresh foods. It complements dishes like grilled chicken, seafood, and salads, and also serves as a wonderful counterpoint to creamy cheeses like goat cheese or brie.
  • Light salads with citrus vinaigrette
  • Goat cheese and prosciutto appetizers
  • Grilled chicken or fish
  • Fruit tarts and light desserts

The Sunstone Spritzer: A Sip of Sunset

The Sunstone Spritzer is an exceptional non-alcoholic choice for any occasion, combining elegance with refreshing, complex flavors. Its beautiful deep-red color is as delightful to the eyes as its taste is to the palate. The balance of sweet blood orange, tart grapefruit, and aromatic rosemary creates a sophisticated and memorable mocktail. Easy to prepare, it's a perfect way to elevate a simple gathering or celebrate a special moment without alcohol.

You May Also Like

Rosemary Berry Refresher

A vibrant, non-alcoholic sparkler blending the sweetness of mixed berries with the aromatic, piney notes of fresh rosemary.

Cucumber Jalapeño Cooler

A vibrant and spicy non-alcoholic cooler that perfectly balances the coolness of cucumber with a fiery kick of jalapeño.

Virgin Paloma

A zesty and refreshing alcohol-free take on the classic Paloma, balancing tart grapefruit, fresh lime, and bubbly soda.

Virgin Irish Coffee

A warming and cozy non-alcoholic drink that captures the essence of a classic Irish Coffee with rich coffee, a hint of whiskey flavor, and a creamy topping.

Have You Tried These Yet?

Festive Gingerbread Mule

A warm and spicy non-alcoholic take on the classic Moscow Mule, perfect for the holiday season.

Apple Ginger Sour Mocktail

A zesty and refreshing non-alcoholic sour that beautifully balances the crispness of apple with the warming spice of ginger.

Citrus Sage Serenity

A sophisticated and refreshing alcohol-free mocktail that beautifully balances tart grapefruit, earthy sage, and a touch of sweet honey, topped with crisp sparkling water.

Juniper Rose Fizz

An elegant and aromatic non-alcoholic spritzer that captures the botanical notes of gin and the delicate fragrance of rose without the alcohol.