Sparkling Suze Wildflower Cocktail

Say cheers to warm weather with this sparkling suze wildflower cocktail 🥂🌸! The perfect beverage for al fresco dining, this drink is a delightful blend of floral and citrus flavors with a gin base, some elderflower liqueur, a little pamplemousse, a splash of suze, and topped with a prosecco float.

As the weather warms, it's time for a cocktail switch up! During the chilly autumn and winter months, I use whiskey as my cocktail base. However, once springtime hits, I like to lighten up happy hour by switching over to gin. Ergo, my newest iteration: the sparkling suze wildflower cocktail! A refreshing mix of floral and citrus flavors that is perfect for any spring or summer gathering, rain or shine.

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What is Suze?
Ingredients
Tips for Serving
FAQs About This Recipe
Sparkling Suze Wildflower Cocktail

What is Suze?

Suze is a small batch French aperitif liqueur with a vibrant floral and herbal flavor profile. Made from gentian root, it has a somewhat fruity taste but is mostly on the bitter side. Personally, I find it extremely refreshing! Not nearly as bitter as aperol and perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness. Oh and the best part? It's BRIGHT yellow!

Ingredients

To create this bubbly, floral, delightful sparkling suze wildflower cocktail, you'll need six main ingredients and an optional garnish.

A gin base - I used Aviation Gin, although a spiced Gn like Bombay Sapphire would also be delicious.
Suze - Obviously. Gotta have it. It has a very specific flavor!
Elderflower liqueur - I like to use St. Germain.
Sweet citrus liqueur - Couple options here. I used Giffard Pamplemousse but you could also use Cointreau, Limoncello, or even Triple Sec.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Prosecco/sparkling wine for the float.
ALL the edible flowers for garnishing!

It's also super easy to make. Just toss all the ingredients together in a shaker with ice, shake shake shake, pour, garnish, and enjoy!

Tips for Serving

Mixing: Ensure that the cocktail is properly mixed before pouring. Pour all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice. Secure the lid and shake until the outside is frosted over.

Chilling: Now, when you're about to pour a sparkling Suze wildflower cocktail, make sure your glass is chilled. You can either place them in the freezer for a few minutes or fill them with ice water while you mix the cocktail. Just make sure to pour out the ice water before serving!

Garnishing: Finally, when it comes to garnishes, grab a slice of lemon and some edible flowers. Can't find them? A small sprig of thyme or rosemary will also work!

FAQs About This Recipe

What is Suze?

Fair question 😆. Suze is a French bitter liqueur usually enjoyed as an aperitif. Made from gentian root, it has a slightly bitter and floral flavor, perfect for adding depth to cocktails! For more info, scroll back up to the "what is suze?" section.

Can I use a different type of sparkling wine?

Absolutely! While I used Prosecco, you can use any type of sparkling wine you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor and sweetness level may vary depending on what type of sparkling wine you choose. Try to stick to a drier option if possible (unless you prefer a sweeter beverage!).

Do I have to use edible flowers?

Nope! I just love them 🌸. They're a garnish and are definitely optional. If you don't have access to edible flowers or prefer not to use them, try garnishing with a slice of lemon or a sprig of herbs (rosemary, thyme, mint...). Or just skip the garnish entirely!

Ready to get your al fresco happy hour on?? Let's do it! The sparkling Suze wildflower cocktail is the perfect way to celebrate the warm weather. With its unique blend of floral and citrus flavors, it's sure to be a hit at any (indoor OR outdoor) gathering. Mix up a batch of this delightful cocktail and enjoy the sunshine with your friends and family. Scroll down for the recipe 🍹!