Tangerine Red Wine Spritzer Recipe for Refreshing Summer Drinks

This red wine tangerine spritzer is a festive, low-ABV drink that’s ideal for holiday gatherings or a quiet evening at home. It’s an easy, refreshing cocktail made with red wine, tangerine (or orange) juice, a touch of maple syrup, and soda water. Garnish with tangerine wheels and a sprig of rosemary for a bright, lightly boozy treat.

I enjoy a seasonally themed cocktail, but sometimes I want something sparkling and light that won’t lead to overindulgence. Low-alcohol cocktails are perfect for long evenings, relaxed gatherings, or when you simply prefer a gentler sip.

This red wine tangerine spritzer fits the bill: it’s bubbly, citrusy, subtly sweet, layered with flavor, and easy to prepare.

What is a red wine spritzer?

A classic red wine spritzer is simply red wine mixed with soda water and sometimes a fruit garnish. The word “spritzer” comes from the German spritzen, meaning to spray or splash. Spritzers can be made with red or white wine and are popular across Europe in warm weather.

This version is inspired by several spritzers I’ve enjoyed—most notably the Spanish tinto de verano, which mixes red wine with a lemon-lime soda. For a holiday twist I added maple syrup, tangerine juice, and rosemary to create a festive, refreshing drink with depth and warmth.

Why you’ll love this red wine tangerine spritzer

This low-alcohol spritzer is:

• Festive
• Fruity
• Complex
• Lightly sweetened
• Bubbly
• Easy to make
• Perfect for the holidays
• Delicious

Red wine tangerine spritzer ingredients

This spritzer uses basic ingredients but looks and tastes elevated with a few simple garnishes.

(Full recipe at the bottom.)

Ingredients:

• Red wine – Any red you enjoy works. I’ve used light pinot noir and a juicier cabernet with equally pleasing results.
• Tangerine juice – Fresh tangerine juice is ideal; orange juice is a fine substitute.
• Maple syrup – A small amount adds gentle sweetness and cozy, warm notes.
• Soda water – Club soda or a citrus-flavored sparkling water both work well.
• Garnish – Tangerine wheels and rosemary sprigs for aroma and presentation.

What tools do I need to make this cocktail?

A few simple bar tools make the process easiest, but you can improvise if needed. Don’t skip shaking the cocktail; shaking aerates the mixture and creates a frothy, well-blended base for the spritzer.

Helpful tools:

• Cocktail shaker (or a sealed jar)
• Strainer, if your shaker doesn’t include one
• A jigger or measuring spoons for accuracy

How to make this red wine tangerine spritzer

The recipe makes one cocktail and comes together quickly. Most shakers can handle a double or triple batch if you’re serving guests.

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Gather the ingredients

Prepare the red wine, tangerine or orange juice, maple syrup, soda water, and your tools.

Step 2: Combine and shake

Add the red wine, tangerine juice, and maple syrup to a cocktail shaker with ice (exclude the soda water). Shake vigorously for at least 15 seconds until the mixture is frothy and chilled.

Step 3: Strain and top

Strain the chilled base into a glass and top with about 3 ounces of cold soda water for a bubbly finish.

Step 4: Garnish and serve

Garnish with a tangerine wheel and a sprig of rosemary, then serve immediately.

When to serve this red wine tangerine spritzer

This spritzer works well as:

• An aperitif
• A holiday or seasonal cocktail
• A light drink for dinner parties or happy hour
• An after-dinner refresher

Recipe