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This Midnight Sparkler Cocktail is a showstopper for celebrations and special evenings. Its blend of gin, vodka, fresh lime juice, and sparkling wine creates a crisp, bubbly sip that feels both indulgent and refreshing – perfect for toasting with friends or savoring solo.
I first discovered this recipe during a New Year’s Eve at home, and it's now a go-to cocktail for every holiday or gathering.
Ingredients
- Gin: Adds botanical depth and a slightly herbal note that pairs beautifully with citrus
- Vodka: Ensures smoothness without overpowering flavors
- Fresh lime juice: Brings bright acidity and freshness
- Simple syrup: Balances the tartness of the lime juice with just a touch of sweetness
- Chilled sparkling wine or prosecco: Adds effervescence to make it celebratory
- Lime wheel or twist: Elevates the cocktail’s aesthetic while adding a hint of aroma
- Ice cubes: Keep the drink perfectly chilled and enhance the mixing process
How To Make Midnight Sparkler Cocktail
- Fill the Shaker:
- Fill the cocktail shaker with ice cubes to help chill the mixture and dilute it slightly.
- Mix the Base:
- Add gin, vodka, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker for the cocktail’s essential foundation of flavors.
- Shake Vigorous Mixing:
- Shake the ingredients firmly for about 15 seconds until the shaker becomes frosty and cold, ensuring the flavors blend and chill properly.
- Strain the Mixture:
- Strain the mixture into a pre-chilled champagne flute to maintain the drink’s cool temperature without adding ice to the glass.
- Add Sparkling Wine:
- Pour the chilled sparkling wine or prosecco over the top, giving the cocktail a bubbly, festive finish.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Add a lime wheel or twist to complete the presentation and serve immediately while still effervescent.
The sparkling wine is my favorite part because it turns an otherwise simple cocktail into something extraordinary. Pairing it with a lime twist adds a beautiful citrus aroma that I always look for in a celebratory drink.
Storage Tips
While this cocktail is designed to be served immediately, you can pre-mix the gin, vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup up to a few hours in advance. Just store the mix in the refrigerator to keep it cold before combining with sparkling wine.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can replace gin with a citrus-forward gin or even triple sec if you want a sweeter variation. For a different style of sparkling wine, opt for cava or champagne to adjust the level of sweetness or dryness to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs wonderfully with light appetizers such as smoked salmon canapés, cheese platters, or oysters. Its light and fizzy nature complements savory and slightly salty dishes.
Whether you are raising a glass to toast a special occasion or winding down after a long day, the Midnight Sparkler is the perfect way to add some shine to your evening.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use champagne instead of prosecco?
Yes, champagne works as a great substitute for prosecco, adding a slightly different profile to the drink with more complex flavors.
- → What type of gin is best for this cocktail?
A dry gin with citrus or herbal undertones is an ideal choice as it complements the lime and enhances the overall flavor.
- → Is there a substitute for simple syrup?
You can use honey syrup or agave syrup as a substitute, but keep in mind they may slightly alter the flavor profile of the cocktail.
- → Can I skip the vodka in this recipe?
Yes, you can omit the vodka and adjust the gin proportion slightly if desired, though the original flavor balance may shift.
- → How do I chill the champagne flute before serving?
Place the flute in the freezer for a few minutes or fill it with ice water and discard before serving.