By Alison Bailin Batz
Tickle the tastebuds this spring by indulging in a cocktail that brings together sultry spirits, spring fruits and sparkling wine. Here are some sensational suggestions on where to start.
House 54
Mon Cheri
Available in a glass adorned with a swan or served in a mini novelty purse for added visual appeal, this is a beautiful blend of rose-infused Hendrick’s Gin, cucumber, apricot liqueur, simple syrup, and fresh lemon. Before it comes to the table, it is topped with sparkling wine to add a touch of bubbly effervescence. $20. www.moncherirestaurants.com.
Sangarita
Snooze A.M. Eatery
This fruit-forward cocktail combines Espolòn Tequila, strawberry coulis, elderflower liqueur, house sour mix, fresh strawberries, and blackberries with Snooze’s own proprietary sparkling wine. It is served on the rocks with a handful of fresh blackberries and sliced strawberries. $12.25. www.snoozeeatery.com.
Sonoran Spritz
Ironwood American Kitchen at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
Bold yet refreshing, Aperol and sparkling wine dominate the palate in this orange dream, complemented by a hint of sparkling water and both orange zest and rind, which provide aromatics and a colorful 3D garnish. $13. www.scottsdaleprincess.com.
Patio Bubbles
Kona Grill
Light and bright, Patio Bubbles combines mango-infused vodka with delicate and slightly sweet La Marca Prosecco, known for its notes of honey, ripe citrus, lemon, green apple, and touches of grapefruit. Spring in a glass, it practically glows as it comes to the table with its vibrant peach hue, and, once enjoyed, it finishes light and crisp. $14. www.konagrill.com.
Mi Amor
The Mexicano
This pink pastel margarita is served up on the rocks with blanco tequila. To make the masterpiece, tequila is poured into a shaker with triple sec; agave; strawberry; and lychee, which is a sweet fruit juice with notes of citrus and watermelon. Once strained into the glass with a salted rim, it is given a float of cava, which is a Spanish sparkling wine, and it is garnished with edible flowers. $14. www.themexicano.com.
Jet Set
Fat Ox
Dry Champagne is the star of the show in this glass. It is paired with vodka that has been infused with sweetened pomegranate and warming cinnamon, coming together to add a sweet-yet-tart spice that elevates the Champagne to another level. It is served in a glass with a cinnamon-sugar rim, and garnished with a stunning orchid, which provides dreamy spring aromatics. $18. www.ilovefatox.com.
Senna Spritza
Cala Scottsdale
The Senna Spritz is a delightful concoction blending the vibrant flavors of Marie Brizard Watermelon Syrup with Lillet Blanc, an aromatized wine infused with fruits and botanicals. Once combined, Chareau, a plant-based aloe-flavored liqueur, and its notes of cucumber, honeydew and mint are added. Once strained into a glass, it is topped with bubbly prosecco. $18. www.calascottsdale.com.
Sorbet Mimosa
Beginner’s Luck
A traditional mimosa with a twist, this stunning glass of sparkling wine is topped with a heaping scoop of fresh, locally made sorbet, which acts as the “juice” of sorts in the cocktail. The sorbet acts almost like a floating popsicle of flavor, perfect for the warmer days of spring. $12. www.beginnersluckaz.com.