Cucumber Earl Grey Gin Spritz – From Tea to Tipple!

The weekend’s finally here, and I can’t wait to whip up something new — Cucumber Earl Grey Gin Spritz!

My fiancé and I are passionate about cocktails, so experimenting with this drink at home feels like our little adventure. There’s something so satisfying about mixing up something special together, especially when it promises to be as refreshing and unique as this. Can’t wait to share it with you all!

The way the fragrant Earl Grey tea mingles with the crispness of cucumber and the smoothness of gin is truly something special. Sweetened with a touch of honey and topped off with Prosecco and fresh mint leaves, it’s the kind of drink that makes you pause and savor every sip.

So, if you’re looking for something unique and refreshing, this recipe is a must-try — it’s like a sophisticated escape in a glass!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a quiet evening or a gathering with friends, this spritz fits seamlessly into any setting.
• Fun to Make: The process of crafting this cocktail is enjoyable, allowing you to experiment and play with flavors.
• Elegant Presentation: Garnished with fresh mint leaves, this drink looks as beautiful as it tastes, making it a showstopper for any occasion.
• Healthier Sweetener: Sweetened with honey instead of sugar, it offers a more natural and subtle sweetness.
• Versatile Pairing: This spritz pairs well with a variety of appetizers, making it a versatile choice for entertaining.

Ingredients

Start with Earl Grey tea; its distinct flavor comes from the bergamot, an aromatic citrus fruit, which adds a sophisticated and slightly floral note to the drink. It’s important to brew the tea strong enough so that its flavor holds up against the other ingredients, and letting it cool completely ensures that it blends smoothly into the cocktail.

When it comes to gin, select one with botanical notes that complement the tea. A gin with a bright, citrus-forward profile will harmonize beautifully with the bergamot in the Earl Grey.

The cucumber adds a refreshing, crisp element, so opt for a fresh, firm cucumber to ensure it imparts the cleanest flavor.

As for honey, it serves as a natural sweetener, offering a richer taste than simple syrup and adding a touch of warmth that balances the gin’s sharpness.

Fresh mint leaves, used as a garnish, don’t just add visual appeal—they release their aroma as you sip, enhancing the overall experience of the drink.

Finally, Prosecco sparkling wine brings some light, bubbly effervescence, and a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the bold, botanical notes of gin. Prosecco’s moderate alcohol content also adds a balanced kick to the spritz, making it an ideal choice for creating a lively, celebratory drink that’s perfect for social occasions.

Ingredients for making a Cucumber Earl Grey Gin Spritz:

• 1 cup Earl Grey tea (brewed and cooled)
• 2 oz gin
• 1/4 cup cucumber slices
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish
• Prosecco (or other sparkling wine)

How to Make Cucumber Earl Grey Gin Spritz

Instructions for making a Cucumber Earl Grey Gin Spritz:

1. Brew the Tea: Start by brewing a strong cup of Earl Grey tea. Let it steep for about 5 minutes, then remove the tea bag or strain the leaves. Allow the tea to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cucumber: While the tea cools, slice the cucumber thinly. Set aside a few slices for garnish, and use the rest in the next step.
3. Mix the Drink: In a shaker, combine the cooled Earl Grey tea, gin, cucumber slices, and honey. Shake well to mix and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain and Serve: Fill a glass with ice cubes and strain the mixture into the glass so that it’s not completely full, discarding the cucumber slices. Then top off with Prosecco sparkling wine.
5. Garnish: Add the reserved cucumber slices and a sprig of fresh mint to the drink.
6. Enjoy: Your Cucumber Earl Grey Gin Spritz is ready to sip and enjoy!

Recommendations & Alternatives

• Experiment with different tea varieties like jasmine or green tea for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
• Add a splash of fresh lemon juice for a bright, citrusy kick that complements the bergamot in the Earl Grey.
• For a non-alcoholic version, replace gin with tonic water or sparkling lemonade for a refreshing mocktail.
• Try garnishing with a twist of lemon peel in addition to mint for an extra aromatic flourish that elevates the drink’s presentation.
• For a subtle smokiness, consider using a smoky Earl Grey tea as the base, which adds an intriguing depth to the cocktail.