The Scotch Spritz: A Refreshing Australian Twist
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or complete beginner this recipe is for you!
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I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades.
The past 15 years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavor combinations, and learning a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide.
In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.
So, grab your shaker, dust off your favorite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.
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The Scotch Spritz: A Refreshing Australian Twist on a Classic
The Scotch Spritz blends whisky tradition with a fresh, bubbly style perfect for warm afternoons or casual get-togethers. This cocktail switches out the usual gin or prosecco for smooth Scotch, pairing it with crisp sparkling water and a touch of citrus. The result is a drink that’s lighter than whisky neat but still full of character. I enjoy making this for friends who usually think they don’t like whisky, since it’s approachable, easy to sip, and feels right for the Australian climate.
The recipe uses familiar ingredients found in most bottle shops and supermarkets across Australia. The spritz is easy to adjust to your taste, whether you want something sweeter, sharper, or with a herbal twist. You can put your own spin on this drink or stick to the basics for a crowd pleaser. I love how flexible it is, and it always brings a touch of class without the need for fancy bar tools.
What Makes the Scotch Spritz Worth Trying?
- No specialist bar gear needed. All you need is a glass, a spoon, and a few fresh ingredients.
- Easy to adjust. Try different citrus, vary the sweetness, or use your favourite mixer or whisky style.
- Surprising, smooth flavour. Scotch’s smoky or malty notes mix beautifully with soda and a hint of fruit.
- Refreshing and not too strong. Perfect for day drinking, summer barbecues, or anyone who prefers lighter cocktails.
- Great for sharing. Make a batch in a jug for gatherings or individual serves for smaller groups.
Ingredients –
Here’s what I use when mixing a Scotch Spritz at home. This recipe makes one drink, but you can multiply it for larger groups.
- 45 ml blended Scotch whisky (choose a mild style for best results)
- 90 ml chilled soda water or sparkling mineral water
- 20 ml elderflower cordial, orange syrup, or simple sugar syrup
- 15 ml fresh lemon juice, strained
- Ice cubes (enough to fill the glass)
- Orange wheel or lemon slice for garnish
- Optional: A sprig of fresh mint or rosemary for a fragrant twist
How to Make a Scotch Spritz – My Step-by-Step Process
1. Gather Everything You Need
I start by making sure I’ve got fresh citrus and good quality soda water straight from the fridge. Get your measuring jigger or a shot glass ready, plus a tall highball glass or stemless wine glass. A long spoon will help with stirring.
2. Build Over Ice
Fill your glass with plenty of ice. This keeps the drink cool and adds a cleaner taste as you sip. Pour the Scotch directly over the ice, followed by your syrup or cordial and the fresh lemon juice for a layered flavour base.
3. Top Up and Stir
Slowly add the chilled soda water or sparkling mineral water. Stir gently from the bottom up just to combine. This keeps the fizz lively and stops the cocktail from going flat.
4. Add the Finishing Touches
Slip an orange wheel or a lemon slice into the glass for a bright, fresh finish. If you enjoy a herby aroma, tuck in a small sprig of mint or rosemary. Give it a quick swirl and serve straight away.
Tips and Variations for a Perfect Scotch Spritz
- If you prefer a slightly sweeter drink, increase the syrup or cordial by 5 to 10 ml. Try not to mask the whisky—just enough for balance.
- For extra bite, muddle a thin slice of fresh ginger at the bottom of the glass before adding ice.
- A splash of quality tonic water adds more bitterness if you want a drink closer to a whisky and tonic.
- Classic single malt whiskies with heavier smoke or peat can make the drink more robust, though I usually stick to blended Scotch for a gentle mix.
- Switch lemon juice for ruby grapefruit or even lime to change up the citrus note.
- To serve a group, just multiply the recipe and pour into a large jug or pitcher.
Your Most Common Scotch Spritz Questions Answered
Can I use any whisky?
Blended Scotch tends to work best since it’s smoother and less intense than single malts with lots of peat or sherry cask notes. Bourbon or Irish whiskey can be used if you prefer, but the flavour profile shifts.
What’s the best time to serve this drink?
I usually make the Scotch Spritz for afternoon gatherings, weekend lunches, or relaxed cocktail hours. It suits both hot summer days and mild evenings, especially when you want something lighter than most whisky cocktails.
How strong is the Scotch Spritz?
With Australian measurements and plenty of mixer, the alcohol content is moderate. The Scotch provides depth and warmth, but once it’s mixed with soda and citrus, it stays light and refreshing—you can sip more than one without feeling overwhelmed.
Can I skip the sweetener?
If you want a drier cocktail, you can skip the syrup or cordial. Just add a little more citrus so the drink still pops with flavour.
Any nonalcoholic options?
For a zero alcohol version, use an alcoholfree whisky alternative or substitute the Scotch for cold black tea. The taste won’t be identical, but you still get the malt and a touch of spice alongside that refreshing fizz.
More Ways to Steer Your Scotch Spritz
This cocktail isn’t only versatile but a great way to add your own personality. Want a local twist? Swapping in finger lime or Davidson plum cordial—or using an Australian whisky—can give it a regional vibe. Adding a splash of ginger beer instead of soda makes it warmer, while muddling in basil or thyme replaces mint or rosemary for more herbal complexity.
You could also rim the glass lightly with citrus zest and sugar for visual flair and extra aroma, or freeze berries into your ice cubes for a slowreleasing hit of colour and tartness. The possibilities are as broad as your drinks cabinet.
My Best Serving Suggestions
The Scotch Spritz is at its best in a tall glass, filled with ice and finished with a juicy garnish. It pairs well with bar snacks, cheeseboards, and light finger foods. I like to serve it with fresh olives, mixed nuts, or local cheeses when friends drop by. For extra style, freeze citrus wheels ahead of time and use them in place of plain ice cubes.
This cocktail works at any occasion where you might serve an Aperol Spritz, gin and tonic, or classic white wine. It keeps your guests on their toes with something unexpected but hasslefree. For picnics or gatherings, batch this in a jug and bring along a bag of ice and sliced citrus for quick pours without fuss.
Give the Scotch Spritz a Go!
Mix up a Scotch Spritz and see how whisky can play with bubbles and citrus. Whether you stick to the recipe or put your own twist on it, this is a drink that’s all about creativity and relaxed enjoyment. If you test out this cocktail, I’d love to know your thoughts or hear about your favourite add-ins or variations. Set the vibe at your next get-together with the fresh sparkle of the Scotch Spritz in hand
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Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/
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