9 Winter Spritzes for Cold-Weather Sipping

Although spritzes are commonly associated with summer aperitifs, plenty of versions suit the colder season - particularly those built around baking spices, citrus, and full-bodied amari. The formula adapts effortlessly for winter: sparkling wine or beer combines with bittersweet liqueurs, bold spirits, and warming syrups to make drinks that work equally well beside a blazing fire or at an intimate get-together.

We’ve selected our favourite spritz cocktails for the season, ranging from an aromatic spiced pear drink to a lively highball featuring a rich, bittersweet amaro. Tea, espresso, and red wine bring extra dimension to some, while others combine alpine herbs, smoky mezcal, or cinnamon-infused citrus to lift the winter blues. Many of these recipes nod to the spritz’s Italian heritage while giving the classic aperitivo more robust, seasonal flavours. Together, they make a collection of cold-weather spritzes that marry bitterness with brightness, and structure with sparkle - demonstrating that this effervescent staple also deserves a place on the winter table.

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Spiced Pear Spritz

This perfumed winter spritz combines pear vodka, falernum liqueur, and Peychaud’s bitters, creating a warmly spiced base before dry sparkling white wine and soda water complete the drink. Its pear-and-spice pairing is particularly pleasing when temperatures fall. Pour it over ice, then garnish with dried star anise and pear slices for added fragrance and seasonal character.

Bitter Lemon Spritz

In this variation on the Italian classic, light lager replaces sparkling wine, pairing amaro’s herbal complexity with fresh lemon juice and clean, crisp fizz. Averna, a Sicilian amaro, supplies its rich bittersweet character. Bright, tart citrus balances the Italian liqueur for a refreshing counterpoint. For an easy-drinking winter spritz, use a crisp American-style lager such as Miller High Life.

Orange-Cinnamon Amaro Spritz

A cinnamon-infused simple syrup lends warmth to this citrus-led spritz, alongside fresh orange and lemon juices and a layer of bittersweet Italian amaro. Soda water heightens its aromas while maintaining a bright, crisp finish, making it suitable at any time of year.

Meletti Spritz

Meletti, an Italian amaro from the eastern region of Le Marche, has sumptuous flavours of orange peel, cloves, and coffee. This botanical spritz lets the intricate amaro shine through a straightforward combination of Prosecco and soda water. A few dashes of orange bitters and a blood orange peel garnish finish it. Behind its apparent simplicity lies considerable nuance: warm spice and citrus unfold slowly, making it an elegant introduction to winter spritz territory.

Coconut Water Mezcal Spritz

While it was first created as a warm-weather cocktail, the smoky, gently spicy character of this mezcal spritz readily suits winter drinking. Coconut water, ginger syrup, mezcal, and elderflower liqueur form the base, with brut Champagne poured over the top. Sweet, smoky, lightly spicy, and sparkling, this adventurous drink is finished boldly with olives.

Contratto Spritz

Centred on the historic Italian aperitif Contratto, this spritz emphasises alpine herbs and assertive bitterness, with sparkling wine and soda adding length and lift. Its layered botanical character and vibrant citrus garnish are especially fitting for winter aperitivo hour, when savoury nibbles and richer dishes benefit from a drink with body and bite. The interplay of bitter and bright keeps it refreshing while retaining a seasonal feel.

Earl Grey–Aquavit Spritz

This fragrant spritz matches aquavit, scented with caraway and dill, with the tannic, bergamot-accented depth of Earl Grey tea, then tops it with sparkling wine. The tea’s restrained bitterness and the spirit’s savoury foundation give it a clear cold-weather character, recalling both Scandinavian traditions and afternoon tea. Refined yet unexpected, it is well suited to winter brunches and early-evening gatherings.

Blackberry Red Wine Spritz

Ripe blackberries and red wine provide the base for this darkly coloured spritz, with bubbles added to make its texture lighter. The wine’s tannins and dark-fruit character give it a richness that belongs in the cooler months, while its effervescence ensures the drink remains animated rather than weighty. Serve it with fresh berries for a cocktail that sits between a fruit-forward sangria and a bittersweet spritz.

Espresso Spritz

Freshly brewed espresso, coffee amaro, pineapple juice, vanilla syrup, and Prosecco come together in this energising spritz, which is both an aperitivo and an after-dinner lift. Roasted coffee depth and understated bitterness give the drink cold-weather comfort, while lively fruit and bubbles contribute a sparkling refinement. Brighten up your usual Espresso Martini with this vibrant, caffeinated spritz alternative.