Puttin’ on the Spritz: Blake Leonard Unveils the Three Must-Have Low-Alcohol Cocktails for Summer 2026

NORWALK, CT – April 6, 2026 – As the thermometer climbs and social calendars fill with backyard gatherings and golden-hour soirées, "Spritz Season" has officially arrived. Known for their vibrant hues and effortless effervescence, spritz cocktails have evolved from a Mediterranean tradition into a global lifestyle staple. Today, Blake Leonard, Certified Sommelier and President of Stew Leonard’s Wines & Spirits, is sharing her top three spritz picks to keep your glass cold and your summer afternoons refreshed.

"Spritz cocktails strike that perfect balance between sophisticated and laid-back," says Leonard. "Their lower alcohol content makes them ideal for daytime socializing, while the bubbles and bright garnishes bring a sense of celebration to any setting—whether you’re enjoying a spritz as an aperitivo along the Amalfi Coast or relaxing anywhere with friends."

According to Leonard, the magic of the spritz lies in its versatility, and extends far beyond the tried-and-true Aperol Spritz. This season, she is highlighting three distinct flavor profiles that cater to every palate:

Campari Spritz

Slightly less sweet than its cousin the Aperol Spritz, the Campari Spritz is bolder and offers more bitter – yet still refreshing -  flavors of orange and cinnamon.

Ingredients:

3 oz chilled Prosecco (or dry sparkling wine), chilled

2 oz Campari

1 oz Spindrift Blood Orange Tangerine Sparkling Water (or club soda)

Instructions: Fill a large wine glass to the brim with ice.  Pour in the Campari, followed by the Prosecco and the soda. Give it one very gentle stir to combine without losing the bubbles. Garnish with an orange slice.

Amalfi Spritz

Sunshine in a glass!  The Amalfi Spritz is crisp and citrusy, swapping bitter orange for the world-renowned Limoncello of Southern Italy.

Ingredients:

3 oz chilled Prosecco

2 oz chilled Limoncello

1 oz club soda (or sparkling water)

Instructions: Fill a large wine glass to the brim with ice. Pour in the limoncello, followed by the Prosecco. Stir gently to combine and top with a splash of club soda for extra fizz.

Garnish with a fresh lemon wheel and a sprig of mint.

Hugo Spritz

Floral and fresh!  Blake suggests picking a dry Prosecco for this cocktail so your spritz doesn’t end up overly sweet.

Ingredients:

4-6 fresh mint leaves

1 oz Elderflower Liqueur, such as St. Germain

4 oz chilled Prosecco

A splash of Club Soda/Sparkling Water

Instructions: Fill a large wine glass to the brim with ice.  Add 4–6 mint leaves and 1 oz elderflower liqueur. Lightly muddle the mint (don’t over-muddle – it can cause bitterness!). Pour in the chilled Prosecco and top with a splash of soda water.  Stir gently to combine and garnish with a fresh sprig of mint.