In the scorching heat of summer, there's nothing quite like a refreshing drink to cool you down and lift your spirits. This year, in 2025, the drink that's taking the summer by storm is the Spa Spritz. It's a delightful twist on the classic Lillet Spritz, offering a unique and rejuvenating experience for your taste buds.

The beauty of the Spa Spritz lies in its simplicity and the harmonious combination of ingredients. At the heart of this recipe are cucumber and fresh basil, which bring a spa - like freshness to the drink. Cucumber, with its high water content, is not only hydrating but also imparts a crisp and clean flavor. Fresh basil, on the other hand, adds a fragrant and slightly peppery note that elevates the overall taste profile.

To make this wonderful concoction, you'll also need Lillet Blanc. Lillet Blanc is a French aperitif that has a delicate, fruity flavor with hints of citrus and floral notes. It serves as the base of the Spa Spritz, providing a smooth and sophisticated foundation for the other ingredients.

Sparkling wine plays a crucial role in the Spa Spritz. The bubbles add a lively and effervescent quality to the drink, making it even more enjoyable. You can choose a dry sparkling wine, such as a Prosecco or a Cava, to complement the other flavors without overpowering them. The sparkling wine also gives the Spa Spritz a celebratory feel, making it perfect for any summer gathering.

Club soda is another essential ingredient. It dilutes the other components slightly, creating a lighter and more refreshing drink. The carbonation from the club soda adds to the overall fizz and makes the Spa Spritz even more quenching on a hot summer day.

Now, let's get into the step - by - step process of making the Spa Spritz. First, you'll want to prepare the cucumber and basil. Wash the cucumber thoroughly and slice it into thin rounds. Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces to release their aroma. You can also gently muddle a few basil leaves in the bottom of your glass to intensify the flavor.

Next, pour about 1.5 ounces of Lillet Blanc into a tall glass filled with ice. The ice will not only keep the drink cold but also start to dilute it slightly as it melts, enhancing the flavors over time. Then, add a few slices of cucumber and the torn basil leaves to the glass.

After that, pour in about 3 ounces of sparkling wine. Watch as the bubbles rise and create a beautiful, effervescent display. The sparkling wine will add a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor to the Spa Spritz.

Finally, top off the glass with club soda. Fill it up to the brim, leaving just a little room at the top. Stir the drink gently with a long spoon to combine all the ingredients. You can garnish the Spa Spritz with an additional cucumber slice and a sprig of fresh basil for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal.

One of the reasons why the Spa Spritz is our 2025 drink of summer is its versatility. It can be enjoyed on its own as a relaxing afternoon beverage while you soak up the sun by the pool. Or, it can be served at a summer party, where its unique flavor and beautiful presentation are sure to impress your guests.

Moreover, the Spa Spritz is relatively low in alcohol compared to some other cocktails. This makes it a great choice for those who want to enjoy a refreshing drink without getting overly intoxicated. It's also a healthier option in a way, thanks to the hydrating cucumber and the natural flavors of the basil.

In conclusion, the Spa Spritz is a must - try drink this summer. Its combination of cucumber, fresh basil, Lillet Blanc, sparkling wine, and club soda creates a refreshing and rejuvenating experience that is perfect for the warm summer months. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in this delicious 2025 summer elixir.