Russian Spring Punch
A fresh, berry-rich punch with a hint of lemon and a sparkling fizz of wine.
Ingredients
- Vodka45 ml
- Crème de cassis15 ml
- Sparkling wine, Champagne or dry proseccotop up
- Lemon juice, freshly squeezed lemon juice20 ml
- Simple syrup (1 part Sugar, 1 part Water)10 ml
- Lemon, to garnish (optional)1 wheel
- Blackberry, to garnish (optional)3 whole
- Raspberry, to garnish (optional)3 whole
Method
- Fill a tall glass with ice so it chills while you mix.
- Shake the vodka, lemon juice, crème de cassis and syrup with plenty of ice for about 10 seconds.
- Strain over fresh ice in the cold glass.
- Gently top up with sparkling wine to keep the bubbles.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel, blackberries and raspberries.
Credit Dick Bradsell
About this drink
The Russian Spring Punch was created in the 1980s by the legendary London bartender Dick Bradsell, the man behind modern classics such as the Espresso Martini and the Bramble. It pairs the cleanness of vodka with the dark berry sweetness of cassis and the fine bubbles of Champagne, a sure winner for spring parties and long brunches. The name nods to the Russian spirit and the springlike lightness in the glass.
Questions and answers
What is a Russian Spring Punch?
A light, sparkling cocktail that mixes vodka with the blackcurrant liqueur crème de cassis and a touch of lemon, topped with sparkling wine for a festive, springlike finish.
Does a Russian Spring Punch need Champagne?
Any good sparkling wine works. Prosecco gives a slightly sweeter finish, while a dry cava or Champagne keeps the drink sharper.
