Bubbling Over

5 Great Summer Cocktails

Some of our favorite drinks include a refreshing kick from sparkling wines.

By Alycin Bektesh May 30, 2019 Published in the Summer 2019 issue of Aspen Sojourner

Bubbling Bonito

Bubbling Bonito
Betula

As with all of the cocktails at this new restaurant, the Bonito is, indeed, beautiful. A best seller at Betula’s sister restaurant in St. Bart’s, this taste of summer includes a generous pour of Champagne, cucumber syrup, lemon juice, and watermelon liqueur. A stick of frozen watermelon keeps the drink flavored and chilled, while fresh cucumber and basil add complexity. Sip it on the rooftop patio, with an up-close view of Aspen Mountain. 525 E Cooper Ave (upstairs), 970-429-8683, betulaaspen.com

 

French 75
FRENCH ALPINE BISTRO La Crêperie du Village

Few things can make a person feel more au courant than drinking Champagne at an upscale French bistro. Save the airfare by getting the experience at Aspen’s own favorite spot for Alpine atmosphere with a French 75, a century-old cocktail that always tastes fresh. Along with a healthy pour of bubbles, this version of the classic contains gin, Cointreau, lemon, and a sugar cube. 400 E Hopkins Ave, 970-925-1566, lacreperieduvillage.com

  

Aperol Spritz
The Sundeck on Aspen Mountain

The red-tinged peaks of Highland Bowl and Mount Hayden, visible from the Sundeck, complement the brilliant sienna hue of this Aperol spritz. A refreshing reward for those who conquer the hike up Aspen Mountain (or just ride the gondola), the cocktail combines the bitter-orange Italian apéritif with brut prosecco and club soda. Enjoy yours on a Sunday during the weekly live bluegrass performances for the quintessential mountaintop afternoon. 970-925-1220, aspensnowmass.com

 

Garden Spritz
Hooch

Though its inconspicuous entrance and dark interior cry “speakeasy,” Hooch does not restrict its menu to classic cocktails. The multifaceted Garden Spritz mixes fruits and florals with surprise notes of black licorice. The specialized ingredient list is best left to the professionals: apple-and-fennel house-infused Hendrick’s gin, Strega herbal liqueur, Don Ciccio & Figli Finocchietto fennel liqueur, lemon, Moët Impérial Champagne, bitters, and tarragon. 301 E Hopkins Ave, 970-429-8540, hoochaspen.com

 

Ramona Paloma
Element 47

Made with Espolòn Blanco tequila and fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice, this twist on the standard paloma gets its extra fizz from Ramona canned sparkling wine, made out of organic zibibbo grapes from Sicily and flavored with natural grapefruit and cane syrup. A salted rim and a lime garnish help cut some of the wine’s sweetness; the remainder of the can is served on the side and can be mixed in to taste. 675 E Durant Ave (in The Little Nell), 970-920-6330, thelittlenell.com

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