Cold Brew Spritz – Coffee Liqueur, Vodka & Citrus Highball
A refreshing cold brew-inspired spritz that combines coffee liqueur, vodka, and fresh lemon juice, topped with club soda for a crisp, lightly fizzy finish.
The Cold Brew Spritz is a modern, refreshing highball that brings together the rich depth of coffee liqueur with bright citrus and effervescence. Balanced with fresh lemon juice and topped with club soda, it transforms what could be a heavy combination into a crisp, easy-drinking cocktail perfect for warm weather or casual evenings.
Background
Coffee-based cocktails are often associated with rich, dessert-style drinks, but the Cold Brew Spritz takes a different approach. By introducing citrus and carbonation, it shifts the profile toward something lighter and more refreshing. This style reflects a growing trend in modern mixology: reworking heavier flavors into sessionable, highball-style drinks.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Vodka – provides a clean, neutral backbone that supports the other flavors
- Coffee Liqueur – adds depth, sweetness, and rich coffee character
- Fresh Lemon Juice – brightens the drink and balances sweetness with acidity
- Club Soda – adds effervescence and lightens the overall texture
Substitutions:
- Use cold brew concentrate with simple syrup instead of coffee liqueur for a less sweet version
- Swap vodka for aged rum to add warmth and complexity
- Try orange or grapefruit juice for a softer citrus profile
Equipment
- Collins glass
- Bar spoon
Why This Drink Works
Brightness Cuts Through Richness
Coffee liqueur brings sweetness and depth, but without balance it can feel heavy. The addition of fresh lemon juice introduces acidity that sharpens the profile, while club soda lifts the drink, creating a refreshing, layered experience instead of a dense one.
Substitutions & Variations
- Add a splash of tonic instead of soda for a slightly bitter edge
- Use espresso liqueur for a more intense coffee flavor
- Add a dash of orange bitters to enhance citrus complexity
- Garnish with a lemon twist or coffee beans for visual contrast
Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh lemon juice for proper balance
- Fill the glass fully with ice to maintain structure and slow dilution
- Add soda last to preserve carbonation
- Stir gently after topping to keep the drink lively
Cold Brew Spritz Recipe
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Type of Glass
Collins Glass
Ingredients
- 1 oz.
- 1 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
- 3-4 oz. (Top)
Directions
Fill a Collins glass with ice.
Add vodka, coffee liqueur, and fresh lemon juice.
Stir briefly to combine and chill.
Top with club soda.
Stir gently to integrate without losing carbonation.
Garnish with a lemon wedge if desired and serve.
The Cold Brew Spritz proves that coffee cocktails can be bright, refreshing, and effortlessly drinkable.
