‘Tis the season for a festive Lambrusco Smash.
Once you start serving this at fall gatherings, it may become your go-to cocktail. It tastes like November: crisp air softened by friends, fires, and cozy holiday scents—cinnamon, citrus and crunchy leaves.
It warms you from the inside out, and it’s as comforting as it is bright.
I love Lambrusco for its lively bubbles—the perfect balance of effervescence without being cloying. It’s my favorite red to reach for during the holidays, whether enjoyed on its own or mixed into cocktails.
Here, it becomes a Lambrusco Bourbon Smash, brightened with orange soda and lightly sweetened with maple syrup—ideal for Friendsgiving and Thanksgiving gatherings.
If you prefer, skip the maple syrup—the cocktail still shines, especially with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar rim. I love adding that textured rim in fall; it brings a little seasonal flair to every sip.
One of the best parts: you can make this ahead. Combine the ingredients an hour before serving so the flavors meld while the bubbles remain lively. The drink gains depth as it rests, especially if you add orange slices or cinnamon sticks.
YES.
With so many dishes to manage on Thanksgiving, a cocktail that can be prepped ahead and served by guests is a lifesaver. Make something simple and shareable so you can enjoy the day instead of being stuck behind the bar.
Full disclosure: I’m very excited about this drink.
This smash is both refreshing and warming. When the weather cools I often find myself craving red wine; there’s something about the darker afternoons and cooler air that calls for it. This cocktail feels like a perfect answer to the season and even to the end of daylight savings time.
Lambrusco Smash
Lambrusco Smash
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Ingredients
- 1 750 mL bottle Lambrusco
- 12 ounces orange soda
- 4 ounces bourbon
- 2 ounces maple syrup (optional)
- orange wedges for serving
For the rim:
- ¼ cup coarse sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- orange wedges for rimming
Instructions
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In a large pitcher, stir together the Lambrusco, bourbon, orange soda and maple syrup (if using) until combined.
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On a plate, mix the cinnamon and sugars. Run an orange wedge around the rim of each glass and dip into the cinnamon sugar to coat.
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Fill glasses with ice, pour the Lambrusco mixture over the ice, and garnish with an orange wedge. Serve immediately.
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Seriously—look at those bubbles.