Fresh Berry and Lime Vodka Soda Spritz with Sparkling Citrus

In a small bowl, gently muddle the mixed berries with the sugar until juicy but still a little chunky, then let them macerate for ten minutes.

Serves 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup mixed fresh berries (raspberries, blueberries, blackberries)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 6 ounces vodka
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons simple syrup
• 2 cups chilled club soda
• 1 cup ice
• Lime wheels, for garnish
• Fresh mint sprigs, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, gently muddle the mixed berries with the sugar until juicy but still a little chunky, then let them macerate for ten minutes.
2. Strain most of the berry juice into a pitcher, reserving a few whole berries for garnish.
3. Add the vodka, lime juice and simple syrup to the pitcher and stir well.
4. Fill four tall glasses with ice.
5. Divide the berry-vodka base among the glasses, filling each about halfway.
6. Top each glass with chilled club soda and stir once gently to keep the sparkle.
7. Drop in a few reserved berries and garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of mint.
8. Serve right away while frosty and effervescent.
9. Poland has a proud tradition of fruit-infused vodkas known as nalewki, homemade in summer when berries hang heavy on the bush. This lighter, sparkling spin muddles fresh berries into a bright citrus spritz, an easygoing patriotic-hued cooler that fits perfectly on a warm evening cookout table.

Nutrition (estimated, per serving)

• Calories: 170 kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 20mg