Updated on: 6/8/2025
How to Make a Classic Russian Spring Punch: A Bartender’s Guide
Picture this: It’s a sunny afternoon, the flowers are blooming, and you’re ready to impress your friends with your cocktail-making prowess. Enter the Russian Spring Punch, a refreshing cocktail that combines the elegance of Russian mixology with a zing that screams springtime. For all home bartenders and cocktail aficionados, this guide will walk you through crafting this classic drink with finesse.
Why This Drink is Perfect for You
The Russian Spring Punch isn’t just any cocktail. It’s a delightful balance of fruity and bubbly, with a touch of sophistication. Whether you’re hosting a garden party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this drink adds a splash of charm to any occasion. Plus, with its vibrant history and cultural roots, making this punch is like shaking up a little piece of history in your cocktail shaker. For those eager to explore classic cocktails and bring a piece of Russia to their own home, this guide has got you covered.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 45 ml vodka
- 15 ml crème de cassis
- 15 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 60 ml champagne or any sparkling wine
- A splash of simple syrup (to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices and berries for garnish
Step-by-Step Mixing Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before you dive headfirst into cocktail crafting, make sure you’ve got everything prepared. Squeeze your lemon juice fresh—it makes all the difference! Measure out all your ingredients so you’re ready to go.
Step 2: Ice, Ice, Baby
Fill your shaker with some ice cubes. The key to any great punch is keeping it refreshingly cold.
Step 3: Shake It Up
Add the vodka, crème de cassis, lemon juice, and a splash of simple syrup into the shaker. Feel free to adjust the simple syrup quantity to suit your sweetness preference. Shake everything together until it’s cold—use those muscles! You’re reaching for about 20-30 seconds of vigorous shaking.
Step 4: Strain and Pour
Strain the mix into a highball glass filled with ice. This ensures a silky smooth experience without ice shards mucking up the flow.
Step 5: Add Some Sparkle
Top off your concoction with champagne or sparkling wine. This step is where the magic happens! The bubbles bring everything together, making each sip a delightful explosion of flavor.
Step 6: Garnish with Flair
Finally, garnish with a lemon slice and a few berries to give that extra touch of elegance (and a fruity nibble for later).
Serving Tips & Variations
- Batch It for Parties: Multiply the ingredients and prepare it in a large punch bowl for larger gatherings. Float some ice cubes and lemon slices in the bowl for an inviting look.
- Alcohol-Free Option: Simply replace vodka and crème de cassis with a mixture of blackcurrant juice and lemon soda for a mocktail version.
Fun Historical Nugget
The Russian Spring Punch, though a cocktail that feels like it’s as old as time, actually comes from the creative mind of Dick Bradsell in the 1980s. He was a renowned innovator behind the bar and brought together Russian vodka and springtime flavors to create this masterpiece. Who knew history could be so tasty?
The Final Sip
And there you have it—a drink that carries a punch and excites the senses, without ever leaving your kitchen. The Russian Spring Punch is not just a cocktail; it's your passport to a world of flavors that captures the spirit of a fresh and uplifting season. Happy mixing!