A Diamond Fizz is what I reach for when I want something bright, bubbly, and just a little bit fancy. It’s like a Gin Fizz’s more glamorous cousin—simple, citrusy, and topped with sparkling wine instead of club soda. That little twist makes all the difference. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser—especially for brunch or warm evenings on the patio.
Diamond Fizz
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glassware: Champagne flute or highball glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin (London Dry gin works great)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
– 1 oz (30 ml) simple syrup (see tips below)
– Sparkling wine to top (about 2–3 oz / 60–90 ml), chilled
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well—about 10–15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a chilled Champagne flute (or highball glass if you prefer something more casual).
- Top with sparkling wine. Pour gently so you don’t lose too many bubbles.
- Give it a light stir, just enough to mix without flattening the fizz.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh lemon juice—it makes a big difference in brightness and flavor.
– Simple syrup: You can make your own by mixing equal parts sugar and hot water until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool before using.
– If you’re watching your sugar intake, swap the simple syrup for agave nectar or a splash of honey dissolved in warm water.
– A dry sparkling wine like Brut or Cava works best. Sweet sparkling wines can make the drink taste cloying.
– I learned this the hard way: don’t add the sparkling wine to the shaker. It’ll go flat and might even cause a fizzy mess.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the gin, lemon juice, and syrup ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a quick shake before using. Add the sparkling wine only when you’re ready to serve—this keeps the bubbles lively.
Storage
This cocktail is best made fresh, but if you have leftover gin-lemon-syrup mix, store it in a sealed jar in the fridge. Use within 48 hours for best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights with friends. It pairs beautifully with:
– Eggs Benedict or smoked salmon for brunch
– Fresh oysters—the citrus and bubbles are a perfect match
– Light salads with vinaigrette, especially with goat cheese or citrus fruits
Variations to Try
Ruby Fizz
– Use raspberry syrup instead of simple syrup.
– Muddle fresh raspberries in the shaker before adding other ingredients for a fruity twist.
Emerald Fizz
– Add a splash (about 0.25 oz / 7 ml) of green Chartreuse before shaking. It adds an herbal, slightly spicy edge.
Golden Fizz
– Add 1 egg yolk before shaking (yes, really!). It creates a rich, silky texture. Shake extra hard to blend it well.
Virgin Diamond Fizz
– Mix 0.5 oz lemon juice and 1 oz simple syrup, then top with chilled sparkling water. It’s refreshing and still has that celebratory sparkle.
Ingredient Swaps
– Swap gin for vodka if you’re not into botanicals.
– Use honey syrup (mix 2 parts honey with 1 part warm water) for a floral sweetness.
– Try Prosecco or Cava instead of Champagne—more affordable and still delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Don’t use bottled lemon juice—it lacks the brightness of fresh.
– Don’t oversweeten. The bubbles and lemon should shine, not the sugar.
– Avoid flat sparkling wine. Always chill it well and open right before using.
Why This Recipe Works
Shaking the gin, lemon juice, and syrup with ice chills the drink and blends the flavors. Adding the sparkling wine after keeps the fizz intact. Using a flute or tall glass helps the bubbles rise beautifully—and makes it feel extra special.
FAQ
Can I serve this in a different glass?
Yes! A Champagne flute looks elegant, but a highball or even a wine glass works just fine.
What’s the best gin to use?
A London Dry gin is classic—it’s crisp and blends well. But if you like floral or citrus-forward gins, try those too!
How sweet is this cocktail?
It’s lightly sweet with a citrusy edge. You can adjust the syrup to your taste.
Can I make a batch for a party?
Absolutely. Mix the gin, lemon juice, and syrup in a pitcher and chill. When ready to serve, pour into glasses and top with sparkling wine.
What garnish should I use?
A lemon twist adds a bright aroma. A fresh raspberry or cherry looks lovely too, but it’s optional.
Wrap-Up
The Diamond Fizz is one of those drinks that feels like a celebration, even if it’s just a Tuesday. It’s bright, bubbly, and incredibly easy to make—no special tools, no complicated steps. Whether you’re hosting brunch or winding down on the porch, it’s the kind of cocktail that brings a little sparkle to any moment.
