The Vermouth Spritz is a proper aperitif-style drink that’s light, bubbly, and deceptively complex. Non-alcoholic vermouth like Lyre’s Aperitif Dry brings herbal and citrus notes that give the drink its backbone, while fresh lemon juice and simple syrup balance things out. Club soda on top makes it effervescent and easy to sip.

Why it works as an aperitif

Vermouth-based drinks have always been about stimulating the appetite, and this mocktail does exactly that. The herbal bitterness from the non-alcoholic vermouth, combined with the tartness of fresh lemon, creates a flavor profile that’s refreshing without being sweet. The simple syrup is there to smooth out the edges, not to dominate. If you prefer a drier drink, you can easily cut it back or swap it for a touch of honey or agave.

Getting it right

Fresh-squeezed lemon juice is non-negotiable here. Bottled juice lacks the brightness that makes this drink shine. Chill everything before you start, including the glass if you can, because a cold spritz is a good spritz. For garnish, a lemon wedge is classic, but a sprig of fresh thyme adds a nice aromatic layer that plays well with the herbal vermouth.

This drink fits naturally before a meal with bruschetta, a cheese plate, or grilled fish. If you enjoy the herbal side of cocktails, the Negroni takes that idea further with a bolder flavor profile, and the Aperol Spritz offers a slightly sweeter, equally bubbly alternative.