Sparkling Rose Margarita

A sparkly version of the classic that’s going to elevate your summer drinks repertoire.

As soon as I saw the recipe for this cocktail, I knew I had to make it right away. I mean, what’s not to love here? I am a big fan of sparkling wines and all things rosé, and I don’t think I have ever turned down a Margarita. When combined, the surprising blend of flavors is unbelievably amicable. Think Côte d’Azur meets Punta Mita, an elegant combination of the tangy lime and earthy tequila flavors from the classic Margarita enhanced by fruity and floral notes from sparkling rosé wine, which adds an effervescent touch that’s simply très chic.

This cocktail reminded me of a favorite bar in Austin, Texas, where Billy, the owner, had a weekly rosé and mezcal pairing special. At first I thought it weird, thinking the flavors would clash. But I trusted Billy’s impeccable taste so I went for it. Boy oh boy, was I surprised. Upon tasting this Sparkling Rosé Margarita, my love for pairing rosé with agave spirits was solidified.

A cousin to the French 75 and the Classic Mimosa, it’s believed that the cocktail known as the Colletti Royale, which is basically a Margarita topped with sparkling rosé, comes from bartender Julie Reiner, co-owner of the cocktail bars Clover Club, Leyenda, and Milady’s in New York City. If so, I’d like to send her a thank you card for combining two of my favorite alcoholic beverages ever.

Why You Will Love This Cocktail

You will love this cocktail because it is perfectly festive, combining the tangy punch of a classic margarita with the soft, fruity, bubbly character of the rosé, making it an absolutely fabulous summer drink. It is mildly sweet but with a refreshing citrus twist, ideal for cookouts, pool parties, and garden soirees of all kinds. Its gorgeous color and the ability to easily multiply the recipe for entertaining make it ideal for any occasion.

The cocktail can be served with a splash of sparkling water if you prefer to make it bubblier, or even go without the wine. You can add agave syrup to taste, depending on the sweetness of the sparkling rosé. Best of all, it can be easily turned into a pitcher of bubbly margaritas. It will pair with pretty much anything you serve at brunch or at a party, from canapes to barbecue, grilled seafood, roasted veggies, dips such as hummus and guacamole, tacos – you name it. Food friendly and refreshing is the name of the game here.

Looking for an easy to make, refreshing summer sipper that’s perfect for your next gathering? This Sparkling Rosé Margarita might be just the one.

What Is Sparkling Rosé?

Most of the popular styles of sparkling wines you know are also available in rosé. Sparkling rosé comes in a variety of styles – Champagne, Cava, Cremant, Moscato, even Prosecco – produced from different grape varieties from regions across the world in many levels of sweetness. The flavor profiles of sparkling rosé depend on grape varietals and production style, but notes of red fruit, cherries, citrus, and white flowers are common tasting notes. The color ranges from pale pink to darker hues reminiscent of hibiscus tea. In general, color does not indicate level of sweetness.

What is the Best Alcohol to Use to Make a Sparkling Rose Margarita?

Look for a mid-priced, 100% Blue Weber agave blanco or silver tequila. Remember that your cocktail will only be as good as the ingredients you use, so don’t go for the bottom of the shelf here – your head will thank you the next day.

As for the sparkling wine I’d say the same, unless you like your cocktail on the sweeter side. Less expensive rosé sparkling wines will have more residual sugar, meaning they will be sweeter. If you don’t mind sweet, anything in the $10 range would do. However, I personally recommend something dry, or Brut. You can find good value dry sparkling wines such as Cava from Spain for under $15. Worst case scenario, find an inexpensive still rosé and top the cocktail with sparkling mineral water for the fizzy effect.

Print Recipe

Servings 1

Ingredients

2 ounces silver tequila
1 ounce fresh lime juice
1 ounce triple sec
1 ounce agave nectar or simple syrup, as preferred
2 ounces sparkling rose
Ice cubes
Optional garnish: Lime wedge

Instructions

Rim the glasses with a lime wedge and then dip in salt to coat. Fill the glasses with ice.
In a jug, combine tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and agave nectar. Stir well until everything is well mixed.
Pour the tequila mixture into the glasses until half full, then top up with sparkling rose.

FAQs & Tips

What glass and garnish to use?

You can serve a Sparkling Rosé Margarita in a traditional Margarita coupe, in Champagne flutes, or even in tumblers for a casual party vibe. If possible, chill the glasses ahead of time to help keep the cocktail as cold as possible since you won’t be adding ice. Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge, or go fancy with strawberry slices. Salt the rim if you like, but the cocktail is delicious without.

How to store a Sparkling Rosé Margarita?

This is a perfect make-ahead cocktail, whether for a dinner for two or a large gathering. Simply combine the tequila, lime juice, triple sec and agave syrup in a pitcher. Refrigerate this mixture for a few hours. When ready to serve, stir the mixture then add one 750 ml bottle of sparkling rose to the pitcher. Serve in your prepared glassware.

How many calories are in a typical Sparkling Rosé Margarita?

A Sparkling Rosé Margarita has about 313 calories.

Can I use a different liqueur if I don’t have triple sec?

You can, but it will change the flavor profile, so be careful when selecting your substitute. You don’t want anything with a strong flavor that will obscure or clash with the delicate sparkling wine. Think something fruity or floral, like elderflower, creme de violette, passion fruit, Chambord, or even Agavero which is agave liqueur which will accentuate the agave flavor of the tequila. If you don’t have any liqueur you can leave it, out but may need to adjust the amount of agave nectar.

What if I don’t have agave nectar?

Make a quick simple sugar syrup. Combining equal amounts of sugar and water and heat up and stir until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool before using in your cocktail.