Peach & Thyme Sparkler Recipe

A refreshing fusion of sweet summer peaches, aromatic thyme, and effervescent bubbles that dances across the palate with every sophisticated sip.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
2 cocktails
An elegant tall collins glass capturing the golden-peach hue of the cocktail with a gentle gradient from bottom to top. Natural daylight streams through the glass, highlighting suspended thyme sprigs and floating peach slices. Tiny bubbles rise continuously through the liquid, creating a dynamic visual element. The rim is adorned with a crystallized sugar edge, while a prominent garnish of a fresh peach fan and verdant thyme sprig adds height and aroma. The background features blurred fresh peaches and crystalline ice cubes on a light marble surface, enhancing the seasonal freshness of this sparkling summer cocktail.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">4 ripe peach slices, plus extra for garnish</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">60ml thyme simple syrup (see note)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">30ml fresh lemon juice</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">60ml peach nectar (or peach puree)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">90ml vodka</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">200ml prosecco (or other dry sparkling wine)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Ice cubes</li> </ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Muddler</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Cocktail shaker</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Fine-mesh strainer</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Jigger</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Collins glasses</li> </ul>
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Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> To make thyme simple syrup, combine 120ml water and 120ml sugar in a small saucepan with 5-6 fresh thyme sprigs. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and allow to steep for 15-20 minutes before straining. Cool completely before use. This can be made up to a week ahead and stored in the refrigerator. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Place peach slices in the bottom of your cocktail shaker and muddle gently until fruit releases its juices but isn't completely pulverized—you want to extract the flavor without creating too much pulp that will clog your strainer. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Add the thyme simple syrup, lemon juice, peach nectar, and vodka to the shaker. Fill with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty. This proper dilution and temperature are crucial for balancing the sweet and herbal flavors. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Fill two collins glasses halfway with fresh ice cubes. Double-strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into the glasses, dividing equally to avoid any peach pulp from entering your finished cocktail. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Top each glass with approximately 100ml of chilled prosecco, pouring slowly down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation. The bubbles will help lift the aromatic qualities of both peach and thyme. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Garnish each cocktail with a fresh peach slice and a sprig of thyme, gently pressing the thyme against the side of the glass to release its aromatic oils. Serve immediately while bubbles are still vibrant and the drink is properly chilled. </li> </ol>

Chef’s Notes

A few helpful details for making this recipe.

Can I make this cocktail non-alcoholic while preserving the flavour profile?

Absolutely! Create a mocktail version by omitting the vodka and replacing prosecco with sparkling water or alcohol-free sparkling wine. The fresh peach flavours and aromatic thyme notes will still shine through, creating a sophisticated alcohol-free alternative that's perfect for all guests.

What's the best type of peach to use in fruity summer cocktails?

White peaches offer delicate floral notes while yellow peaches provide that classic sweet-tart balance. For cocktails, choose fruits that are ripe but still firm—overripe peaches create excessive pulp. When in season, fresh local peaches deliver superior flavour, but high-quality frozen peaches work well in winter months.

How long will homemade thyme simple syrup last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container, homemade thyme simple syrup will maintain its quality for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. Look for any cloudiness or off-smells as signs it should be discarded. For maximum flavour, use within the first week when the thyme notes are still vibrant.

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