Created by Dick Bradsell in London, the Russian Spring Punch is an IBA New Era Drink that joins vodka, crème de cassis, sugar syrup, and lemon juice before being topped with sparkling wine. The blackcurrant liqueur supplies a berry sweetness set against the tartness of the lemon, while the sparkling wine adds effervescence and lift, placing the drink between the sour and sparkling-wine categories. Served in a highball glass at roughly 13 percent alcohol by volume, it presents a well-balanced interplay of fruit and acidity. As a modern classic, it has earned recognition as one of the more enduring contributions of late twentieth-century London bartending.
Russian Spring Punch
Ingrédients
- Vodka 2.5 cl
- Creme De Cassis 1.5 cl
- Sugar syrup 1 cl
- Lemon Juice 2.5 cl
Instructions
Pour the ingredients into an highball glass, top with Sparkling wine.
Le Russian Spring Punch est un cocktail « New Era Drinks » de l'IBA associant vodka, crème de cassis, sirop de sucre et jus de citron, complété de vin mousseux pour un long drink effervescent et résolument fruité aux baies. Créé par Dick Bradsell à Londres, c'est un classique moderne qui fait le pont entre les catégories sour et vin mousseux. Servi dans un verre highball, il offre un équilibre harmonieux entre la douceur du cassis et l'acidité des agrumes.
History & Origins
The Russian Spring Punch was created by British bartender Dick Bradsell in the 1980s, widely regarded as one of the most influential cocktail creators of the modern era. Bradsell developed the drink as a lighter, sparkling alternative to the Kir Royale, incorporating vodka and lemon for greater complexity. It was recognized by the IBA in its New Era Drinks category, cementing its status as a contemporary classic.
Tasting Notes
Aroma: Fresh blackcurrant from the crème de cassis and lemon zest, with a delicate effervescence from the sparkling wine. Palate: Sweet and tart in balance, with the blackcurrant's jammy richness complemented by bright lemon acidity and vodka's clean warmth; the sparkling wine adds lightness and lift. Finish: Dry and refreshing, with a lingering berry note and gentle effervescence.
Pro Tip
Add the sparkling wine last and pour it gently to preserve the bubbles, finishing with a lemon slice garnish for visual appeal.
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