Wild Hibiscus Sparkling Cocktail Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it transforms a simple glass of champagne into a mesmerizing and Instagram-worthy cocktail with just a splash of hibiscus syrup. Plus, watching the wild hibiscus flower bloom at the bottom of the glass while sipping on something fizzy just adds a delightful sense of magic to any gathering.

I adore making eye-catching, invigorating cocktails, and my Wild Hibiscus Sparkling Cocktail is just the thing for any get-together. This libation is not just about the wild hibiscus flowers in syrup.

No, my friends, this deliciousness also has a not-so-secret ingredient: chilled sparkling wine. And don’t get me started on the garnish (fresh mint leaves, anyone?).

I think another word for the drinks in this section could be “visuals”—and here’s why.

Wild Hibiscus Sparkling Cocktail Recipe Ingredients

• Wild Hibiscus Flowers: Adds a floral note and visual elegance.
• Syrup: Sweetens the cocktail with a tart, fruity essence.
• Sparkling Wine: Provides effervescence and a crisp, refreshing taste.
• Mint Leaves: Offers aromatic freshness and a hint of menthol.

Wild Hibiscus Sparkling Cocktail Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 jar of wild hibiscus flowers in syrup
• 1 bottle of sparkling wine or champagne, chilled
• 1/4 cup of hibiscus syrup from the jar
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

How to Make this Wild Hibiscus Sparkling Cocktail Recipe

1. Keep a bottle of sparkling wine or champagne cold when ready to serve. To do this, place the bottle upright in the refrigerator, in a spot that affords maximum ventilation (which simply means not crammed in too tight against other items). This is the ideal temperature for serving sparkling wine or champagne. To achieve it, set the refrigerator to its coldest (usually around 34 degrees Fahrenheit) and allow the bottle to chill for at least three hours.

2. Remove the lid from the jar containing the wild hibiscus flowers in syrup.

3. Take a hibiscus flower out of the jar, allowing the nectar to return to the jar, and place it in the bottom of a champagne glass. Allow the flower to drip dry in the glass.

4. Pour approximately 1 tablespoon of the hibiscus syrup from the jar into the flute, allowing it to flow over the flower.

5. Gently, pour the chilled sparkling wine or champagne over the hibiscus flower in the flute. As the sparkling wine rises, the syrup will blend and mix with the wine.

6. Keep pouring until the champagne flute is filled to about three-quarters full or to your desired amount.

7. Let the flower take a couple of moments to stabilize and reach full bloom in the glass.

8. Carry out the procedure for every further serving.

9. You can optionally add a sprig of fresh mint for an aromatic touch to each glass as a garnish.

10. Enjoy the Wild Hibiscus Sparkling Cocktail straight away for the most exquisite taste.

Wild Hibiscus Sparkling Cocktail Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Refrigerator
2. Champagne flutes
3. Jar opener (optional)
4. Measuring spoon (1 tablespoon)
5. Spoon (for extracting hibiscus flowers from the jar)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use any sparkling wine for this cocktail?A: Yes, you can use any type of sparkling wine or champagne you prefer. Just be sure to chill it before serving so that you can have the best possible experience.
• Q: Are the wild hibiscus flowers edible?A: Absolutely, the cocktail can be completely garnished with edible wild hibiscus flowers and syrup. The flowers themselves are beautiful and would serve quite well as an elegant garnish for the cocktail.
• Q: Can I make this cocktail non-alcoholic?A: Absolutely! You can swap out the sparkling wine for sparkling water or a non-alcoholic bubbly beverage of your choice.
• Q: How do I properly serve the hibiscus flowers?To make the hibiscus sparkle, place a single flower in the bottom of each glass before gently pouring in the wine. The gentle pour allows the flower to keep its form, creating a striking floral presentation as the bubbles do their thing. It’s hard to believe that something so simple can look and taste so good.
• Q: Is the mint garnish necessary?A: Adding fresh mint leaves is totally up to your personal preference. Mint most certainly adds an extra refreshing aroma, but it’s not necessary for a successful dish.
• Q: How much syrup should I use from the hibiscus jar?A: Hibiscus syrup adds a subtle floral sweetness that makes the perfect complement to sparkling wine. Use about 1/4 cup.

Wild Hibiscus Sparkling Cocktail Recipe Substitutions and Variations

You might use edible rose petals or violets in syrup instead of wild hibiscus flowers in syrup.
Substitute sparkling rosé or prosecco for either sparkling wine or champagne to give a different flavor profile.
For a unique twist, swap the hibiscus syrup for elderflower or pomegranate syrup.
You can use leaves of basil for a different aroma instead of using mint leaves, which are also good, for a garnish.

Pro Tips

1. Chill the Glasses Before serving, chill your champagne flutes in the refrigerator or freezer for about 15 minutes. This helps keep the cocktail cold longer and enhances the sensory experience.

2. Use High-Quality Ingredients Opt for a high-quality sparkling wine or champagne. The taste of the wine greatly affects the overall flavor of the cocktail, so choosing something you enjoy on its own is key.

3. Gentle Pouring When pouring the sparkling wine over the hibiscus flower, tilt the glass slightly and pour the wine slowly down the side. This minimizes the loss of bubbles and helps the syrup blend smoothly with the wine.

4. Experiment with Syrup Levels For those who prefer a sweeter drink, gradually adjust the amount of hibiscus syrup added to suit your taste. Start with the suggested quantity and add more if desired.

5. Rinse the Mint If using mint as a garnish, briefly rinse and lightly pat it dry before adding a sprig to each glass. This ensures any dust or residual pesticides are removed, enhancing the freshness of the garnish.