This Orange Sunshine Martini is exactly like a ray of sunshine—light, refreshing, and the perfect aperitif for any season.
I have a bad habit of posting late. Often I start a post the night before, decide to finish it the next morning, and then other things intervene until suddenly it’s much later than I intended. If anyone wants to help me get ahead, volunteers to assist with a marathon cocktail session are welcome—mixing multiple drinks made with fresh ingredients takes time and focus, and doing too many in one day can turn messy fast.
I love creating cocktails and exploring how spirits, citrus, and sweeteners can combine into something vibrant and delicious. I first encountered a version of this Orange Sunshine Martini at a restaurant where it was listed simply as orange-infused vodka and agave nectar. I borrowed the name and added a few touches of my own. The result is a cheerful drink that sits somewhere between a martini and a mimosa—simple, bright, and very satisfying.
With a big snowstorm forecast, I wanted a cocktail that celebrated winter citrus and lifted the spirits. I’m also planning to roast a pork shoulder for Cubano sandwiches—comfort food and a citrusy cocktail seemed like the right pairing to bring warmth and cheer this weekend.
I didn’t have the exact vodka used at the restaurant, so I made an orange-infused vodka at home. Infusing spirits is fast and easy: add fruit to vodka and let it sit for a short time so the spirit takes on a hint of flavor. For a quick infusion like this, I used orange slices, rind and all, and let them steep for about two days. Because the infusion is brief, the orange pith didn’t impart noticeable bitterness. Before straining, I lightly muddled the slices to extract a bit more juice. The resulting vodka is pleasantly aromatic and could even be enjoyed chilled on its own.
For the sparkling element I used a chilled Cava. A dry, fruity sparkling wine pairs beautifully with citrus-forward cocktails, adding effervescence and a bright finish. I prefer a medium-priced bottle—nothing overly cheap or extravagant—just something with fresh, lively flavors to complement the orange.
Here’s to citrus, comfort food, and a little winter cheer. Cheers—who’s joining me?
PIN ‘Orange Sunshine Martini’
Orange Sunshine Martini
Barb
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka orange-infused if you prefer
- 1 oz orange liqueur Citronge or similar
- 1 oz orange juice
- 1 oz agave nectar or simple syrup
- chilled sparkling wine (Cava)
- orange wheel for garnish
Instructions
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Add the vodka, orange liqueur, orange juice, and agave (or simple syrup) to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously until the mixture is well chilled.
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Strain into chilled glasses, top with chilled sparkling wine, and garnish each with an orange wheel.
Notes
Nutrition