Russian Spring Punch


A vibrant, sparkling highball with vodka, lemon, raspberry liqueur, and Champagne.


Base spirit
Vodka
Style
Sparkling
Glassware
Highball glass

The Russian Spring Punch is a modern classic that bridges the gap between a Collins and a fruit punch. It enriches a vodka sour base with the deep berry notes of crème de cassis before lengthening it with sparkling wine. The result is effervescent, fruity, and sophisticated, with a visual appeal that made it a hit in 1990s London. It demonstrates how vodka can anchor a complex, layered drink without muting the other ingredients.


A tall Russian Spring Punch with a blackberry and lemon slice garnish.

Ingredients

Servings
  • 1 oz vodka
  • 0.5 oz crème de cassis
  • 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 0.25 oz simple syrup
  • Sparkling wine to top

Did you know?

Created by legendary bartender Dick Bradsell in London in the 1980s, the drink was reportedly designed to be affordable enough for friends to buy in rounds while still feeling luxurious.

Source:Dick Bradsell archives; PunchDrink

Bartender's Note

Use a high-quality crème de cassis to avoid an artificial sugary finish.

How to make the Russian Spring Punch

  1. 1Shake vodka, cassis, lemon juice, and syrup with ice
  2. 2Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice
  3. 3Top with sparkling wine
  4. 4Garnish with a lemon slice and blackberry

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