Martini Royale Cocktail Recipe
A spritz cocktail, the Martini Royale is a light sweet and sour drink for aperitivo o’clock.
If you’re looking for a cocktail that feels fancy but takes almost zero effort, this Martini Royale recipe is it. Light, bubbly, and citrusy, the Martini Royale cocktail is basically the chic Italian cousin of a traditional martini. This easy aperitif drink is perfect to sip before dinner, while you’re cooking, or as guests start to arrive. Like our Martini Spritz, this cocktail is a refreshing twist on the classic Spritz family. It’s bubbly, elegant aperitivo designed to awaken the appetite before the main meal.
What is a Martini Royale?
A Martini Royale is a sparkling Italian aperitivo made with Martini Bianco (or Martini Rosso), fresh lime juice and prosecco. Unlike a classic gin martini, the Martini Royale cocktail is served over ice in a wine glass and topped with bubbly prosecco. It’s lighter, brighter, and way more session-friendly. If you’ve ever wondered how to make a Martini Royale, the answer is: incredibly easily.
What is an Aperitivo?
An aperitivo is a traditional Mediterranean pre-dinner ritual, especially popular in Italy, Spain, and Greece. Rooted in the philosophy of the Mediterranean lifestyle, it’s all about slowing down, sharing small bites, and gathering around the table for good conversation before the main meal.
An aperitivo is typically served before lunch or dinner and includes salty snacks like cured meats, cheeses, olives, and other easy finger foods. It’s paired with light, refreshing drinks such as vermouth, wine, or beer. Sparkling cocktails are especially popular. Think this Martini Royal, Martini Fiero, Martini Spritz, or Aperol Spritz (anything crisp and bubbly that gently awakens the appetite).
Martini Royale Ingredients
- Martini Bianco: Also known as “Bianchissimo” or extra white. It is a lightly sweet Italian vermouth made from white wine infused with vanilla and delicate botanical notes. If you prefer a richer, slightly spicier profile, Martini Rosso adds more depth and warmth to your Martini Royale recipe.
- Prosecco wine: Substitute with Cava or Champagne if needed. Just be sure to choose a dry option like brut nature, extra brut, or brut since Martini Bianco already adds sweetness.
- Fresh lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the Martini Royale drink and balances the sweetness of the vermouth with crisp citrus flavor.
- Ice: Unlike a classic gin martini, the Martini Royale cocktail is served over ice in a wine glass. The ice keeps it extra refreshing and makes this sparkling aperitivo cocktail perfect for slow sipping. We prefer crushed ice to quickly chill the drink.
- Fresh mint: To garnish but to also add the final touches of aroma.
How to Make a Martini Royale
Step 1 — Fill the Glass
Fill a large wine glass generously with ice (about 3/4 full).
Step 2 — Add the Vermouth and Fresh Lime Juice
Pour Martini Bianco and lime juice over the ice.
Step 3 — Top with Prosecco
Slowly pour in the chilled prosecco.
Step 4 — Stir & Garnish
Gently stir. Lightly “smack” the mint sprig between your hands to release its aroma and oils. Then, add it to the glass with a lime wheel. Serve immediately while cold and bubbly.
Recipe Notes & Tips
If you want your Martini Royale recipe to taste restaurant-level good:
- Chill your prosecco and vermouth first.
- Use fresh lime juice only.
- Serve in a large wine glass (not a martini glass).
- Don’t over-stir. Keep those bubbles alive.
Since this Martini Royale drink is so simple, quality ingredients really matter.
FAQs About the Martini Royale
Is a Martini Royale strong?
No. The prosecco lightens it up. It’s lower in alcohol than a traditional martini.
Can I make a Martini Royale ahead of time?
You can mix the vermouth and lime juice ahead, but always add prosecco right before serving.
What’s the difference between a martini and a Martini Royale?
A traditional martini uses gin or vodka. A Martini Royale cocktail uses vermouth and prosecco for a sparkling, lighter drink.
More Easy Cocktails
For more tasty cocktail recipes, here are a few to add to your drink menu —
Equipment
- Wine goblet
Ingredients
- 3 oz Martini Bianco
- 3 oz Prosecco wine
- 1 oz lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 mint sprig for garnish
- 1 lime wedge for garnish
- Ice cubes crushed
Instructions
- Fill a large wine glass generously with ice (about 3/4 full).
- Add the Martini Bianco and lime juice.
- Top with Prosecco.
- Gently stir. Lightly “smack” the mint sprig between your hands to release its aroma and oils. Then, add it to the glass with a lime wheel. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Tried this recipe? Share your Martini Royale with us on Instagram, using the hashtag #sugarandclothloves. We always love seeing all of your creations! Looking for more quick and delicious recipes? Find them all right here!
Please note that we may earn a commission for some of the above affiliate links. However, products featured are independently selected and personally well-loved by us!
LOVED this! Adding it to the weekend cocktail rotation!
Thank you, Courtney!
I am a huge prosecco fan so this cocktail is right up my alley! It’s fun and delicious!
So happy to hear! We are huge fans of Prosecco and bubbles too!
The BEST cocktail recipe ever!! So so delicious! Can’t wait to make again & again!!
Thanks, Jen!!
this is my new favorite drink, thank you so much for sharing this!
You’re welcome, Monica! XOXO