Sunrise Spritz Mocktail Recipe: The Non-Alcoholic Spritz That Looks Like Sunshine in a Glass

Looking for a non-alcoholic cocktail that’s really, really pretty? Meet the Sunrise Spritz Mocktail, the morning half of our Sunrise/Sunset Spritz Mocktail Series. 

With vibrant citrus, sparkling bubbles, and gorgeous golden-orange hues, this easy alcohol-free spritz takes its name from the vibrant colors of early morning, and it feels like sunshine poured over ice. It’s bright, bubbly, and perfect for brunch—no actual early mornings required!

This mocktail delivers all the spritz vibes—minus the hangover.

And honestly? Those sunrise colors deserve their own fan club.

Why You'll Love This Sunrise Spritz Mocktail

This non-alcoholic spritz is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly beautiful. Fresh mandarin juice brings natural sweetness and vibrant citrus flavor, while a non-alcoholic Italian aperitif adds complexity and that signature bittersweet spritz character.

Top it off with sparkling alcohol-free wine and a few dashes of orange bitters, and you’ve got a drink that tastes elevated without requiring any bartending expertise.

It’s:

  • Light and refreshing
  • Perfect for brunch, happy hour, or anytime sipping
  • Beautiful enough for entertaining
  • Ready in minutes
  • Completely alcohol-free
  • Easily customizable with functional ingredients like digestive bitters

What Is a Sunrise Spritz?

Think of the Sunrise Spritz as the brighter, citrusier cousin of the classic Aperol Spritz.

Instead of relying on alcohol, this version uses a non-alcoholic Italian-style aperitif paired with sparkling NA wine to create that familiar bittersweet, bubbly experience. Fresh mandarin juice adds natural sweetness and gives the drink its stunning sunrise-inspired glow.

The result is crisp, citrus-forward, slightly bitter, and incredibly refreshing.

Ingredients You'll Need

Serves: 2

Ingredients:

  • 1 oz fresh mandarin juice (or orange juice)
  • 2 oz Lyre’s Italian Spritz or NA aperitif of your choice (Use ONTHEMOCKS for 10% off)
  • 3 oz sparkling NA wine (we used Lyre’s Classico – ONTHEMOCKS gets you 10% off)
  • 4 dashes non-alcoholic orange bitters
  • Ice
  • Orange slice for garnish

How to Make a Sunrise Spritz

  • Add plenty of ice to a wine glass or large stemmed glass
  • Pour in the fresh mandarin juice
  • Add the non-alcoholic Italian spritz and orange bitters
  • Slowly pour in the alcohol-free sparkling wine
  • Add an orange slice and admire those gorgeous sunrise colors before taking your first sip.

Give The Sunrise Spritz A Functional Twist

One of the best things about alcohol-free cocktails is how easy they are to customize.

Want to give your Sunrise Spritz a wellness boost? Add a few extra dashes of digestive bitters or your favorite gut-supporting botanical blend.

You’ll still get all the flavor and sophistication of a classic spritz while incorporating ingredients that support digestion and overall wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use orange juice instead of mandarin juice?

Absolutely. Mandarin juice offers a slightly sweeter, more delicate citrus flavor, but orange juice works wonderfully.

What does a Sunrise Spritz taste like?

It’s citrusy, lightly bitter, bubbly, refreshing, and slightly sweet. Think sunshine, sparkling wine, and a classic Italian aperitif all rolled into one.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best assembled just before serving so the bubbles stay fresh and lively.

Is this recipe completely alcohol-free?

Yes, when made with non-alcoholic spirits, and alcohol-free bitters.

Sunrise Spritz Mocktail

Not every spritz has to wait for sunset. Sometimes all you need is a big stemmed glass, a splash of fresh mandarin juice, a non-alcoholic Italian aperitif, and a slow pour of alcohol-free bubbles to bring golden hour to brunch. This Sunrise Spritz Mocktail is proof that alcohol-free spritzes can be just as vibrant, bittersweet, and occasion-worthy as their boozy counterparts.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course Drinks
Servings 2

Ingredients
  

  • 2 oz Lyre's Italian Spritz or NA aperitif of your choice
  • 3 oz sparkling NA wine
  • 4 dashes non-alcoholic orange bitters
  • Ice
  • Orange slice for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Add plenty of ice to a wine glass or large stemmed glass
  • Pour in the fresh mandarin juice
  • Add the non-alcoholic Italian spritz and orange bitters
  • Slowly pour in the alcohol-free sparkling wine
  • Add an orange slice and admire those gorgeous sunrise colors before taking your first sip.
Keyword fruity, italian, mocktail, spritz