Yuzu and Pink Pepper Spritzi
At Tesco via Germany.
This is a fun international combination of an Italian drink concept, Japanese flavour and German inspiration and know-how. Yuzu and Pink Pepper Spritzi from Tesco is perfect for a celebration.
But first, what is Spritzi? I guess it comes from the German word for spritz meaning splash, as in a splash of soda in a drink. A spritz is thought to have originated in Padua, Italy in 1919. The Spritzi collection is a sparkling ready-to-drink wine-based aperitif. It is less alcoholic than wine, being 8.4% ABV instead of around 11-14% for wine.
The Spritzi Yuzu and Pink Pepper variety is absolutely not Italian. It’s made in Germany by Peter Mertes KG, a company better known for its Riesling wines. Tesco market this unique sip as an alternative to a G&T – and it likely is. The ribbed bottle is rather retro, its pale pink hue is inviting, and it has a gentle sparkle.
The flavour profile is complex with the unmistakable notes of yuzu along with hints of sweet tropical fruit. There are botanical notes and a touch of bitterness as one would expect from a classic aperitivo. I can see why it would be a good choice for a somewhat different pre-dinner libation, and less predictable than the usual G&T.
I like it. It’s unique and flavourful. It would be ideal for a dinner party when served well-chilled with some small, perfectly formed savoury canapes. Yuzu and Pink Pepper Spritzi comes in both small and large bottles, making it convenient for a crowd at home or for taking on a picnic.
