Original Lemonade Recipe

For the Lemonade Hard Seltzer (per 4 servings / 1 bottle each)

1. 1

   Prepare simple syrup (if not already made)

   Combine equal parts granulated sugar and water in a small saucepan (for this recipe use 3 tbs sugar + 3 tbs water). Heat gently, stirring until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and cool completely. Chill before using.

2. 2

   Prep bottle rims (optional)

   If rimming bottles, pour the 2 tsp coarse sugar onto a small plate. Rub a lemon wedge around the top lip of each bottle, then dip the bottle mouth briefly into the sugar to coat. Set bottles upright in the refrigerator to chill while you mix.

3. 3

   Mix the lemonade base

   In a large pitcher, combine 1 cup fresh lemon juice, 3 tbs chilled simple syrup, and 1 tsp lemon zest. Stir thoroughly to dissolve and integrate the zest. Taste and adjust sweetness: add up to 1–2 tbs more simple syrup if you prefer sweeter lemonade, or a splash more lemon juice if you prefer brighter acidity.

4. 4

   Combine with seltzer

   Add 4 cups chilled neutral hard seltzer (or unflavored vodka seltzer) to the pitcher and gently stir once or twice to combine. If you want a lighter alcohol or extra fizz, add up to 1 cup cold club soda or seltzer and stir gently. Avoid vigorous stirring to preserve carbonation.

5. 5

   Assemble and serve

   Place a few ice cubes into each chilled bottle or into serving glasses (if pouring out of the bottle). Divide the lemonade hard seltzer evenly into 4 bottles or glasses (about 1 cup / 8 fl oz each). Garnish each bottle with a lemon wheel wedged on the rim and an optional mint sprig. Serve immediately cold.

6. 6

   Storage

   If not serving right away, keep the mixed beverage chilled and sealed; consume within 24 hours for best fizz and fresh lemon flavor. Do not carbonate in sealed bottles if using fermentation — this recipe assumes pre-carbonated hard seltzer.