The history of splashes, the most famous types of splashes, interesting facts
Fröccs is a simple yet sophisticated drink made from a mixture of wine and soda water. This classic Hungarian drink has also become a symbol of the country over time. Did you know that in 2013 it was included in the Hungarian Heritage List? The different proportions of wine and soda water give a very different perception of the acidity of the wine and the bubbles of the soda water, so the fröccs can take many different forms. Fröccs is not just a drink, it is a way of life. A refreshing and convivial drink, it's perfect not only for chilling out, but also for chatting with friends, relaxing in the afternoon or enjoying a sunset on the Danube.
But where does fizz come from, how is it made, what are the most popular types of fizz, and what makes it really good? We'll find out!
What is a spritzer and why is it great especially in summer?
In the summer, a cold, light white wine is a pleasant drink on its own, but when added to soda water it reduces the alcohol content and quenches thirst better. That's why spritzers are an excellent choice for hot days, because they cool and refresh, yet retain the character of the wine.
The history of the spritzer: Ányos Jedlik and sparkling water
Fröccs is closely linked to Hungarian ingenuity. In 1826, Ányos Jedlik invented the soda water machine, which revolutionised the world of beverages and later became the essential ingredient for fröccs. Legend has it that in 1842, in András Fáy's cellar in Fót, Jedlik was mixing a bottle of soda with his wine, when Mihály Vörösmarty exclaimed, „That was a fröccs!” And so, instead of the German „Spritzer”, the Hungarian word „fröccs” was born - and with it a national favourite.
During the reform era, the spritzer became an important part of social life. It first came into vogue in cafés and then spread more widely, creating the cultural foundation it still represents today.
Making a fizz is easy, but there are a few golden rules that make it really good.
How is a good spritzer made?
- Always use well-chilled wine and soda water.
- It is important that pour the wine into the glass first and then add the soda - so that the aromas of the wine are better preserved and the fizz is better.
- The soda water is preferably added freshly drained, with a strong carbonation, to make a truly bubbly, refreshing and invigorating drink.
The proportions are determined by your taste or the type of spritzer you choose - the most popular big splash for example 2 dl of wine and 1 dl of soda. A well-prepared spritzer does not dilute the wine too much, but enhances its freshness.
Which wines make the best spritzers?
A dry or semi-dry white wines are best for a spritzer they fit. In particular, light wines made with the so-called reductive method, which are brightly acidic and made from fragrant grape varieties. The carbonic acid in the soda water only enhances the aromas and does not overpower the character of the wine.
It could be a good choice:
- Italian Riesling - is the most popular sparkling wine because of its lively acidity.
- Oliver Irsai, Cserszegi Spicy, Green veltelini - these fragrant grape varieties are particularly ideal for spritzing.
Today, more and more people also prefer rosé as a spritzer, as rosé is made from blue grapes and has a much fruitier flavour.
The best-known types of spritzer and their names
The splash is basically the the ratio of wine to soda water is given different names depending on. Here are some known types:
A big splash (2 dl of wine + 1 dl of soda), for example, is the perfect ratio when the wine is still dominant in taste, but the soda is a nice boost.
How is the Krúdy splash made?
Gyula Krúdy, the legendary writer was also famous for his love of spritzers. He is responsible for one of the most unusual versions:
Krúdy splash = 9 dl wine + 1 dl soda
It's barely what you'd call a spritzer, at this rate the soda water gives it just a tiny boost. The Krúdy fizz is recommended for those who are looking for the taste of wine first and foremost.
More frequently asked questions about spritzers
Can sparkling mineral water replace soda water?
We do not recommend. Soda is a carbonated water with a neutral taste, while mineral water is a natural water with mineral notes. The neutral taste of soda water does not affect the aromas of the wine.
What temperature should the soda be?
4-6 °C; this allows carbon dioxide to escape more slowly and the drink stays lively for longer.
Can ice cubes go in it?
Blasphemy among spritzer fans, it just waters down the wine. The wine and soda should be nice and cold.
Can the spritzer be prepared in advance in larger quantities?
At most 2-3 minutes before consumption, otherwise the bubbles in the soda water, which is the essence of a fizz, will disappear.
Can red wine be made into a spritzer?
Yes, but only from light, fruity, low-tannin red wines (such as Kadarka), otherwise the carbonation will result in a bitter taste.
Is it not the same whether you add the soda to the wine or pour the wine into the soda?
The professionals pour the wine into the glass first, then the soda water, so that the effervescence mixes the two components.
What is the difference between a spritzer and a spritzer?
Not really: spritzer is the German word for "fröccs". In Hungarian catering, the name fröccs has become established, the recipe and philosophy are the same.
Is there an official splash day?
Yes, 31 July is National Fröccs Day, a day when several wine events celebrate the favourite Hungarian drink.
What are the ideal foods to drink with a fröccs?
The spritzer pairs well with many dishes.
- For summer salads, grilled fish and soft cheeses, a light, refreshing spritzer or a big spritzer is a great choice.
- The new rosé spritzer trend goes well with street food.
- But it remains a favourite drink with traditional Hungarian dishes made with paprika for its refreshing acidity and bubbles, and its digestive properties.
Are there more speciality spritzers?
The more creative restaurants are also introducing a range of fizzes that are no longer just wine and soda. Here are a few special fizzes:
- MaNcs: a little orange syrup is added to the spritzer to sweeten the drink
- Ginger splash: made with lightly sparkling ginger water instead of soda water
- Soil splash: white wine spritzer spiked with elderberry liqueur
- Raspberry spritzer: splashes coloured and perfumed with raspberry liqueur
Why we love the Spritz at the Rowing Beer Garden
A On the banks of Rome, Sitting by the Danube with a refreshing splash in your hand can be a real experience in the summer heat! Visit Rowing in the beer garden high quality spritzers are waiting for you: carefully selected Hungarian wines, freshly tapped soda, available in various proportions. Evezős Sörkert and discover the true face of the fröccs!
Sources of the pictures: freepick.com, Szodas.hu, Vinoport, Hellowine, Mindmegette
