Easy Copycat Olive Garden Venetian Sunset Recipe

The Olive Garden Venetian Sunset stands as one of the most visually stunning cocktails in casual dining, combining the effervescence of Italian sparkling wine with tropical pineapple juice and a dramatic grenadine float. This sophisticated yet approachable drink captures the romance of an Italian sunset with its gorgeous color gradient that slowly transforms from golden yellow to deep red,

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Why This Recipe Works

The magic of the Venetian Sunset lies in its beautiful layered presentation and balanced flavor profile. The sweet, bubbly Asti provides an elegant base, while pineapple juice adds tropical sweetness and body. The grenadine creates the signature sunset effect as it slowly sinks through the layers, creating a visual spectacle that’s as impressive as it is delicious. The key is using the proper floating technique to achieve that stunning color gradient.

Ingredients

• Asti – Italian sparkling wine that provides a sweet, bubbly base with floral notes
• Pineapple juice – Adds tropical sweetness and creates the golden color layer
• Grenadine – Creates the dramatic red sunset effect and adds subtle pomegranate flavor

Optional Garnishes:

• Pineapple chunks – Reinforces the tropical theme and adds textural interest
• Maraschino cherry – Classic cocktail garnish that complements the sweet profile
• Orange slices – Adds citrus aroma and visual appeal

Do I have to use Asti?

No, you don’t. Any sparkling white wine will do. Although those that tend to be on the sweet side will better match the characteristics of Asti.

In this Olive Garden Venetian Sunset drink, a good substitute for Asti is another famous Italian sparkling wine, Prosecco.

Prosecco is brighter than Asti and less sweet, but it is delightful in this cocktail. Don’t bother with using an expensive Prosecco, but don’t go too cheap either. If you can find a demi-sec Prosecco, use it, but you don’t want to go much drier than a bottle labeled “dry.” Freixenet is a good, inexpensive Prosecco that many people enjoy.

Other good options include:

• Spanish Cava such as Dulce Anna Cava.
• Sweet Sparkling Rosé such as Graham Beck Bliss Nectar Rosé.
• Demi-Sec Champagne such as Veuve Clicquot or Piper Heidsieck Sublime.

For an alcohol-free cocktail, you can even use sparkling apple juice, like Martinelli’s Gold Medal Sparkling Apple Cider.

How to Float Grenadine on Top of a Drink

The beauty of this drink comes from the thin layer of grenadine on top as it slowly blends with the yellow pineapple juice. You need to know how to float the grenadine on top to get the right effect. Luckily, it isn’t too tricky.

1. Pour the pineapple juice and sparkling wine into a champagne flute.
2. Place a bar spoon against the inside of the glass just about the level of liquid in the glass.
3. Slowly pour the grenadine over the back of the bar spoon. Serve immediately.

More Olive Garden Drinks

• Berry Sangria
• Blue Hawaiian
• Green Apple Sangria
• Italian Margarita
• Watermelon Margarita
• Watermelon Sangria

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Check out more of my easy cocktail recipes and the best Olive Garden drink recipes here on CopyKat!