Ingredients:

  • Ice: enough to fill the glass (about 1–1¼ cups / 240–300 g of ice cubes)
  • Grenadine (pomegranate syrup): 1/2 fl oz (15 ml) — adjust to 1 fl oz / 30 ml for a sweeter drink
  • Lemon-lime soda or ginger ale (chilled): 8 fl oz (240 ml)
  • Maraschino cherry (for garnish): 1 large (Luxardo or high-quality jarred cherry recommended)
  • Orange slice or lime wedge (optional garnish): 1 slice
  • Optional homemade grenadine: 1/2 cup (120 ml) pomegranate juice + 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar — simmer to syrup (makes ~1 cup)

Instructions:

  1. Chill glass and ingredients: place glass in fridge or freezer briefly; use cold soda for best fizz.
  2. Fill the glass with ice: add ice to about 3/4 full so ice reaches near the rim.
  3. Add grenadine: pour 1/2 fl oz (15 ml) grenadine over the ice. It will sink to the bottom and create a layered look. If using homemade grenadine, measure and cool before adding.
  4. Top with soda: slowly pour 8 fl oz (240 ml) chilled lemon-lime soda or ginger ale over the back of a spoon or directly to preserve some layering; soda should be bubbly and nearly fill the glass.
  5. Gently stir (optional): stir once or twice gently to combine if you want an even color; leave unstirred for a striped effect.
  6. Garnish and serve: skewer a maraschino cherry and place an orange slice or lime wedge on the rim. Serve with a straw and enjoy immediately while fizzy.