The Aperol Spritz has taken the world by storm, becoming a symbol of summer afternoons, alfresco gatherings, and la dolce vita. With its vibrant orange color, refreshing flavor, and easy-drinking nature, it’s no wonder the Aperol Spritz has become one of the most popular cocktails around. But where did this iconic drink come from, what makes it so special, and how can you make the perfect Aperol Spritz at home? Here’s everything you need to know about Italy’s beloved sunset-hued aperitivo.
The Origins of the Aperol Spritz
The story of the Aperol Spritz begins in Italy, specifically in the Veneto region. “Spritz” originally referred to the Austrian tradition of diluting wines with a splash of water—an idea introduced when the Austrian Empire ruled parts of Northern Italy in the 1800s. Italians soon adapted this concept, replacing wine with local liqueurs like Aperol, and the modern spritz began to take shape.
Aperol itself was created in 1919 by the Barbieri brothers in Padua, Italy. They developed a low-alcohol aperitif with a unique blend of bitter and sweet flavors, made from a secret recipe of herbs, roots, and citrus. It wasn’t until the 1950s that the Aperol Spritz as we know it today—Aperol mixed with Prosecco and a splash of soda—became a widespread Italian tradition. Since then, it’s evolved into a quintessential aperitivo, a drink enjoyed before a meal to stimulate the appetite and bring people together.
Why the Aperol Spritz is So Popular
The Aperol Spritz has captured hearts worldwide for a few reasons:
- Refreshing and Light: With its relatively low alcohol content, the Aperol Spritz is a great choice for easy sipping, especially in the warm months. It’s light and refreshing, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon or evening.
- Vibrant Color and Visual Appeal: The cocktail’s striking orange color is instantly recognizable, adding a cheerful pop of color to any setting. It’s visually inviting, making it a popular choice for Instagram posts and social gatherings.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavor: Aperol is known for its bittersweet profile, with hints of orange, rhubarb, and gentian. When mixed with bubbly Prosecco and a splash of soda, the Aperol Spritz strikes the ideal balance between bitter, sweet, and fizzy.
How to Make the Perfect Aperol Spritz
One of the best things about the Aperol Spritz is that it’s incredibly simple to make. Follow these steps to create the perfect Aperol Spritz at home.
Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 oz (9 cl) Prosecco
- 2 oz (6 cl) Aperol
- 1 oz (3 cl) soda water (club soda or sparkling water)
- Ice
- Orange slice for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill the Glass with Ice: Start with a large wine glass filled with ice. The ice keeps the drink cool and helps dilute it slightly as you sip.
- Add Prosecco: Pour in the Prosecco first. Adding Prosecco before Aperol helps the liqueur mix more naturally and evenly.
- Add Aperol: Next, pour in the Aperol. The Prosecco and Aperol should combine to create the drink’s signature bright orange color.
- Top with Soda: Add a splash of soda water for a touch of effervescence. Adjust the amount to your taste—just a light splash is enough for a balanced drink.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with a slice of orange for a touch of color and extra citrus aroma. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tip: The classic recipe follows a 3-2-1 ratio: 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, and 1 part soda water. This is a great rule of thumb for adjusting the recipe based on the size of your glass.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
- Prosecco: Since Prosecco is the main base of this cocktail, go for a quality (but not overly expensive) bottle. Look for a dry or extra dry Prosecco, which has enough sweetness to balance Aperol’s bitterness without being overpowering.
- Aperol: As the star of the drink, Aperol’s blend of bitter and sweet flavors is essential. Its low ABV (11%) makes it ideal for creating a light, refreshing drink.
- Soda Water: A splash of soda water brings a hint of fizz and lightens the drink, making it even more refreshing. Club soda, sparkling water, or seltzer water all work well.
Tips for the Perfect Aperol Spritz
- Use Lots of Ice: The Aperol Spritz should be ice-cold, so don’t skimp on ice. Fill your glass to the brim with ice cubes to keep the drink well-chilled.
- Adjust the Bitterness: If you’re new to bitter flavors or prefer a slightly less intense drink, you can add a little extra Prosecco or soda water to soften the bitterness.
- Experiment with Garnishes: While a slice of orange is classic, you can experiment with other citrus garnishes like a lemon twist or a slice of blood orange. For a unique twist, try adding a sprig of fresh rosemary for a subtle herbal note.
- Serve with Aperitivo Snacks: For a true Italian experience, serve your Aperol Spritz with classic aperitivo snacks like olives, cured meats, cheese, or bruschetta. The salty, savory flavors complement the bittersweet drink perfectly.
Aperol Spritz Variations to Try
The classic Aperol Spritz is iconic, but you can experiment with these fun variations:
- Spicy Aperol Spritz: Add a slice of fresh chili or a dash of chili bitters for a touch of heat.
- Citrus Spritz: Mix in a splash of fresh orange or grapefruit juice for a fruitier take.
- Herb-Infused Spritz: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary, basil, or thyme to the drink for a fresh herbal aroma.
- Aperol Negroni Sbagliato: Inspired by the Negroni Sbagliato, swap the Prosecco for sparkling wine and add a splash of gin for a richer, more intense version.
- Limoncello Spritz: For a slightly sweeter and lemony spritz, substitute half of the Aperol with limoncello, an Italian lemon liqueur.
When to Enjoy an Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is ideal for any warm-weather occasion. It’s traditionally served as an aperitivo, Italy’s beloved tradition of enjoying a pre-dinner drink with light snacks. The light, fizzy nature of the drink makes it perfect for brunch, outdoor parties, and relaxed afternoons with friends. Its lower alcohol content also makes it a great choice when you want something refreshing and light but still full of flavor.
The Aperol Spritz: A True Italian Icon
The Aperol Spritz has become more than just a cocktail; it’s a lifestyle symbol that embodies the art of relaxation and enjoying the moment. Whether you’re sipping one on a sunny terrace in Italy or enjoying a homemade version at home, the Aperol Spritz is a reminder to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. With its balanced, refreshing taste and gorgeous color, it’s a drink that feels as vibrant and lively as an Italian summer.
So next time you’re looking to add a touch of Italian flair to your day, mix up an Aperol Spritz, find a sunny spot, and toast to la dolce vita. Salute!