Well, we aren't going to be in Italy this summer, but you can bet we're bringing a slice of the Italian life state side! Everyone gets an Aperol Spritz!
Table of Contents
Why I Love This Recipe
If you've never had a Classic Aperol Spritz before, let me be the first to welcome you to what could be your new favorite light summer spritzy drink of choice. I say summer because it really has it's moment when you're walking around pretty much any Italian piazza and all the outdoor patios are bursting with humans, these gorgeous orange hued cocktails and laughter. But if we're being honest, I'll order one any time of the year!
My first Aperol Spritz came about a few years ago when we went to Italy for my birthday. Before then, didn't know what all the fuss was about, but after 1 sip, I was hooked. The recipe varies depending on who's behind the bar, but after countless evenings filled with a spritz or three, this is my spin! It's lighter on the Aperol that you'll find in Italy but just ever so slightly!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Aperol - can be found just about anywhere at your local market or liquor store.
- Prosecco – you'll want to get a dry prosecco which is an inexpensive Italian sparkling wine like Spanish Cava and great for making a spritz
- Club Soda – or sparkling water (while not authentic, we really love this with a plain Topo Chico)
- Garnishes – traditional garnishes are either a slice of orange, lemon, or my personal favorite - a castelvetrano olive or two!!
*For a full list of ingredients and instructions please see recipe card below
How to Make an Aperol Spritz
Add ice to a wine glass until it is nearly full. Pour in the Aperol followed by the prosecco and give it a quick stir.
Top your drink off with a splash of sparkling water and add a slice of orange.
Tips & Tricks
The only tips and tricks when it comes to making an Aperol Spritz are as follows:
- Use a large wine glass because you want a decent amount of ice
- Don't use the recipe on the back of the Aperol bottle as that has too much Aperol in the cocktail ratio in my opinion
- Throw a twist of orange into the glass for a garnish! It truly brightens the flavor up even more!
FAQs
What kind of alcohol is Aperol?
Aperol is a bright orange apéritif. (which just means that it's usually an alcoholic drink taken before a meal to stimulate the appetite but I drink it throughout an entire meal and have never regretted it!)
What is Aperol Spritz supposed to taste like?
Aperol has a zesty orange flavor with hints of herbs and a touch of vanilla. It's hard to explain but trust me, it's good! Especially in a spritz!
More Summer Cocktails
If you tried this recipe, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it goes in the 📝 comments below. Thanks for visiting today!
Classic Aperol Spritz
Equipment
Ingredients
- crushed ice
- 2 ounces Aperol
- 3 ounces dry Prosecco
- 2 ounces sparkling water / soda water (while not authentic, we really love this with a plain Topo Chico)
- Orange for garnish
Instructions
- Add ice to a wine glass until it is nearly full. Pour in the Aperol followed by the prosecco and give it a quick stir.
- Top your drink off with a splash of sparkling water and add a slice of orange.
I agree with you Gaby! This version is much better than the one on the Aperol bottle! Perfect ratios for excellent flavor! I was at a restaurant and ordered one and it came with a sprig of rosemary and an orange slice. Mostly for looks, not muddled.
My favorite drink! I do like a little more Aperol than most. And, your Paloma with salted rim is to die for.
Our favorite Italian drink is somewhat different:
Champagne glass filled with Prosecco and a tumbler of Aperol on top...that's it. Yummy. During the summer especially, we have this treat on a Saturday afternoon after working very hard in the garden.. Thank you for your recipe.
What brand of Aperol do you recommend?
there's only 1!! It's called Aperol 🙂
Why have I not tried this yet? I am late to the game and need this to pretend I am in Italy as well!!
My favorite drink! Sad I won't be leaving on my planned trip to Italy tomorrow 🙁
Also - just tried it with rose, and some passionfruit juice/a splash of lime instead of club soda !!!
Cheers to Friday with this aperol spritz!! It's hands-down the prettiest drink on the porch tonight!
This may sound silly, but I love the shape of your ice! unfortunately I hate the shape of my freezers ice cubes- but your posts NEVER disappoint!!! I can never decide which to try!!!