A Classic Aperol Spritz Italian Cocktail Recipe
The Aperol Spritz is a classic Italian cocktail that has gained immense popularity in recent years. With its refreshing and bubbly nature, it has quickly become a favorite among cocktail lovers around the world.
Whether you’re sitting on a sunny patio or enjoying a late afternoon happy hour, the Aperol Spritz is the perfect summer drink to quench your thirst. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the classic Aperol Spritz recipe, its history, and the best ways to enjoy this iconic Italian cocktail.
What is an Aperol Spritz?
The Aperol Spritz is a bubbly cocktail that originated in Italy. It is made with three simple ingredients – Aperol, prosecco, and club soda, and is typically garnished with a slice of orange.
Aperol is a bright orange Italian aperitif that has a bitter and slightly sweet taste. It is made with a blend of herbs, roots, and orange peel, giving it a unique and refreshing flavor. Prosecco, a sparkling wine, adds a bubbly and light touch to the cocktail, while club soda adds a bit of fizz.
The History of Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz has a long history dating back to the 1800s when it was first created in Italy. It was initially known as the “Spritz Veneziano,” named after the Italian town of Venice. The cocktail was a favorite among the locals and was commonly served as an aperitif before the main meal. However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that the Aperol Spritz gained popularity outside of Italy.
In the 1950s, the Aperol Spritz was marketed as a low-alcohol alternative to stronger cocktails, which made it a popular choice among those looking for a light and refreshing drink. The cocktail became even more famous when the Campari Group acquired Aperol in the 1990s and began promoting the drink in the United States. Today, the Aperol Spritz has become an iconic Italian tradition, and it is enjoyed all over the world.
The Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe
Making a classic Aperol Spritz is incredibly easy, and it only requires a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
3 ounces of prosecco
2 ounces of Aperol
1 ounce of club soda
An orange slice for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Fill a large wine glass with lots of ice cubes.
Step 2: Add 3 ounces of prosecco to the glass.
Step 3: Pour 2 ounces of Aperol over the prosecco.
Step 4: Add a splash of club soda.
Step 5: Give the drink a gentle stir.
Step 6: Garnish with an orange slice.
Step 7: Enjoy your refreshing Aperol Spritz!
Different Ways to Enjoy an Aperol Spritz
While the classic Aperol Spritz recipe is delicious, there are many different ways to enjoy this cocktail. Here are a few variations you can try:
Add a splash of orange juice for a sweeter twist on the classic recipe.
Use a slice of orange instead of an orange wedge for garnish.
Add a splash of limoncello for a citrusy kick.
Substitute Aperol with Campari for a stronger and more bitter version of the cocktail.
Use green olives instead of an orange slice for a savory twist.
Add a splash of limoncello for a citrusy kick.
The Perfect Summer Drink
The Aperol Spritz is the perfect summer drink. Its refreshing and thirst-quenching nature makes it a popular choice during the hot summer months. The combination of Aperol, prosecco, and club soda creates a bubbly and light cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a front porch or enjoying by the pool. The best part? It is incredibly easy to make, and the ingredients can be found in most liquor stores.
Aperol Spritz in the Winter
While the Aperol Spritz is known as a summer cocktail, it can also be enjoyed during the colder months. To make a winter Aperol Spritz, use less Aperol and add more prosecco to balance out the bitter taste.
You can also add a splash of orange juice or a slice of orange for a touch of sweetness. This winter version of the Aperol Spritz is perfect for cozy nights by the fireplace or holiday gatherings with friends and family.
Tips for the Perfect Aperol Spritz
Here are a few tips to help you make the perfect Aperol Spritz:
The parts of Aperol, prosecco, and club soda can be adjusted based on personal preference. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add more Aperol. If you prefer a bubblier drink, add more prosecco.
Use a big wine glass to ensure there is enough room for the ice, prosecco, and club soda.
Use a good quality prosecco for the best taste. Proseccos range in sweetness, so choose one that suits your taste buds.
Use plenty of ice to keep your drink cold and refreshing.
For a traditional Italian Aperol Spritz, use a slice of orange instead of an orange wedge for garnish.
For an extra bubbly drink, use a cocktail shaker to mix the ingredients before pouring them into a glass.
If you prefer a less bitter drink, use less Aperol and add more prosecco and club soda.
The Aperol Spritz is a classic Italian cocktail that has stood the test of time. With its simple ingredients and easy recipe, it has become a popular choice for happy hours, summer parties, and gatherings with friends.
Whether you enjoy it on the streets of Rome or on your front porch, the Aperol Spritz is the perfect cocktail for any occasion. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a refreshing and bubbly drink, give this Italian classic a try and experience the true taste of “la dolce vita.” Cheers!
The Classic Aperol Spritz Italian Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 ounces of prosecco
- 2 ounces of Aperol
- 1 ounce of club soda
- An orange slice for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large wine glass with lots of ice cubes.
- Add 3 ounces of prosecco to the glass.
- Pour 2 ounces of Aperol over the prosecco.
- Add a splash of club soda.
- Give the drink a gentle stir.
- Garnish with an orange slice.
- Enjoy your refreshing Aperol Spritz!
You might also like…
If you love pumpkin spice as much as I do, you’ll love this list of the best pumpkin flavored coffees for fall!