Capturing the essence of a perfect early evening, the Aperol Spritz emerges as a visual delight that tastes like an adventure waiting to unfold. As the sun dips towards the horizon and the clock strikes 6 p.m., the golden hour beckons the spritz, an artful blend of flavors that has cultivated an intriguing following.
With Italy as its originator, spritz hour has been an Italian tradition for generations, meticulously honed and refined. In a seamless transoceanic exchange, the #spritzlife hashtag has surged across the Atlantic, thanks in no small part to Aperol’s astute marketing campaign in 2017, enveloping the United States in a vibrant, effervescent tide.
Fun Fact: The Aperol Spritz was initially created to introduce the relatively low-alcohol Aperol to the local population of Veneto, Italy.
The Aperol Spritz possesses undeniable allure – its effervescence, a chilled demeanor, and a hue reminiscent of sunset’s attraction make it an embodiment of aperitif culture. It is a quintessential example, characterized by subtle bitterness that primes palates for the evening’s culinary indulgences.

Aperol Spritz Classic Recipe
Equipment
- No special equipment is required for making an Aperol Spritz.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Prosecco You can use any good quality Prosecco.
- 1,25 oz Aperol You can substitute with another bitter orange aperitif if desired.
- 1/5 oz Soda water Club soda
- 1 Slice of orange for garnish
- Ice for serving
Instructions
- Fill a wine glass with ice cubes.Ice
- Pour 2 oz of Prosecco into the glass.2 oz Prosecco
- Add a splash (about 1/5 oz) of soda water for a bubbly twist.1/5 oz Soda water
- Gently pour 1,25 oz of Aperol, giving the drink its distinct orange color and bitter-sweet flavor.1,25 oz Aperol
- Stir the ingredients gently to combine.
- Garnish the glass with a slice of orange.1 Slice of orange
- Your Aperol Spritz is ready to be enjoyed!
Video
Notes
Pro Tips for Success
- Use a good quality Prosecco for the best flavor.
- Adjust the Aperol quantity based on your taste preference – some like it more bitter, while others prefer it milder.
- Ensure the drink is well-chilled by serving cold ingredients over ice.
- Garnish with an orange slice just before serving to enhance the visual appeal.
Nutrition
- Calories: ~130-150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~15-20 g (mainly from Aperol and Prosecco)
- Sugar: ~12-16 g (naturally occurring in Aperol and Prosecco)
- Alcohol: ~10-15 g (from Prosecco and Aperol)
Our thinks about Aperol Spritz Classic.
The Aperol Spritz isn’t a symphony of complexity. Its components, from the Aperol to the prosecco, may be something other than the haute cuisine of the cocktail world. Yet, that’s the charm. This Italian classic isn’t a drink to analyze intricacies but to savor life’s everyday joys.
It’s about embracing sun-soaked moments, letting Vespas whiz by, and exchanging laughs with friends. The Aperol Spritz is about the atmosphere, not analytical tasting notes. It’s not just a drink; it’s a vessel of shared moments, a reminder that sometimes the simple things in life are the ones that truly matter.
If you’re in the mood for a citrusy twist on the classic Aperol Spritz, you might want to try a Limoncello Spritz. This variation swaps out the traditional Aperol for zesty Limoncello liqueur, creating a bright and refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for a sunny day
What is the best way to drink Aperol?
Here are seven ways to savor Aperol’s essence:
- Highball with a Twist: Mix Aperol with soda and a lemon twist. Elevate it with fresh citrus juice and simple syrup. Opt for the Italian Americano twist with Aperol, sweet vermouth, and soda.
- Aperol Negroni: Swap Campari in a classic Negroni for a balanced blend of gin, Aperol, and Dolin Blanc vermouth—a rosy perspective on the Negroni.
- On the Rocks: Enjoy Aperol’s bittersweet charm over ice with an orange twist. Its sunny hue matches the ambiance of a day well-spent.
- Bubbly Delight: Elevate the highball with bubbles. Combine Aperol with Prosecco or cava, serving it in a champagne flute with a sunk strawberry—a sultry summer treat.
- Citrus Infusion: Experiment with Aperol and citrus by swapping half the fresh citrus in your favorite cocktails. It partners effortlessly with margaritas, daiquiris, and more.
- Rhubarb Fusion: Utilize Aperol’s rhubarb element by creating a rhubarb syrup. Infuse this into classic cocktails or Aperol mixes to balance the bitterness.
- Vodka Infusion: For a spirited kick, enhance Aperol’s lightness with vodka. This combination offers a subtle punch to your summer sips.
Why is Aperol Spritz so popular now?
The soaring popularity of Aperol Spritz can be attributed to several key factors, resulting in its widespread appeal and consumption surge. Notably, Aperol Spritz has become emblematic of leisure and enjoyment, fostering a global phenomenon:
- Post-Pandemic Reopenings: Following pandemic-related closures, the reopening of bars and restaurants contributed to the spike in Aperol sales. Establishments stocked up to navigate impending inflation, driving up consumption.
- Versatility and Occasions: Aperol Spritz has expanded beyond its traditional setting, finding its way into various occasions such as brunches and informal dinners. The Campari Group’s marketing efforts have positioned it as a versatile drink that fits diverse social experiences.
- 3-2-1 Campaign: The “3-2-1” campaign, highlighting the official Aperol Spritz recipe, sparked the drink’s popularity explosion. This campaign resonated with younger audiences, offering an accessible and trendy alternative for socializing, coupled with light snacks.
- Aggressive Marketing: Aggressive marketing played a pivotal role, especially in the US. Campari America targeted affluent beachgoers and social media influencers at summer events and festivals, amplifying the drink’s presence and desirability.
- Health-Conscious Trend: Aperol Spritz aligns with the growing health-conscious trend among consumers. It’s lighter in alcohol content and sugars than traditional beverages, appealing to those seeking refreshing options.
- Delightful and Refreshing: Aperol Spritz’s unique combination of bitterness, citrus, and effervescence offers a refreshing and enjoyable experience, making it a cherished “drink of summer.”
The drink’s charm lies in its taste and ability to capture the essence of relaxed and friendly moments, whether at a Veneto-café or on a Brooklyn stoop, making it a beloved and cherished choice worldwide.

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