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One particular cocktail that will forever take me back to Italy is the Aperol Spritz—a refreshing concoction made with prosecco, Aperol, and sparkling water. This easy-sipping summertime aperitivo will take you straight to the beautiful beaches of Positano. Ciao, prego, prego!
Table of Contents
Brief History
The Aperol spritz has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century in northern Italy. Created by the Barbieri brothers, the founders of the Aperol brand, it was originally intended as an aperitif—a pre-dinner drink to stimulate the appetite. Its fame spread across Italy and eventually found its way onto the international cocktail scene.
I love this cocktail because it’s refreshing, slightly sweet, and just bitter enough to keep it interesting. It’s easy to make and requires no bar tools as it’s assembled right in its serving glass.
Prosecco can also be used in a French 75, and you can use your Aperol in the classic bourbon based Paper Plane cocktail.
Ingredients
- Prosecco: prosecco is an Italian sparkling wine (the Champagne of Italy) that adds refreshing fizz to the Aperol Spritz. Its crisp and light character complements the bitter-sweetness of Aperol.
- Aperol: a bright orange-hued Italian liqueur that sits at forefront of this cocktail. It boasts a unique blend of bitter and sweet flavors, with notes of orange, herbs, and spices. Also see my El Chipilo cocktail featuring Aperol.
- Sparkling Water: the addition of sparkling water balances intensity of the Aperol and prosecco while enhancing the drink’s overall thirst-quenching nature. Soda water/club soda is a common substitute.
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities below.
How to Make an Aperol Spritz
Step 1.
Combine Aperol and prosecco in a wine glass filled with ice.
Step 2.
Top with sparkling water and stir to mix. Garnish with half an orange slice. Serve with a straw for the most authentic experience!
Expert Tips
- Prosecco is affordable and easy to find. Look for dry (brut) Prosecco such as Mionetto. Kirkland brand and La Marca are also great options in the $10-$15 range.
- The Aperol Spritz is traditionally served in a stemmed wine glass, however you can also use a stemless wine glass.
- My favorite ice to use in this cocktail is bagged party ice. It’s clear, flavorless and melts slowly.
More Cocktails You’ll Love
Enjoy this recipe? If you made this cocktail, please leave a ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ star rating in the recipe card below & a review in the comments!
Aperol Spritz Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 ounces Prosecco, any brand will do
- 2 ounces Aperol
- 1 ounce sparkling water, or club soda
- Orange slice, for garnish
Instructions
- Combine prosecco, Aperol, and sparkling water in a wine glass with ice.
- Stir with a barspoon to mix and garnish with half an orange slice.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Just returned from my 1st trip to Italy and I fell in love with the aperol spritz! Already bought the prosecco and aperol so I can make them now that we’re home!
I love this cocktail! I enjoy it with your homemade pizza. Someday I will get to Italy but for now, I will enjoy this drink!
Ciao!
Paula