Slightly bitter and refreshingly sweet, the Aperol Spritz brings back memories of hot, summer days by the sea.
Amongst my friends and loved ones, I’m the only one that enjoys Campari. The deep red, amazingly bitter and delicious Italian liqueur is the star of many famous cocktails, most notably the Americano and the incomparable Negroni. But one of the reasons I’m alone in my love for Campari is because my social circle finds it to be too intense of an experience, or too complex a flavor. Sad, yes. Do they have a more palatable option to choose from? Also, yes.
Tonight’s cocktail features that alternative, the Aperol Spritz. In 1800s Veneto, soldiers from the Habsburg army would imbibe the local wines, indulging themselves and waking up with pretty heavy heads. Since they discovered fairly quickly that the higher potency of the local vino was hitting them hard, they began to ask for a spritzen, German for “spray”, of water in their beverages. This lengthened, as well as softened, their drinks. Over the decades, this formula evolved into what we today know as a spritz.
The Aperol Spritz is a classic and popular version of the cocktail, which is known for its vibrant orange color. Our recipe is topped off with prosecco, which adds a nice, crisp and dry effervescence to the mixture.
What is Aperol?
Aperol is a slightly bitter liqueur that mixes gentian root and cinchona bark along with rhubarb, citrus, and other ingredients. It’s an aperitif, meant to be had before meals to stimulate the appetite. It was invented by the Barbieri brothers in 1919 when they inherited their father’s liquor company. Though it has long been a popular drink in the Veneto region of Italy, it only really began to make its mark in North America after Campari took over the company in the early 2000s. I’ve been finding it at all of my local grocery stores without a problem, so it should be easy enough for anyone to find a bottle.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces Aperol
- 3 ounces prosecco
- 1 ounce soda water
- Orange slice for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Begin by filling a wine glass with cubes of ice.
- Pour Aperol into the glass over the ice
- Add the prosecco.
- Add the soda water, and garnish with an orange slice.
Nutrition
What glassware and garnish is used?
A large and tall wine glass is the way to go with an Aperol Spritz. Big enough to carry your drink as well as the ice it’s poured over. Don’t forget the fresh orange slices for garnish!
Can You Use Other Bubbly Wines instead of Prosecco?
Of course! Champagne is always a good, if not somewhat expensive, choice depending on what you get. Cava and sparkling wine is also a delectable option, but I’d suggest sticking to dry varieties… you don’t want your Spritz to get too sweet.
Similar Cocktails to the Aperol Spritz
It may be cold outside and all the leaves might have fallen off the trees, but your head is still somewhere by the pool, trying to beat the summer heat with an icy cold cocktail. Winter? Nah. In your little world, it’s time for a stroll on the beach with a bubbly Spritz in your hand. Or maybe you’re in the mood for another fizzy refreshment. Try these out, and keep those warmer memories going.
- Hugo Spritz – Elderflower brings this light and floral tipple to life.
- Americano – Campari, sweet vermouth and club soda mix together for a perfect midday sip.
- Limoncello Spritz – Citrusy, strong and delicious, the Limoncello Spritz is perfect any time of the year.
- White Wine Spritzer – Having a lazy day? Make it even better with this light and crisp cocktail.
Leave a Comment