Aperol Spritz
A vibrant Venetian aperitivo marrying bittersweet Aperol, crisp Prosecco, and a splash of soda for sunny, effervescent sipping.
9%
ABV
easy
Difficulty
wine
Glass
Flavor Profile
History & Heritage
“The spritz tradition began in 19th‑century Veneto when Austro-Hungarian soldiers lightened local wine with water. Aperol was created in Padua in 1919, and by the 1950s the Barbieri brothers promoted the now-iconic 3-2-1 formula of Prosecco, Aperol, and soda. Global popularity exploded after Campari Group's 2003 acquisition and savvy marketing that turned the orange-hued drink into a symbol of Italian aperitivo culture and social media summer living.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Fill a large wine goblet to the brim with ice
Add chilled Prosecco
Pour in Aperol
Top with soda water and give one gentle stir
Garnish with a thick orange half-wheel
Glassware
Served over ice in a wine glass
Garnish
Thick slice tucked among the ice
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Chill all components—including glassware—for maximum refreshment
Use plenty of ice so the drink stays cold without overdilution
Express the orange slice over the drink before dropping it in
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
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Sour
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Bitter
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Strong
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Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Aperol Spritz.
Rosé Spritz
Substitutes sparkling rosé for Prosecco to add berry notes and a blush hue.
Changes
Gin-Boosted Spritz
Adds a splash of gin for extra botanical bite.
Changes
Campari Spritz
Uses Campari instead of Aperol for a bolder, more bitter profile.
Changes
Select Spritz
Venetian original featuring Select aperitivo in place of Aperol.
Changes
Hugo
Elderflower, mint, and lime replace Aperol for a floral Alpine spritz.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Lemonade Spritz
Limoncello, dry Prosecco and bright lemonade built over ice for a sun‑ready spritz.
Campari & Soda
Campari and soda water with orange. The simple Italian aperitivo.
Negroni Sbagliato
Equal-parts Campari, sweet vermouth and prosecco build a bubbly, lower-proof cousin of the Negroni born from a happy mistake.