One of the most popular and iconic beverages is Aperol Spritz. This classic Italian cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet, bitter, and bubbly, making it the ideal choice for a sunny afternoon or a relaxing evening with friends. In this guide, we'll explore the history of the Aperol Spritz and provide you with a simple recipe to create this delightful drink at home.
Aperol Spritz is an alcoholic aperitif based on Prosecco, Aperol and soda or sparkling water which is served in a wine glass. The Spritz originated in the Triveneto area of Italy, between the end of the eighteenth and the beginning of the nineteenth century, when the Austrian soldiers combined the particularly intense Veneto wine with Selz water, a very carbonated water which helped to dilute it. The term spritz derives, in fact, from the German "spritzen" which means to spray, and, in some areas of Italy, it is still served this way. In 2011 the IBA, International Bartender Association, officially recognized the Spritz prepared with Aperol as a cocktail, thanks also to its great success all over the world.
Ingredients for the Perfect Aperol Spritz
To create the perfect Aperol Spritz, you'll need the following ingredients (for 1 glass):
- 3 parts Prosecco (approx. 90 ml)
- 2 parts Aperol (approx. 60 ml)
- 1 part soda water or tonic water (approx. 30 ml)
- Ice
- Orange slice or green olive
- Wine glass
How to Make an Aperol Spritz
1. To prepare Aperol Spritz to perfection, start by filling a wine glass with ice.
Kristyna’s tip 1: Do not trust false myths abound ice: the more you use, the less you run the risk of watering down your Aperol Spritz because the ice will melt more slowly.
2. Pour three parts of Prosecco and add two parts of Aperol. To obtain a more uniform mixing and taste, pour the Prosecco first and then the Aperol: you will see that your cocktail will have a brighter orange colour!
Kristyna’s tip 2: As Prosecco Superiore DOCG is supposed to be drunk on its own, this is a rare occasion when I use Prosecco DOC. Of course, Prosecco DOCG can be used in cocktails and upgrade some drinks on a different level.
3. Complete with a part of soda or sparkling water… Or:
Kristyna’s tip 3: Give it a bitter twist with tonic water.
4. Give it a couple of stirs to blend the flavours.
Kristyna’s tip 4: do it delicately: in this way you will not lose the fizz.
Garnish with a nice slice of orange… or:
Kristyna’s tip 5: Don’t hesitate to be different – use giant green olive for garnish.
Variations on the Classic Aperol Spritz
While the classic Aperol Spritz recipe is a timeless favorite, there are several variations you can try to suit your personal taste:
- Aperol Spritz with a twist: Add a splash of freshly squeezed lemon or grapefruit juice for a citrusy kick.
- Herbal Aperol Spritz: Muddle fresh basil or mint leaves in the glass before adding the other ingredients for an aromatic twist.
- Bitter Aperol Spritz: Replace the soda water or tonic water with a bitter lemon soda for an extra layer of flavor.
- Non-alcoholic Spritz - If you want to make a non-alcoholic Spritz, use two parts of orange juice with bits and a splash of soda or tonic water. Use wine glass and slice of orange or olive as well.
Here you go, enjoy your perfect aperitif and let me know which combination is your favourite.
Salute!
Kristyna
