The Aperol Spritz cocktail is an Italian aperitif that has become my go-to during the summer months. This classic Italian cocktail has a bittersweet flavor and makes the best pre-dinner drink. There’s nothing like a spritz on a warm summer day. Its vibrant color, refreshing taste, and simple preparation make it a favorite refreshing drink summer gatherings and aperitivo hour. It’s such a simple drink, and is so refreshing! Let’s dive into the classic Aperol Spritz recipe.

 

Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe – How to Make the Best Cocktail

This recipe isn’t exactly difficult to find, but it’s one I get asked about often enough since I drink spritzes all summer long. If you’re making your first Aperol spritz, this is one of the easier cocktail recipes to make. 

The origins of the Aperol Spritz can be traced back to Italy in the early 20th century. Aperol was created in 1919 by the Barbieri brothers in Italy. It quickly became popular due to its unique, bittersweet taste and low alcohol content, making it an ideal choice for a light and refreshing drink. However, the Spritz concept dates back even further. In the 1800s, Austro-Hungarian soldiers stationed in Italy would dilute the local wine with a splash (or “spritz” in German) of water to make it more palatable. Over time, this evolved into the beloved cocktail we know today, incorporating sparkling wine and Aperol.

The Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe

The beauty of Aperol Spritzes lies in its simplicity, and the original recipe is as good as it gets. This classic cocktail requires only a few ingredients and can be prepared in a matter of minutes. The best way to make a classic Aperol Spritz is 3:2:1, representing three parts Prosecco, two parts Aperol, and one part soda water. It’s bitter, but not too bitter, and is the perfect summer drink. Pair it with some potato chips and you’ll feel like you’re on the Italian Coast. Put it in a big wine glass and you have yourself the perfect drink. 

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Aperol Spritz Ingredients

You only need a handful of ingredients to make this cocktail. 

• Aperol
• Prosecco
• Club soda
• Ice cubes
• Fresh orange slice from a navel orange

How to Make an Aperol Spritz

A classic Aperol spritz is so easy to make, and is typically 2 parts aperol, 3 parts Proseccoo, 1 part club soda, ice, and a fresh orange slice. 

1. Fill the Glass with Ice: Start by filling your glass generously with ice cubes. The ice not only chills the drink but also helps to maintain the balance of flavors as it slowly melts.
2. Add Prosecco: Pour three parts of Prosecco into the glass. Prosecco is an Italian sparkling wine that adds a delightful fizz and a touch of sweetness to the cocktail. The quality of Prosecco can greatly influence the final taste, so opt for a decent bottle.
3. Add Aperol: Next, pour two parts of Aperol into the glass. Aperol is the key ingredient behind this bright orange cocktail. It has a distinct flavor, characterized by bitter orange, rhubarb, and herbs. 
4. Top with Soda Water: Finish off the drink with a splash of club soda. This adds a refreshing effervescence and helps to lighten the cocktail.
5. Gently Stir: Using a bar spoon or a stirring stick, gently stir the mixture to combine all the ingredients. Be careful not to over-stir, as you want to retain the bubbles from the Prosecco and soda water.
6. Garnish: Finally, garnish your Aperol Spritz with a slice of orange. The orange peel not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the citrus notes in the Aperol.

Tips for the Perfect Aperol Spritz

1. Chill Your Ingredients: Ensure that your Prosecco, Aperol, and soda water are well chilled before preparing the cocktail. This helps to maintain the drink’s refreshing quality.
2. Quality Ingredients: Use a good quality Prosecco and fresh soda water. The better the ingredients, the better the taste of your Aperol Spritz.
3. Experiment with Garnishes: While a slice of orange is traditional, you can also experiment with other garnishes such as an olive, a sprig of mint, or even a twist of lemon peel for a unique touch.
4. Adjust to Taste: The 3:2:1 ratio is a guideline. Feel free to adjust the proportions to suit your personal preference. If you prefer a less bitter drink, you can reduce the amount of Aperol slightly.
5. Serve Immediately: The Aperol Spritz is best enjoyed fresh. Prepare it just before you’re ready to serve to ensure it retains its effervescence and vibrant flavor.