Classic Aperol Spritz

What says Summer more than a classic aperol spritz? It is a refreshing, vibrant, bittersweet classic Italian cocktail perfect for enjoying anytime but especially as a pre-dinner aperitivo. It is a sparkling blend of zesty orange, prosecco and sparkling water. We share our recipe for this fresh taste of Summer/Italy yet it’s so simple you almost don’t need one. Once you have your basic ingredients you are on your way to enjoying this tasty cocktail all Summer long! It’s the perfect cocktail for a warm day and great with appetizers and small plates.

Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe Ingredients

• ICE: We personally prefer using crushed ice but large cubes are recommended because they melt slower. We also like filling our glass with ice first but ‘drinkologist’ recommend adding ice to the glass last so that you don’t affect the prosecco carbonation - pouring over ice could weaken the carbonation. Really it’s up to what you prefer. We usually top with some sparkling water so you will have plenty of carbonation regardless.
• PROSECCO: Prosecco is a crisp, aromatic Italian sparkling wine. It is known for its many bubbles, fresh fruity notes, and approachable price. It is used as the base for this cocktail. The best Prosecco for an Aperol Spritz is a Brut or Extra Dry. Because Aperol is naturally sweet, you want a crisp, dry sparkling wine. But if you prefer a less dry version use that - it really is up to your taste.
• APEROL: Aperol is an Italian bitter apéritif with a vibrant bright-orange hue. “Aperol” is derived from apéro—a popular French slang term for apéritif - aperitivo hour traditionally enjoyed before a meal to stimulate the appetite, usually enjoyed over ice with mixer - like this classic Aperol Spritz. It has a combination of flavours from rhubarb, gentian root, Cinchona - a tree bark and bitter sweet oranges. There are other variations of this cocktail that use other liqueurs - in fact we just made some delicious limoncello Spritz’s recently but Aperol is key in making the classic version.
• SPARKLING WATER: Adding a splash or topping up with sparkling water to Aperol in an Aperol Spritz—adds crisp effervescence, lightens the alcohol content, and balances the liqueur’s bittersweet flavor. A classic Aperol Spritz, uses unflavored club soda or seltzer water but if you want to put a fun spin on your spritz, use a citrus or fruit-flavored sparkling water like Blood orange, grapefruit, lemon or or lime-flavored waters that will complement the citrus notes in Aperol
• ORANGE SLICES: Fresh orange slices are added to Aperol to complement its flavor profile, enhance the aroma, and add visual appeal. The orange peel release a fresh, citrusy scent.
  
  

Tips For Making A Great Aperol Spritz

• Keep Everything Chilled: If we know we are making spritz’s - we put everything in the fridge for a least a few hours so everything is well chilled - Aperol, prosecco and sparkling water.
• The Glass Matters: Use a large wine glass or a bubble glass/ ballon glass. You can technically drink a spritz out of anything, but the right glassware ensures your drink stays cold, bubbly, and perfectly aromatic. The long stem on the glass keeps the warmth of your hands away from the bowl, ensuring your drink stays ice-cold and doesn’t dilute too quickly.
• Go Heavy On The Ice: Fill your glass at least half way to all the way to the top with ice. It melts slower than just a few cubes and ensures your drink stays crisp and refreshing
• Use Fresh Orange Slices: This is a must. Not only for visual effect but I like to squeeze a little juice into my cocktail and release some of the aromas from the orange peel which help add even more flavor.
  
  

Serving Ideas With Your Aperol Spritz:

• Citrus Marinated Olives and Feta
• Roasted Tomatoes With Burrata
• Easy Pepperoni Pizza Crostini
• Greek Bruschetta With Grilled Bread
• Charcuterie Dip
• Marinated Olives With Whipped Feta
• Marinated Goat Cheese Spread
• Classic Charcuterie Board