Embrace “la dolce vita” with this light, refreshing drink that combines sweet and bitter orange flavors with delightful effervescence!
Italians really seem to know how to savor life’s little moments. Whether it’s a hot espresso or a chilled aperitivo, they love to linger over a drink while connecting with friends.
This Aperol spritz recipe celebrates Italy’s vibrant culture. The boot-shaped Mediterranean country has given the world so much—from aqueducts and arches to Leonardo da Vinci and gelato—it’s difficult to know where to start. But the uniquely striking bitter apéritif Aperol is a great choice.
Its refreshing and complex bittersweet flavor profile forms the foundation of this Aperol spritz recipe. Notes of citrus peel, subtle vanilla, and herbal roots, along with just enough bitterness to stimulate the appetite, make it perfect for a traditional Italian pre-meal sip. When paired with effervescent prosecco and soda water, the bright orange liqueur takes on a character as exciting as a first glimpse of the Colosseum.
Enjoy this drink in the company of good friends. Let its rich color and delightful sparkle remind you of the sweeter things in life!
The secret behind Aperol
Italian brothers Luigi and Silvio Barbieri experimented for seven years before perfecting Aperol. They finally hit on the perfect recipe in 1919 while working at their family’s liqueur company in Padua, Italy. The harmonious balance of sweet, herbal, and gently bitter flavors arises from a combination of ingredients that remains a closely guarded secret to this day. We only know that some of those ingredients are bitter and sweet oranges, rhubarb, gentian root, and cinchona bark—a natural source of quinine. The rest is a mystery. With an alcohol content of 11%, Aperol offers a lighter, more approachable profile compared to its cousin Campari, making it the essential foundation for the iconic Aperol spritz and a mainstay of Italy’s aperitivo culture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Aperol spritz cocktails in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days—but note that the flavor and carbonation will quickly decline after the first day. This drink does not freeze well, nor does it lend itself to pre-mixing. Assemble individual drinks just before serving to maintain the signature sparkle of the prosecco and soda water. A well-sealed bottle of Aperol will keep in the fridge for 3-4 months. A partially used bottle of prosecco will generally keep its fizz for 1-3 days in the fridge, so long as it’s resealed with a tight-fitting stopper.
Serving suggestions
Serve an Aperol spritz alongside dishes that celebrate Italian cuisine. Excellent choices include rich and hearty Veal Marsala, bright and tomatoey Chicken Puttanesca, and this homemade Italian Wedding Soup Recipe.
Ingredients
- 3 ounces prosecco
- 2 ounces Aperol
- 1 ounce soda water
- 1 orange slice for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large wine or balloon glass with ice.
- Pour the prosecco into the glass.
- Add the Aperol.
- Top with soda water.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a fresh orange slice, if desired. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
Leave a Comment