Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz is distinguished by its vibrant orange colour, bittersweet citrus flavour and refreshing sparkling texture. Aperol provides the characteristic orange and herbal notes, while Prosecco adds fruitiness and lively bubbles. Soda water lightens the combination without adding sweetness.

Compared with a Campari Spritz, an Aperol Spritz is generally softer, sweeter and less intensely bitter. A Sarti Spritz offers a fruitier alternative with more pronounced tropical notes.

These variations share the same basic Italian Spritz format, but changing the aperitivo creates a noticeably different cocktail.

The classic Aperol Spritz follows a simple 3-2-1 ratio: 90 ml Prosecco, 60 ml Aperol and 30 ml soda water. This balance gives the cocktail its distinctive bittersweet flavour, fresh citrus character and refreshing bubbles.

If you prefer a lighter Spritz, add a little more soda water. For a drier, less sweet result, choose a crisp Brut Prosecco. If you want a more pronounced Aperol flavour, slightly increase the aperitivo while keeping the sparkling wine well chilled.

Use plenty of ice and avoid vigorous stirring, which causes the Prosecco and soda water to lose carbonation. The finished drink should be cold, refreshing and pleasantly bittersweet.

The Aperol Spritz has its roots in Italy's aperitivo tradition, particularly in the Veneto region, where wine and sparkling water have long been enjoyed together before meals.

Aperol was created in Padua, Italy, in 1919. Its distinctive bittersweet orange flavour made it a natural addition to the regional Spritz, eventually creating the vibrant orange cocktail recognised around the world today.

The modern Aperol Spritz combines Prosecco, Aperol and soda water in the familiar 3-2-1 ratio. Its refreshing flavour, colourful appearance and simple preparation have helped make it one of Italy's most recognisable aperitivo cocktails.

The defining ingredient is Aperol, the iconic Italian aperitivo known for its vibrant orange colour, bittersweet citrus flavour and gentle herbal character. Its distinctive taste is essential to a classic Aperol Spritz.

For the sparkling wine, Mionetto Prosecco Treviso Brut DOC is an excellent choice. Its crisp acidity and lively bubbles balance Aperol's sweetness while keeping the cocktail fresh and refreshing. A dry Prosecco generally works particularly well.

Complete the drink with Fever-Tree Premium Soda Water, which adds clean carbonation without introducing additional flavours or sweetness. Avoid tonic water, as its quinine bitterness changes the character of the cocktail.

Finish with a fresh orange slice to complement Aperol's citrus aroma and give the drink its traditional Italian presentation.

The secret to a refreshing Aperol Spritz is using cold ingredients and preserving the bubbles. Chill the Prosecco and soda water before preparing the drink, then fill a large wine glass generously with ice.

Pour the Prosecco first, followed by Aperol and soda water. Stir only once or twice to combine the ingredients without releasing too much carbonation.

Avoid using warm Prosecco or leaving the finished cocktail standing for too long. An Aperol Spritz tastes best immediately after preparation, while the drink is cold, sparkling and aromatic.