Aperol Spritz Recipe: The Perfect Summer Aperitivo

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The Aperol Spritz is the aperitivo of choice across Italy and increasingly the world. It is low-alcohol, bittersweet, and perfect for warm evenings. Here is the definitive recipe, plus how to customize it to your taste.

Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe (The 3-2-1 Method)

The traditional Italian formula is easy to remember: 3 parts prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, 1 part soda water.

Ingredients (1 serving)

• 90ml (3 oz) Prosecco
• 60ml (2 oz) Aperol
• 30ml (1 oz) soda water or club soda
• Large ice cubes
• Orange slice to garnish

Method

1. Fill a large wine glass with big ice cubes.
2. Pour in the Aperol first.
3. Add the Prosecco – pour gently to preserve the bubbles.
4. Top with a splash of soda water.
5. Stir once gently and garnish with a half slice of orange.

Choosing the Right Prosecco

Use a dry (Extra Dry or Brut) Prosecco. The Aperol is already sweet, so a sweeter Prosecco makes the drink cloying. La Marca, Mionetto, and Ruffino are reliable affordable options. Avoid using cheap sparkling wine – the quality shows in a simple 3-ingredient drink.

Aperol Spritz Variations

• Campari Spritz: Substitute Campari for Aperol – more bitter, more complex, less sweet. For those who find Aperol too sweet.
• Hugo Spritz: Elderflower liqueur (St. Germain) + Prosecco + mint + cucumber. More floral and delicate.
• Limoncello Spritz: Limoncello + Prosecco + soda. Brighter and more citrus-forward.

The Right Glassware

A large wine glass is traditional and correct. The wide bowl lets you add plenty of ice, keeps the drink cold, and allows the aroma to develop. Large wine glasses for spritz cocktails

Serving Aperol Spritz for a Crowd

For parties, batch it in a pitcher: combine Aperol and Prosecco in the 2:3 ratio, add soda water individually to each glass. Do not add ice to the pitcher – it dilutes too fast. Large glass pitcher for cocktails

Related Reading

• Aperitifs and Digestifs Guide
• How to Build a Home Bar
• 5 Easy Spring Cocktails

See also: Aperol Spritz vs Campari Spritz