The refreshing Aperol Spritz classic cocktail features Aperol, prosecco and club soda for a sparkling bubbly aperitif. Learn how to make it at home!

The Aperol Spritz is an iconic cocktail. With its striking orange hue and refreshing flavor profile, it’s captured the hearts and palates of cocktail enthusiasts around the globe.

But what truly sets this drink apart and makes it truly magical? Part of the allure lies in its ability to transport you to an idyllic Italian terrace overlooking picturesque landscapes dotted with charming villages.

With every sip, you can almost feel a warm Mediterranean breeze caress your skin and hear the chatter of friends gathered for aperitivo hour.

What is Aperol?

Aperol is an Italian aperitif liqueur originally produced by the Barbieri company. It’s made from a blend of various herbs and roots, including rhubarb and cinchona among others. 

The drink is most notable for its vibrant orange color, which makes it a favorite choice in cocktails, and its bittersweet flavor. 

Aperol has a unique taste, slightly bitter yet sweet and fruity, making it quite refreshing when mixed with Prosecco or other sparkling wines.

Sounds like Campari

If that description sounds familiar, you’re right. And if you almost liked Campari but not quite, you should definitely give Aperol a try.

Aperol and Campari are both Italian aperitifs and they do share some similarities, including a characteristic bitter flavor due to their infusion of herbs and botanicals. 

However, there are some significant differences between them.

Campari tends to have a stronger, more bitter taste compared to Aperol, which is slightly sweeter and has half the alcohol content of Campari. Campari’s color is also darker than Aperol’s vibrant orange.

Truthfully, you can use them interchangeably in cocktails. It will absolutely change the flavor profile, sometimes in a bad way. 

For example, in the Aperol Spritz, Campari would make it much more bitter and strong. But in some drinks, you can go with whichever you prefer.

Choosing Your Prosecco

Besides Aperol, this drink contains prosecco and club soda. So there are no tricks to picking the right ingredients for this drink. Aperol is Aperol. Club soda is… club soda. 

The prosecco is the only thing you have to pick. Most brands are pretty tasty, especially once mixed into a cocktail. But if you want suggestions:

1. La Marca Prosecco – This sparkling wine is crisp with a fresh flavor that includes hints of honey and white peach. It’s versatile and pairs well with many mixers.
2. Mionetto Prosecco Brut – Featuring flavors of honey, black licorice, and roasted almond, Mionetto is refreshing and works well in cocktails.
3. Valdo Oro Puro Prosecco Superiore – A high-quality choice, Valdo Oro Puro offers floral notes and low acidity, making it an excellent choice for cocktail mixing.
4. Ruffino Prosecco DOC – Ruffino has a light, fruity taste which makes it great for mixing without overwhelming other flavors in your drink.
5. Zonin Prosecco Cuvee 1821 – This budget-friendly option has a clean taste with notes of pear and peach, making it an ideal base for cocktails.

Remember, the best way to find your preferred brand is by trying different ones and seeing which you prefer in your cocktails!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Aperol Spritz Cocktail

It’s very easy to make an Aperol Spritz. You don’t even need a cocktail shaker.

Step 1: Get your ingredients together. You will need a bottle of Aperol, a sparkling prosecco, and soda water. Don’t forget the all-important orange slice garnish! Chill the ingredients beforehand to bring out the best flavors.

Step 2: When you’re ready to pour, put some ice cubes in a wine glass.

Step 3: Pour in each of the ingredients, in the order listed in the recipe.

Step 4: Put the orange slice or wheel either on the rim of your glass or down in the glass.

Foods to Pair With Your Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe

With a cocktail this vibrant and refreshing, it’s only fitting to have the perfect snacks to complement its distinctive character. 

When it comes to finding the ideal snacks to accompany your Aperol Spritz, think of light and savory bites that harmonize with its citrusy notes and bitter undertones. Try a classic combination – a platter of freshly sliced Prosciutto di Parma and creamy chunks of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

The saltiness of the prosciutto beautifully contrasts with the cocktail’s slight sweetness, while the nutty richness of Parmigiano-Reggiano complements its herbal notes.

Here are some other suggestions:

1. Charcuterie: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses and pickled vegetables can balance the sweet-bitter taste of an Aperol Spritz.
2. Seafood: Light seafood dishes like calamari, shellfish or a shrimp cocktail can be a good match.
3. Bruschetta: The classic Italian appetizer of tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic and onion on toasted bread is a great pairing.
4. Olives: Marinated olives offer a salty contrast to the sweetness of Aperol Spritz.
5. Pizza: Thin crust pizza with fresh ingredients is a classic pairing for any Italian cocktail.

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