The story begins in Padua in 1919 when the Barbieri brothers created Aperol. However, the Spritz itself predates this, originating in Veneto during the Austrian occupation, where soldiers would lighten local wines with a 'spritz' of water. The modern Aperol Spritz gained momentum in the 1950s and exploded globally in the 2010s.
Aperol Spritz: La Dolce Vita
Like a liquid postcard from Venice, the Aperol Spritz captures the essence of Italian aperitivo culture. This vibrant orange stunner has transformed casual afternoon drinking into an art form, one sundrenched terrace at a time.
The Aperol Spritz embodies the Italian philosophy that the best things in life are often the simplest. With its striking coral hue and effervescent personality, it's a cocktail that demands to be enjoyed while watching the world go by, preferably from a sun-dappled piazza.
What makes this drink truly remarkable is its ability to be both sophisticated and approachable. The bittersweet notes of Aperol dance perfectly with the crisp bubbles of Prosecco, while a splash of Soda Water lengthens the drink and adds a refreshing lightness that makes it dangerously easy to enjoy.
The genius lies in its perfect balance. The gentle bitterness stimulates the appetite without overwhelming it, making it the ideal pre-dinner drink. Yet it's light enough to be enjoyed any time the sun is over the yardarm, which in Italy seems to be most of the day.
While some cocktails demand serious contemplation, the Aperol Spritz encourages relaxation and sociability. It's a drink that reminds us to slow down, catch up with friends, and embrace the Italian art of doing nothing, beautifully.
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A sparkling, bittersweet Italian aperitif perfect for summer.
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Did you know that Aperol Spritz...
caused a stir in 2019 when a controversial New York Times article dared to criticise this beloved drink, prompting a global defence of the orange aperitivo?
Who invented this cocktail
While the Spritz concept originated with Austrian soldiers in the 1800s, the Aperol Spritz as we know it today was standardised in the 1950s by the Barbieri company, who created the signature 3-2-1 recipe that became a global phenomenon.
The origin and history of "Aperol Spritz"
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Bartender Tips for making the perfect "Aperol Spritz"
Perfect your Spritz game with these Italian-approved tips:
- Use thoroughly chilled Prosecco and Aperol
- Add the Soda Water last for perfect bubbles
- Always serve with plenty of ice
- Use a large wine glass to capture the aromas
Aperol Spritz recipe
Prep: 3 minTotal: 5 min
Ingredients
- 90 ml PROSECCO
- 60 ml APEROL
- 30 ml SODA WATER
- 3 oz PROSECCO
- 2 oz APEROL
- 1 oz SODA WATER
Garnish
- ORANGE WEDGE
Preparation
- Prepare the glass with some ice
- Pour all the ingredients into the glass
- Stir gently till all ingredients have blended
- Garnish and serve
Nutritional Info
- Calories:212 kcal
- Alcohol units:1.7 units
- ABV (Alcohol By Volume)~10%
Dietary Info
VeganVegetarianGluten-freeDairy-free
Country of origin: Italy
"Aperol Spritz" Variations
- Use Campari instead for a more bitter Classic Spritz
- Try Select for an authentic Venetian Spritz
- Swap Prosecco for Champagne for a French Twist
- Add a splash of Fresh Orange Juice for a Spritz Sunrise
The Aperol Spritz isn't just a cocktail, it's an invitation to embrace the Italian way of life, one sun-soaked sip at a time.
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