The Aperol Spritz is a beloved Italian aperitif cocktail that has become a global sensation in recent years. Originating from Venice and with roots in Padua, Italy, this vibrant orange-hued drink offers a delightful balance of bitter-sweet and herbal-citrus flavours, making it the perfect accompaniment to an evening of relaxation and socialising.
Key Takeaways
- Slightly bitter-sweet taste with zesty orange, complex herbal scents, and a touch of vanilla
- Follows the classic 3-2-1 ratio: 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, 1 part soda water
- Served over ice in a stemmed balloon or wine glass, garnished with an orange slice
- Versatile to adjust bitterness and alcohol content to personal preference
- Approved by the International Bartenders Association (IBA) as an official cocktail
Taste Profile of Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz boasts a slightly bitter-sweet taste, with zesty orange, complex herbal scents, a touch of vanilla, and citrusy notes. The bitterness comes from Aperol’s bitter oranges, rhubarb, and herbs, while the light and refreshing qualities are provided by Prosecco’s bubbly brightness and soda’s refreshing lightness.
The flavours are well-balanced between the herbal and citrus notes, making it a versatile and easy-to-sip aperitif. The drink can be made less bitter by adjusting the ratios, and it’s not syrupy when using the classic proportions.
Classic Recipe and 3-2-1 Ratio
The Aperol Spritz follows the 3-2-1 rule: 3 parts Prosecco (90 ml or 3 oz), 2 parts Aperol (60 ml or 2 oz), and 1 part soda water/club soda/sparkling water (30 ml or 1 oz/splash). The drink is served over ice in a stemmed balloon/wine glass and garnished with an orange slice.
The International Bartenders Association (IBA) official recipe is 9 cL Prosecco, 6 cL Aperol, and a splash of soda. The build order is Prosecco first, then Aperol, and soda last to preserve the bubbles.
Ingredients Breakdown
The key ingredients in an Aperol Spritz are:
- Aperol (a bright orange apéritif with 11% ABV, a bittersweet liqueur)
- Prosecco D.O.C. (a dry/brut sparkling wine with 12% ABV, lower in sugar for crispness; avoid Extra Dry/Dry as they are sweeter)
- Soda water/club soda/unflavored sparkling water (for fizzy dilution)
- Orange slice (an essential garnish that enhances the citrus flavours)
- Ice (plenty, for cold temperature)
Preparation and Serving Tips
To make an Aperol Spritz, fill the glass halfway with ice, add Prosecco (3 parts), Aperol (2 parts), and soda (1 part), then gently stir. Serve the Aperol Spritz immediately in a wine glass.
For batches, a small recipe is 8 servings (2 cups Aperol, 1 bottle Prosecco 750 ml, 1 cup soda), and a large recipe is 16 servings (4 cups Aperol, 2 bottles Prosecco, 2 cups soda). Be sure to chill the glass first before mixing the drink, and mix the pitcher just before serving to maintain the bubbles.
Variations and Adjustments
While the classic Aperol Spritz is a beloved recipe, there are several variations and adjustments you can make to suit your personal taste preferences:
- Less bitter: more Prosecco, less Aperol
- Less boozy: more soda
- Grapefruit Aperol Spritz (grapefruit juice + sparkling water + Aperol, grapefruit peel)
- Rosé Aperol Spritz (rosé + sparkling water + Aperol, green olives)
- IPA Aperol Spritz (IPA beer + Aperol + sparkling water)
- Apple Aperol Spritz (apple cider + Aperol + sparkling water, apple slices)
- Original Venetian Spritz (Prosecco + Select + soda + green olive)
Whether you prefer a less bitter or less boozy version, or want to explore different flavour combinations, the Aperol Spritz is a versatile and highly customisable cocktail that can cater to a wide range of tastes.
Sources:
Aperol.com: Aperol Spritz – How to make the original recipe
The Endless Meal: Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe (perfect ratio!)
Cookie and Kate: Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe
A Grateful Meal: Aperol Spritz Recipe (for One or a Batch for a Crowd)
Wikipedia: Spritz (cocktail)
Delish: Best Aperol Spritz Recipe
A Cozy Kitchen: Aperol Spritz Recipe
Umami Girl: Aperol Spritz Recipe 3 2 1
Inspired Taste (YouTube): Perfect Aperol Spritz Cocktail Recipe
BBC Good Food: Aperol spritz recipe
SAQ.COM: Spritz | Recette cocktail
Once Upon a Chef: Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe
