Spritz Aperol with a Twist

Wondering how to make the perfect Spritz Aperol and what to mix in with your Aperol? Italy’s almost fluorescent orange “aperitivo” drink has become a world-wide hit over the past couple of decades. If you’re a fan and are looking to get that unmistakable aperitivo taste at home, here are three versions you’ll want to try

First, a little background to Aperol… 

The original recipe was created in 1919 by the Barbieri brothers just outside Padua, not far from Venice and the recipe has hardly changed since. In 2003, Italian drinks giant Campari bought the brand, and used their distribution channels to launch it to global fame. Aperol is a combination of plants and rhubarb that combine to make a bitter-sweet taste that should be mixed in the following proportions: 

• – 2 parts Aperol 
• – 3 parts sparkling wine (choose from below) 
• – Splash of sparkling water 

Top tips for enjoying your Spritz Aperol, in any version:

• Make sure the wine you’re going to mix in has been in the fridge for a few hours
• Don’t miss out the orange slice / zest – it’s that extra bit of flavour that makes the difference
• Add the ice cubes at the end otherwise the wine will lose its fizz to quick.

1) Traditional Version : with Prosecco . Traditionally Aperol is mixed with Prosecco, the Veneto region’s sparkling wine (produced in the same area), sparkling water and a slice of orange but can also be mixed with other italian sparkling wines for a different experience. 

2) Brusco-Spritz : with Lambrusco. Instead of white prosecco, try adding in Italy’s second-most famous sparkling wine, Lambrusco from Emilia-Romagna. Rather than the traditional sweet Lambrusco, we’d go for a Secco, such as Concerto by Medici Ermete. You could experiment with the darker versions of Lambrusco such as Lambrusco Reggiano or Grasparossa, or try mixing in a light Lambrusco di Sorbara which will give you a deeper orange colour. Both versions will be sure to give it a twist of red fruits. 

3) Moscato Spritz : If you’re looking to tone down the bitterness of the Aperol, substitute the Prosecco for Slightly Sparkling Moscato d’Asti – add just a bit more moscato than Aperol. 🥂