The Aperol Spritz has its origins in Italy, specifically in the northeastern region of Veneto. It was first created in the 1950s as a way to showcase Aperol, a bitter orange liqueur with a distinct bright orange hue. Aperol was initially used as a medicinal tonic, but its bitter and slightly sweet taste made it a natural choice for cocktails. In the 2000s, the Aperol Spritz gained renewed popularity, particularly during the summer months, and has since become an iconic Italian aperitivo (pre-dinner drink) that is enjoyed around the world.
Holy Aperoli.
So, why has the Aperol Spritz become so popular in recent years? One reason is that it's a relatively low-alcohol cocktail, which makes it perfect for daytime drinking or for those who want to enjoy a few drinks without getting too tipsy. Additionally, the bright orange color and refreshing taste make it a perfect Instagram-worthy cocktail. Lastly, it's perfect for large gatherings. It's easy to make a big batch of the cocktail ahead of time, so you can spend more time enjoying the party and less time playing bartender.
How to make an Aperol Spritz:
Ingredients:
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The star of the show, Aperol is a bitter liqueur made from herbs, roots, and bitter oranges. It has a unique flavor profile with notes of bitter orange, gentian, and rhubarb, and is known for its bright orange color.
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A dry, sparkling wine from Italy, Prosecco adds a bubbly and refreshing element to the Aperol Spritz. Its crisp and fruity notes complement the bitterness of Aperol perfectly.
- Soda water, or club soda, adds a touch of fizz and dilutes the drink, making it a lighter and more refreshing option for hot summer days.
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A fresh orange slice is often used as a garnish for the Aperol Spritz, adding a burst of citrus aroma and a pop of color to the drink.
Method:
- Fill your large glass with plenty of ice
- Add 3 parts Prosecco (75ml), then 2 parts Aperol (50ml)
- Add a dash of soda (25ml) and stir briefly
- Garnish with an orange slice and enjoy!
Tips and variations:
Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, you can add a splash of simple syrup or adjust the ratio of Aperol to Prosecco to suit your taste.
Experiment with garnishes: While a fresh orange slice is the classic garnish for an Aperol Spritz, you can also try other citrus fruits like lemon or grapefruit, or add a sprig of fresh mint for an extra burst of flavor.
Get creative with variations: The Aperol Spritz is a versatile cocktail that can be customized to your liking. You can swap Prosecco with other sparkling wines, such as Champagne or Cava, or even try different liqueurs for a twist on the classic recipe. For example, Campari can be used for a more bitter and intense version,
the Aperol Spritz is a simple yet delicious cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're sipping on one at a rooftop bar or making a big batch for a summer party, the Aperol Spritz is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not give it a try and see why it's become one of the most popular cocktails around the world?
