Aperol Spritz is a popular Italian cocktail made from Aperol, Prosecco and soda water, served over ice and garnished with an orange slice. The drink is known for its refreshing flavor with notes of orange and a slight bitterness, making it perfect for summer evenings.
The history of the Aperol Spritz cocktail
The history of the Aperol Spritz cocktail dates back to the early 20th century when brothers Silvio and Luigi Barbieri created Aperol aperitif in 1919 in Padua, Italy. The name Aperol comes from the French word "apéro" meaning aperitif. However, the Aperol Spritz cocktail itself came somewhat later, becoming popular in the 1950s when Italians began mixing Aperol with Prosecco and soda water.
The history of the Spritz as a cocktail dates back to the 1800s in the Veneto region of northern Italy, when Austrian soldiers in Italian territories began adding water to local wine to make it less strong. This custom of "diluting" drinks transformed over time, and carbonated drinks and aperitifs such as Aperol began to be used instead of water.
Today, the Aperol Spritz is one of the most popular summer cocktails served in bars and restaurants around the world. It can be found either in a small bar or by visiting a Georgian restaurant.
Ingredient selection
To make the perfect Aperol Spritz cocktail, it is important to choose the right Aperol Spritz mix of quality ingredients. First, Aperol is an Italian aperitif with a bittersweet taste and a distinctive orange color. It has aromatic notes of herbs and citrus, which makes it the base of this cocktail. The second important ingredient is Prosecco. Choose dry Prosecco, as sweeter types can change the flavor balance of the cocktail. Good Prosecco can be found in the price range of $12 to $18, and it should be refrigerated before use.
The third ingredient is soda water. It adds the necessary carbonation to the drink and helps balance the sweetness of the Aperol. Also, be sure to use ice - it not only cools the cocktail, but also helps maintain the right texture and flavor. To decorate, an orange slice is traditionally used, which adds a light citrus note and makes the cocktail visually appealing.
Aperol Spritz Recipes
Classic Aperol Spritz
For the Aperol Spritz recipe classic you need to take 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol and 1 part soda water. Fill a glass with ice, pour the Prosecco, then add the Aperol and finish with the soda water. Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.
Hugo Spritz
Hugo Spritz is a popular cocktail that also originated in Italy. To make it, mix 4 parts Prosecco, 1 part St. Germain (elderflower liqueur) and 1 part soda water. Fill the glass with ice, add the ingredients and garnish with a lemon wheel and a sprig of mint.
Limoncello Spritz
Limoncello Spritz is a variation using Limoncello lemon liqueur. Mix 3 parts Prosecco, 1 part Limoncello and 1 part soda water. Fill glass with ice, garnish with a lemon wheel and a sprig of rosemary.
Sunset Spritz
Sunset Spritz offers an unusual combination of Campari and Lillet Blanc. For its preparation you need to take 2 parts Prosecco, 1 part Campari, 1 part Lillet Blanc and 1 part soda water. Fill a glass with ice, add all the ingredients and garnish with lemon and orange zest.
Aperol Spritz at RadioCafe.
At RadioCafe you can see such cocktails in Tbilisi.
Classic Aperol Spritz is a refreshing cocktail made with notes of fruit, light citrus bitterness and moderate carbonation. It includes the traditional combination of Aperol, Prosecco and soda water. The drink is served with an orange slice, which adds extra flavor and makes it a perfect choice for any time of year.
Aperol Spritz Berry Cocktail is an author's Aperol Spritz recipe with the addition of white rum, sparkling wine and a mix of five berries: blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, black and red currants. This cocktail features a rich berry flavor and bright color, making it the perfect choice for those who love experimentation and new taste sensations.
Campari Spritz is another variation that combines the rich and bitter notes of Campari with sparkling wine and soda water. This drink is perfect for those who prefer more bitter and intense flavors. Campari Spritz is also garnished with an orange slice, adding a slight sweetness and citrus flavors.