Aperol Spritz - Multiple Variations
By Culiora
An Italian aperitivo built in a large glass over plenty of ice: prosecco, Aperol and a splash of soda water, garnished with an orange slice and zest.
- Servings: 1
- Prep time: 5 min
- Total time: 5 min
Ingredients
- 6 cl Aperol
- 9 cl prosecco (preferably a dry, high-quality variety)
- 3 cl club soda
- ice (large cubes)
- orange slice
- orange zest (for extra aroma)
Instructions
- Fill a large wine glass (copa glass) with plenty of ice.
- Start with the prosecco – this preserves the bubbles better.
- Gently add the Aperol.
- Top with club soda.
- Stir very gently, just one turn, to retain the fizz.
- Garnish with an orange slice and express a strip of orange zest over the top for extra aroma.
- Serve immediately while the drink is cold and refreshing.
- Tip: A dry cava provides better balance, though it is less "Italian". Try also swapping out part of the Aperol for another aperitivo for deeper flavour; orange zest lifts the aroma much more than a slice alone.
- For a true bar-style twist, add a few dashes of orange bitters or a small splash of citrus-flavoured club soda.
- Variations can also include: Campari Spritz (more mature & bitter). Swap Aperol for Campari, but use slightly less (e.g. 5 cl instead of 6).
- Limoncello Spritz. Swap Aperol for Limoncello. Add a splash of lemon juice to cut the sweetness. Garnish with fresh mint.
- Select Spritz (classic Italian bar style). This is what many bars in Venice pour; this spritz is more balanced than Aperol. Swap Aperol for Select Aperitivo. Often garnished with a green olive instead of an orange slice for a more “authentic Italian” touch.
- Cynar Spritz (unique & trendy). Herbaceous, slightly bitter, and complex. Swap Aperol for Cynar (an artichoke-based liqueur). This spritz works surprisingly well with orange—more “cocktail bar” than “beach club”.
- Peach / Bellini Spritz (soft & elegant). Perfect for brunch or a lighter style. Swap Aperol for peach liqueur or peach purée. Use fresh peach if available, and reduce the soda for more body.
- Blood Orange Spritz (premium feel). Swap Aperol for blood orange liqueur or blood orange juice + bitters.