Italian Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz has become the undisputed king of the Italian aperitivo — that magical pre-dinner ritual where Italians gather at outdoor cafés to sip drinks and nibble snacks as the sun goes down. This gorgeous orange cocktail originated in Venice and the Veneto region, and its bitter-sweet, bubbly flavor profile is addictively refreshing. With just three ingredients and a 3-2-1 ratio that’s impossible to forget, the Aperol Spritz might be the easiest great cocktail you’ll ever make.

Ingredients

• 3 oz (6 tablespoons) Prosecco, chilled
• 2 oz (1/4 cup) Aperol
• 1 oz (2 tablespoons) soda water or sparkling mineral water
• Ice cubes
• Orange slice for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a large wine glass (ideally a stemmed balloon glass) with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the Prosecco first — this is the Italian way and helps preserve the bubbles.
3. Add the Aperol. It will cascade beautifully through the Prosecco, creating that signature sunset-orange color.
4. Top with a splash of soda water for a little extra fizz.
5. Give it one gentle stir to combine. Don’t over-stir — you want to keep those bubbles alive.
6. Garnish with a fresh orange slice. Some people add a green olive on a toothpick for an extra touch of Italian flair.

Pro Tips

• The 3-2-1 ratio (3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, 1 part soda) is the official IBA (International Bartenders Association) recipe. It’s easy to scale up for a pitcher at parties.
• Use a dry Prosecco — the Aperol already brings plenty of sweetness. An extra-dry or brut Prosecco gives the best balance.
• For a more bitter, sophisticated version, substitute Campari for Aperol. This variation is called a Campari Spritz and has a deeper red color and more intense flavor.

Serving Suggestions

The Aperol Spritz is best enjoyed the Italian way — as a pre-dinner aperitivo with small bites like olives, bruschetta, cheese, and cured meats. It’s a warm-weather drink meant for golden hour on a patio or piazza. Serve in a large wine glass to let the aromas bloom and the colors shine.

Prep Time: 2 minutes | Total Time: 2 minutes | Servings: 1

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