Aperol Spritz
A bright, bittersweet Italian sparkling aperitif.
Drink details
Glass
Wine Glass
Ice
Cubed
Method
Built
Strength
Light
Servings
1
Carbonated
Yes
Recipe
Ingredients
Prosecco
90 ml
Aperol
60 ml
Soda Water
1 splash
Garnish
Orange Slice
1 piece
Rating
Rate this drink
Method
Preparation
- 1
Fill a wine glass with ice.
- 2
Add the Prosecco, Aperol and a splash of soda water.
- 3
Stir gently.
- 4
Garnish with an orange slice.
About the Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is a bright Italian aperitif combining Prosecco, Aperol and soda water. Its signature orange color and bittersweet flavor come from Aperol, while Prosecco adds dryness and lively carbonation. Soda water lengthens the drink and keeps it light. Served over plenty of ice with an orange garnish, the Aperol Spritz is refreshing, relatively low in alcohol and particularly well suited as a pre-dinner aperitif.
What does an Aperol Spritz taste like?
An Aperol Spritz tastes bittersweet, citrusy and sparkling. Aperol provides orange, herbal and gently bitter notes, while Prosecco adds crisp acidity and a lightly fruity character. Soda water keeps the drink refreshing and prevents the sweetness from becoming too heavy.
Tips for making an Aperol Spritz
Use well-chilled Prosecco and plenty of ice. Build the ingredients directly in the glass and stir only gently to preserve carbonation. Add the soda water as a splash rather than a large pour so the drink stays balanced and flavorful. Finish with a fresh orange slice to complement Aperol's citrus character.
Substitutions & Variations
No Prosecco?
Another dry Italian sparkling wine is the closest substitute. Look for a light, crisp style rather than something noticeably sweet. Cava or another dry sparkling wine can also work, although they will give the drink a somewhat different character. Champagne can be used, but its greater acidity and complexity can make the Spritz taste less like the classic version. For the traditional Aperol Spritz profile, Prosecco remains the preferred choice.
No Aperol?
Another Italian bitter aperitif can be used, but the flavor of the drink will change considerably. Select Aperitivo gives a more bitter and herbal Spritz, while Campari produces a noticeably stronger, more bitter result. Other orange-forward aperitifs may also work depending on their sweetness and bitterness. If you want the characteristic light, bittersweet orange flavor and color of an Aperol Spritz, Aperol is difficult to replace directly.
No soda water?
Club soda, seltzer, or plain sparkling mineral water can all be used. Club soda is a close substitute and may add a subtle mineral character, while seltzer is generally more neutral. Sparkling mineral water also works well, although strongly mineralized varieties can affect the flavor. Avoid tonic water, lemon-lime soda, and other sweetened carbonated drinks unless you intentionally want to make the Spritz sweeter or alter its bitter balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should Prosecco or Aperol go in first?
Add the Prosecco first, followed by the Aperol and then a splash of soda water. Adding the sparkling wine before the Aperol helps the ingredients combine naturally and reduces the amount of stirring needed, which helps preserve the carbonation.
Should I stir an Aperol Spritz?
Yes, but only gently. Give the drink a brief, gentle stir after adding the ingredients. Vigorous or prolonged stirring will cause the Prosecco and soda water to lose carbonation more quickly.
Why does my Aperol Spritz taste too bitter?
Aperol is a bitter aperitif, so a noticeable bittersweet character is intentional. If your Spritz tastes more bitter than expected, check that you are using the correct proportions of Prosecco and Aperol. A little additional soda water can also soften the bitterness without adding more sweetness.
Why does my Aperol Spritz taste flat?
The Prosecco or soda water may have lost some of its carbonation, or the drink may have been stirred too much. Use freshly opened, well-chilled Prosecco and soda water, add them carefully and stir only briefly. Serving the drink immediately also helps keep it lively and sparkling.
What type of Prosecco should I use for an Aperol Spritz?
A dry, crisp Prosecco works particularly well because it balances Aperol's bittersweet character without making the drink overly sweet. Prosecco DOC is perfectly suitable; there is no need to use an expensive bottle. Avoid noticeably sweet styles if you want to keep the Spritz light and refreshing.
