The Aperol Spritz has become synonymous with summertime drinking in Italy. From the seaside bars of Rimini to the piazzas of Florence, you’ll find crowds of people sipping the bubbly, bittersweet cocktail as an aperitif. But why has this drink become so popular, and how did it spread so widely across Italy?
The History of Aperol and the Spritz
To understand the Aperol Spritz, you first need to understand the history of Aperol. This bright orange aperitif was invented in Padua, Italy in 1919. The secret recipe contains rhubarb, cinchona, gentian and other herbs and roots infused in alcohol and water. The resulting flavor is bittersweet and low in alcohol (only 11% ABV).
The name “Aperol” comes from the French word “apéro” meaning appetizer or aperitif. The Spritz part of the name comes from the German word “spritzen” meaning to spray or splash. So an Aperol Spritz is literally a wine spritzer made with Aperol.
This type of wine spritzer was popular in northern Italy in the 19th century, where the Austro-Hungarian influence inspired lighter, bubbly aperitifs. Adding Aperol gave the wine spritz more flavor and color. By the 1950s, this combination of Aperol and prosecco was known simply as the “Spritz.”
The Rise of the Aperol Spritz
The modern Aperol Spritz was born in the 1980s when the Aperol brand launched a marketing campaign promoting the drink throughout Italy. Their slogan “It’s summertime, it’s Aperol Spritz time” captured the imagination of Italians looking for a perfect summer refreshment.
Bars across Italy embraced the drink, which was ideal for patio sipping in the warm weather. Its low alcohol content meant it could be enjoyed for hours into the evening without overpowering intoxication. Plus, the prosecco gave it a festive bubble that signaled vacation and relaxation.
By the 1990s, the Aperol Spritz had become a sensation across Italy. Even children would enjoy “sprezzaturas” or virgin Spritzes made with soda instead of prosecco. It was the drink of summer from Umbria to Sicily.
Why Italians Love Aperol Spritz
There are several key reasons why the Aperol Spritz resonated so strongly with the Italian public:
The Taste
Italians appreciated the complex bittersweet taste of Aperol combined with dry, bubbly prosecco. The dash of soda water provides lift and dilution. It’s a perfect palate cleanser before dinner.
The Color
The vibrant burnt orange hue is undeniably cheerful and summery. The color even matches the Italian sunset, making it a perfect sundowner cocktail.
The Experience
Sipping a cold Aperol Spritz with friends or family is part of la dolce vita, the sweet Italian lifestyle. It evokes a relaxing state of mind.
The Weather
The effervescent, low-alcohol cocktail provides thirst-quenching refreshment on hot summer days. Italians have fully embraced it as the drink of the season.
The Versatility
It’s acceptable to enjoy Aperol Spritzes at all times of day, from lunch to evening festivities. The drink works in many scenarios.
The Italian Flair
Italians take pride in their status as epicures. The Aperol Spritz recipes captures their appreciation for aperitifs with flavor, fizz and character.
How to Make the Perfect Aperol Spritz
While seemingly simple, there is some finesse required to make an authentic Aperol Spritz properly. Here are some tips:
Ingredients
- 3 parts prosecco
- 2 parts Aperol
- 1 part soda water
- Orange slice for garnish
Method
- Fill a wine glass or highball glass with ice
- Pour in the prosecco
- Add the Aperol using a gentle pouring technique to allow it to float on the top
- Top with soda water
- Garnish with orange slice
- Enjoy immediately
Tips
- Use good quality prosecco – an extra dry style works best
- Adjust ratios to taste – some prefer more or less Aperol
- Don’t let the drink sit too long or it will lose its effervescence
- Serve in a chilled glass for optimal temperature
- Garnish with a fresh orange slice, not dried peel
Now you can make the quintessential Italian summer cocktail like a native!
Where to Enjoy Aperol Spritz in Italy
The Aperol Spritz is ubiquitous across Italy in the summer months. Every restaurant, bar and cafe will have it on their menu. But here are some particularly scenic or famous places to sip the drink:
Piazza San Marco, Venice
Grab a table at one of the elegant cafes overlooking this famous plaza in Venice. Soak in the atmosphere of the Byzantine basilica and Doge’s Palace while you sip.
Navigli District, Milan
Milan’s trendy canals are lined with chic bars and nightspots. Watch the hip young Milanese scene while enjoying Aperol Spritzes along the cobblestone lanes.
Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence
This panoramic terrace has the best views of Florence and the Arno valley. The postcard-worthy vista pairs perfectly with the orange hues of an Aperol Spritz at sunset.
Costa Smeralda, Sardinia
Sardinia’s ritzy coastal resorts such as Porto Cervo will be filled with yachts and the wealthy drinking Aperol Spritz. Live the high life with them.
Caffe Florian, Piazza San Marco, Venice
Situated right in the piazza, this elegant cafe dates back to 1720. Sip your Aperol Spritz with a small orchestra providing a soundtrack on the outdoor terrace.
There are so many incredible locations to enjoy an Aperol Spritz throughout Italy. Just be sure to say “cin cin” for a little toast before sipping.
Pairing Aperol Spritz with Food
In addition to being a phenomenal aperitif, the Aperol Spritz pairs well with a variety of Italian food:
Seafood
The bitterness of Aperol balances oily fish like tuna, salmon and swordfish beautifully. It also complements shellfish and crustaceans.
Cheese
The slight bitterness cuts through fatty cheeses like burrata, ricotta and buffalo mozzarella. It also contrasts nicely with salty pecorino.
Cured Meats
Salumi like prosciutto, soppressata and speck pair perfectly with the herbal notes of an Aperol Spritz. The bubbles cut through the richness.
Vegetable Dishes
From eggplant parmigiana to roasted peppers, bitter greens and tomato salads, the drink provides an herbal foil to veggie-focused plates.
Pizza
The ultimate Italian food deserves an accompaniment like the Aperol Spritz. The bubbles and bitter notes cut through the cheese, bread and oil.
The drink is so versatile with Italian cuisine, feel confident ordering it with a wide variety of dishes. It’s a sure pairing!
The Global Rise of the Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz has spread beyond Italy to become a globally recognized cocktail. Aperol is now sold in over 150 countries worldwide. Some factors of its international success include:
Travel
As tourism to Italy increased, visiting travelers discovered the Aperol Spritz and then demanded it at home. It rode a wave of Italy being one of the world’s top travel destinations.
Italian Restaurants Abroad
Italian restaurants around the world added Aperol and the Spritz to their menus to provide authentic flavor. This expanded its visibility and popularity.
Aperol Marketing
The Aperol company ran advertising and social media campaigns to boost its brand recognition. They promoted an “Aperol-style” lifestyle.
Rise of Aperitifs
As pre-dinner cocktails became trendier worldwide, products like Aperol grew in prominence. The Spritz provided an accessible introduction to the category.
Low Alcohol Movement
Younger generations favor lower alcohol drinks. With only 11% ABV, the Spritz aligned well with shifting preferences.
Thanks to these factors, the iconic Italian drink extended its reach well beyond the canals of Venice and the beaches of Rimini. It became a global phenomenon.
Aperol Spritz Culture and Customs
As the Aperol Spritz spread internationally, certain cultural customs and rituals developed around the drink. These reflect its role in social life:
Glassware
Wide wine glasses or goblets are preferred over tall highball glasses. This allows for appreciation of the drink’s orange color. Name-branded Aperol Spritz glasses are popular collectors’ items.
Garnishes
Orange slices or olives are the classic garnishes. More elaborate versions could include orange wedges or peels. The orange color coordinates with the drink itself.
Occasions
While enjoyed year-round, it is quintessentially a warm weather drink. Patios, rooftops, picnic tables, front stoops – its natural habitat is outdoors in the sun.
Timing
Early evenings are when the Spritz comes alive. The post-work, pre-dinner hours are when locals unite to unwind over a few casual beverages.
Vibe
The mood evoked by the drink is relaxed, convivial and celebratory. It puts people at ease and catalyzes social interaction. Sipping a Spritz is an affordable pleasure.
Group Consumption
This is a highly social beverage, meant for sharing. In Italy, gathering together for an Aperol Spritz ritual is called “fare spritz” or “doing the spritz.”
The customs surrounding this fizzy, aromatic cocktail demonstrate its larger cultural influence as a beloved social institution.
Cocktails Similar to the Aperol Spritz
As the Aperol Spritz grew famous, variations on the formula began emerging. While true Aperol purists insist on the original recipe, here are some popular cocktails inspired by or riffing on the Spritz template:
Hugo Spritz
Substitutes elderflower liqueur St. Germain for Aperol, with prosecco and soda water. This is lighter and fruitier.
Cynar Spritz
Uses the bitter Italian digestif liqueur Cynar instead of Aperol for a more robust, herbaceous flavor.
Limoncello Spritz
Replaces Aperol with lemony limoncello for a fresher, citrusy twist.
Americano Spritz
Uses Campari instead of Aperol for a more potent bitterness, along with vermouth and soda water.
Select Spritz
The amaro Select makes a smooth, bittersweet substitute for Aperol with notes of orange and saffron.
The basic template of the Aperol Spritz – bitter liqueur + bubbles + dilution – makes for an endlessly riffable cocktail. These variations keep the formula fresh and interesting.
Frequently Asked Questions about Aperol Spritz
Is Aperol alcoholic?
Yes, Aperol is an alcoholic liqueur with an ABV of 11%. So the Aperol Spritz cocktail contains alcohol from both the Aperol and the prosecco.
Should an Aperol Spritz be served cold?
Ideally, yes. Serving the drink chilled allows the prosecco to be nicely effervescent and refreshing. Add plenty of ice cubes to the glass before building the drink.
What prosecco should I use in an Aperol Spritz?
Look for a drier prosecco labeled “extra dry” or “brut.” The crisp acidity works best as a foil to the richer Aperol. Avoid sweeter proseccos labeled “demi-sec.”
What can I use instead of Aperol?
Campari is the most common Aperol substitute, followed by Select aperitif, Cynar, or other orangey amari. You can also use citrus liqueurs like limoncello for a different flavor profile.
Why does Aperol Spritz turn orange?
The burnt orange color comes from the natural hue of Aperol itself. The gentian, rhubarb and other ingredients in Aperol give it a sunset orange tint that is then imparted to the full Aperol Spritz cocktail.
Is Aperol Spritz a romantic drink?
With its elegant appearance and history as a social ritual in Italy, the Aperol Spritz carries associations of la dolce vita romance and pleasure. Sharing a glass at a cafe with a date can feel intimate.
The Aperol Spritz clearly has a hold on the imagination of drinkers worldwide. Understanding its origins, rituals and proper preparation helps appreciate why Italians have embraced this effervescent concoction as a fundamental part of their culture. Salute!