The Aperol Spritz came into my life during a phase where I was trying very hard to “drink like an adult,” whatever that means. I remember seeing photos online of people holding these bright orange drinks on sunny patios, looking relaxed and put-together. Meanwhile, I was at home in a T-shirt I’d slept in, wondering if it was acceptable to have a cocktail before dinner.

One afternoon, on a warm day that felt longer than it needed to be, I decided to try it. No special occasion. No guests. Just me, some ice, a bottle of Prosecco I’d been saving for no reason, and a lonely orange in the fruit bowl.

I poured it together without much thought. Took a sip. And immediately understood why people love it.

It wasn’t heavy. It wasn’t trying to knock me over. It felt refreshing, a little bitter, a little sweet, and oddly calming like a pause button in a glass. Now, the Aperol Spritz is what I make when I want the day to gently end instead of crashing into the evening.

Why I Cannot Stop Making It?

• Light and Easy: This drink doesn’t overwhelm you. It just shows up quietly and does its job.
• Perfect Bitter-Sweet Balance: The Aperol keeps it interesting without being too much.
• Feels Like a Treat: Even on a regular Tuesday, it feels special.
• No Complicated Measuring: Equal parts means less thinking, which I appreciate.
• Low-Pressure Drink: You can sip it slowly without worrying about it getting warm or harsh.
• Instant Mood Shift: One glass somehow makes the evening feel calmer.
• Looks Happy: That bright orange color does something good for the soul.

Tips You Must Know Before You Pour!

1. Fill the Glass with Ice: More ice keeps it cold and balanced, not watered down.
2. Eyeballing Is Allowed: This drink forgives imprecision better than most things in life.
3. Cold Prosecco Matters: Warm bubbles ruin the vibe fast.
4. Go Easy on Soda: It’s a splash, not a pour. Too much flattens the flavor.
5. Orange Slice Is Not Optional: That citrus aroma ties everything together.
6. Stir Gently: One soft stir is enough. Don’t beat it up.
7. Serve Immediately: This one’s best fresh and lively.

You Can Also Try These!

1. Mulled Wine 
2. French 75 Cocktail
3. Dirty Martini 
4. Chocolate Martini
5. Classic Mimosa

Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe

This classic Aperol Spritz blends bittersweet Aperol, bubbly Prosecco, and sparkling water into a light, refreshing cocktail perfect for sunny afternoons and easy evenings.

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Prep Time 3 minutes mins

Total Time 3 minutes mins

Servings: 3

Course: beverage

Cuisine: American

Calories: 165

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• Ice
• 3 ounces 1 part Aperol
• 3 ounces 1 part dry Prosecco
• 1 ounce a splash club soda or unflavored sparkling water
• Orange slice for garnish

Equipment

• Large wine glass
• Jigger or measuring cup (optional)
• Bar spoon (optional)

Method

 

1. Fill a large wine glass almost all the way with ice.
2. Pour in the Aperol—about 3 ounces, or roughly one-third of the glass if you’re eyeballing it.
3. Add an equal amount of chilled Prosecco, then top it off with a splash of club soda or sparkling water.
4. Give it a gentle stir, drop in an orange slice, and enjoy immediately.

Variations You Will Enjoy Trying!

1. Heavier on Prosecco: If you want it lighter and less bitter.
2. More Aperol Forward: Add a little extra if you like that bold orange bite.
3. Sparkling Water Swap: Works great if you don’t have club soda.
4. Blood Orange Garnish: Adds a deeper citrus note.
5. Large Ice Cubes: Melt more slowly and look nice in the glass.
6. Alcohol-Lite Version: Reduce Aperol slightly and add more soda.

Storage and Leftover Tips!

• No Storing Mixed Drinks: This one is meant to be made fresh.
• Keep Aperol Refrigerated: Cold Aperol means less ice melting.
• Seal Prosecco Tightly: Use a stopper to keep bubbles alive.
• Slice Oranges as Needed: Fresh slices always taste better than old ones.

How I Like to Serve This Drink?

• With salty snacks like chips or olives
• Before dinner as a gentle appetite opener
• On warm evenings when the windows are open
• In a big wine glass, no fancy barware needed
• With nowhere to be and no rush at all

FAQs

1. Is an Aperol Spritz strong?
   No, it’s pretty light and easygoing.
2. Can I make it sweeter?
   Yes, add a bit more Prosecco and less soda.
3. What if I don’t like bitter drinks?
   You might still like this. It’s mild and balanced.
4. Do I need Prosecco specifically?
   Dry sparkling wine works just fine.
5. Can I batch these for a party?
   I wouldn’t. They’re better made glass by glass.
6. Is club soda required?
   No, sparkling water works the same.
7. Does glass size matter?
   A larger glass gives the ice and bubbles room to breathe.

The Last Sip

The Aperol Spritz isn’t here to impress anyone. It’s here to help you slow down, enjoy the moment, and ease into the evening without a fuss. If your day felt a little heavy, this drink knows how to lighten it. Sometimes, that’s all you really need.