Aperol Spritz
Let’s start here. Aperitivo: translated from Italian as “appetizer,” drinks in this category are meant to stimulate your appetite. Traditionally enjoyed before the meal—or for me, while snacking on anything from a charcuterie and formaggi board to a margherita pizza to French fries—these drinks are relatively simple builds, light on the alcohol, and refreshing for the palette.
The recipe is simple: 3-2-1. Aperol, prosecco, soda. Do it in order, with this magic proportion, over rocks in a big balloon or wine glass and garnish with a juicy slice of orange. Give it a quick stir and sip with a straw.
They photograph well, too. Take a look above for some of the best spritzes in my camera roll.
And because this is such a simple cocktail, it’s the reason I’ve discovered so many other favorites with similar builds. Swap out an ingredient or two and all of a sudden you’ve got a Campari Spritz, a Negroni (Classico or Sbagliato—that’s a post for another day), or even an Americano.
Cin cin! (That’s Italian for “cheers!”)
Where’s your favorite spot to enjoy a spritz? Tag me on Instagram, @andrewjvagner.
“The recipe is simple: 3-2-1. Aperol, prosecco, soda...garnish with a juicy slice of orange.”
This spritz is made with Cappelletti, a rarer find, similar in flavor to Aperol and Campari, but the key difference is it’s base: white wine.