Refreshing Italian Aperitif Spritz

Vibrant orange Spritz cocktail garnished with fresh slice on ice.  Save Pin
Vibrant orange Spritz cocktail garnished with fresh slice on ice. | noshtheory.com

A classic Italian aperitif combining Prosecco, Aperol, and soda water, garnished with orange. Ideal for warm weather, offering a balance of bitter and sweet notes.

The sun was setting over the canal when I first realized how a simple orange drink could make an entire evening feel like a holiday.

I remember mixing these for a crowd of friends on a hot balcony, laughing as we tried to get the garnish just right.

Ingredients

  • Prosecco: This provides the bubbly foundation and fruity base.
  • Aperol: It brings that essential bright orange color and herbal sweetness.
  • Soda water: This adds the necessary fizz and lightness.
  • Ice cubes: Plenty of ice is crucial to keep the drink chilled and diluted perfectly.
  • Orange slice: The oils from the peel add a beautiful aromatic finish.
  • Green olive: This adds a savory touch if you want to be truly authentic.

Instructions

Prep the Glass:
Fill a large wine glass generously with ice cubes to ensure the drink stays frosty.
Add the Spirits:
Pour in the Prosecco followed by the Aperol.
Top with Soda:
Add the soda water to fill the glass.
Gentle Stir:
Stir gently to combine without losing the carbonation.
Finish and Serve:
Garnish with an orange slice and green olive before serving immediately.
Bubbly Spritz recipe served in wine glass with olive garnish.  Save Pin
Bubbly Spritz recipe served in wine glass with olive garnish. | noshtheory.com

There is something about the clinking ice and bright color that turns a regular Tuesday into a special occasion.

Choosing Your Bitter

Experiment with different amaro to find the bitterness level that suits your personal taste.

Glassware Choice

A large wine glass is traditional, but a balloon glass works just as well to hold the aromas.

Serving Suggestions

Keep snacks nearby to complement the bitter notes of the drink.

  • Salty potato chips are a classic pairing.
  • Marinated olives bring out the herbal flavors.
  • Simple bruschetta balances the sweetness.
Refreshing Italian Spritz aperitif with orange slice and sparkling ice cubes. Save Pin
Refreshing Italian Spritz aperitif with orange slice and sparkling ice cubes. | noshtheory.com

Cheers to good friends and long, warm evenings.

Recipe FAQs

A Spritz is a refreshing Italian aperitif made with Prosecco, a bitter liqueur like Aperol, and soda water, typically served over ice.

Yes, you can use Campari for a more bitter version or other bitter liqueurs to adjust the flavor profile.

The classic ratio is 3:2:1—Prosecco, Aperol, and soda water, respectively.

Fill a large wine glass with ice, add the ingredients in order, stir gently, and garnish with an orange slice.

Light appetizers like olives, chips, or bruschetta complement the flavors of a Spritz beautifully.

Refreshing Italian Aperitif Spritz

A refreshing Italian aperitif with Prosecco, Aperol, and soda water.

Prep 5m
0
Total 5m
Servings 1
Difficulty Easy

Ingredients

Spritz Base

  • 3 oz Prosecco
  • 2 oz Aperol
  • 1 oz soda water
  • Ice cubes

Garnish

  • 1 orange slice
  • 1 green olive (optional, Venetian style)

Instructions

1
Prepare the Glass: Fill a large wine glass generously with ice cubes.
2
Add Spirits and Soda: Pour in the Prosecco, followed by the Aperol, then top with soda water.
3
Gently Combine: Stir gently to combine—do not over-mix to maintain the carbonation.
4
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with an orange slice and, if desired, a green olive on a cocktail pick. Serve immediately while cold and sparkling.
Additional Information

Equipment Needed

  • Wine glass or large tumbler
  • Bar spoon

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories 180
Protein 0g
Carbs 15g
Fat 0g

Allergy Information

  • Contains sulfites (from Prosecco). Double-check all beverage components for possible allergens, especially pre-mixed Aperitifs.
Ivy Rosen

Passionate home cook sharing weeknight meals, kitchen hacks, and everyday cooking joy.