Aperol Spritz

A proper Aperol Spritz is cold, dry and lively

An Aperol Spritz should not taste like a glass of melted orange candy. The best version is brisk and sparkling, with enough prosecco to lift Aperol’s bittersweet orange flavour and just enough soda to lengthen the drink. It is an easy aperitivo, but temperature and order matter.

The familiar 3-2-1 formula means three parts prosecco, two parts Aperol and one part soda water. For one generous glass, that is 90 ml prosecco, 60 ml Aperol and 30 ml soda. You can scale the drink up without changing the balance.

Which prosecco works best?

Choose a chilled Brut or Extra Dry prosecco with clean acidity. Despite the label, Extra Dry is slightly sweeter than Brut; use Brut if you want a sharper, less sweet spritz. There is no need to open an expensive vintage bottle, but avoid a prosecco that tastes soft or noticeably sugary on its own.

Pour the prosecco before the Aperol. This reduces the amount of stirring needed and helps preserve the bubbles. Add the soda last, then move the spoon gently from the bottom to the top once.

Can you use champagne instead of prosecco?

Yes, although the drink changes. A Brut champagne makes a drier, more yeasty spritz with finer bubbles. It can be delicious, but prosecco’s fresh fruit character is closer to the classic Italian serve. Dry cava is another good substitute.

Four details that prevent a disappointing spritz

• Fill the glass with ice rather than adding a few cubes. More ice keeps the drink colder and melts more slowly.
• Chill every liquid before pouring. Ice should cool the drink, not rescue warm prosecco.
• Use plain, freshly opened soda water. Flavoured sparkling water changes the finish.
• Cut the orange just before serving. A fresh slice gives aroma without adding unwanted sweetness.

For something lighter and floral, try the Hugo Spritz. If you want more bitterness and depth, the Negroni Sbagliato keeps the bubbles but moves closer to a Negroni.

Aperol Spritz FAQ

What is the exact Aperol Spritz ratio?

Use three parts prosecco, two parts Aperol and one part soda water. A single serve is 90 ml, 60 ml and 30 ml respectively.

Is Aperol Spritz made with prosecco or champagne?

Prosecco is the traditional choice. Champagne works, but produces a drier, more complex and more expensive drink.

Should an Aperol Spritz be stirred?

Stir it once, gently. Vigorous stirring knocks out carbonation and dilutes the drink faster.

What glass should I use?

A large wine glass is ideal because it holds plenty of ice and leaves room for the orange garnish.

Why does my Aperol Spritz taste too sweet?

Use Brut prosecco, keep the full measure of soda, and avoid reducing the ice. Do not add simple syrup.