Aperol Spritz – have it your way.

Aperol has had a massive resurgence in the last few years. The bright orange Italian aperitif is loved by drinkers of all ages, and during a hot spell you can’t visit a pub garden without spotting someone sipping on an Aperol Spritz. In fact, it’s become as synonymous with summer as good old British Pimms.

One of the enduring reasons for the popularity of the Aperol Spritz, apart from the refreshing, undoubtedly summery taste? It’s quick and oh-so-simple to create. In fact, if you can count backwards from 3 then you’re halfway to being an expert.

Aperol Spritz at Home

First grab your vessel – a balloon glass or large tumbler is perfect. Pop in some ice and a slice of orange, and let the countdown begin.

 

3. Always put Prosecco in first – three parts, Prosecco, that is. Otherwise you’re going to be frothing all over the place. We love the fizzy effervescence of Scavi & Ray, a premium Prosecco for the stylish set.

 

2. 2. Now it’s time for the Aperol. Make sure you add two parts Aperol, and watch your drink turn the colour of a Venetian sunset.

 

1. Nearly there – just lengthen the cocktail with one part soda water. Naturally, the booze free element is the lowest portion…

 

And drink! In fact, now autumn is here, there’s even more reason to crack out the Aperol and remind ourselves of more carefree times. This cocktail is ideal as a welcome drink to a party; makes the perfect pre-dinner tipple; or is delicious served alongside fresh pasta dishes.

Other ways to enjoy Apreol Spritz:

Aperol Spritz with Food

Aperol was produced in Padua, Italy in 1919, so it figures that it’s fabulous with Italian cuisine. The fact the alcohol content is 11% makes it an-easy drinking tipple, and won’t have you sliding off your chair when you leave the restaurant. So when we heard our favourite dining destination Randall and Aubin in Soho were serving it with a special dish of Crab Capellini during their Crabstock Festival this summer then we were all over it. Apparently celebrity chef Ed Baines came up with the pairing after quaffing Aperol Spritz cocktails while on holiday in Venice with Aldo Zilli. It’s a tough life…

Aperol Spritz on Holiday

We’ve been taking a tour of the Far East here at Social and Cocktail (more blogs to come!) and part of our research was trying out cocktails at some of the best bars in Singapore. We visited a lovely little place called Cocotte, part of the Wanderlust hotel, and were thrilled to see an Aperol Spritz in the menu! Arriving in a rocks glass with a couple of olives (exotic!), it seems Aperol Spritz is loved the world over – and for good reason!

But you don’t need to head half way around the world to get your Aperol Spritz fix – not now you know the technique of 3,2,1. Grab yourself some Aperol, Prosecco, soda, orange and ice, and let the good times roll!

Check out the Aperol Spritz website here or follow them on Twitter @AperolSpritzUK