Introducing the Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz is an iconic Italian aperitif cocktail. This vibrant orange tipple finds its origins in Italy in the 1950s, when Venetians would enjoy a refreshing afternoon drink of soda and white wine, which is referred to as a ‘Spritz’. The term ‘spritz’ actually originates from Germany, and means ‘splash’ or ‘sparkling’. The original Spritz actually came from Austria but found its way into Venetian culture during the 1800s when Venice was held by the Austrian Empire.

Photo of aperol spritz made at Jimmys Bar and Lounge Port Macquarie

What’s in an Aperol Spritz?

The Aperol Spritz is made up of a mix of Aperol, Prosecco and a dash of soda water. Aperol is an Italian aperitif, made with bitter orange, rhubarb, cinchona, gentian and other secret ingredients. It is similar to Campari, but less bitter in taste and contains much less alcohol, making it the perfect addition to a light Summer’s cocktail. The Aperol Spritz was traditionally enjoyed by Venetians with some light snacks referred to as ‘cicchetti’, which were usually items such as olives, mini sandwiches and snack size tasters of local dishes. It’s light, thirst-quenching qualities make the Aperol Spritz the perfect Summer drink, but it’s actually great all year-round, enjoyed with seafood and light dishes such as tapas, antipasto plates and salads.

Photo of Jimmys Bar and Lounge team member showing Aperol a key ingredient of the Aperol Spritz

How to make an Aperol Spritz

So, we’ve convinced you that the Aperol Spritz is your new drink of choice, but how can you make your own at home?

Equipment

  • Champagne Flute
  • Cocktail shaker
  • Stirring implement

Ingredients

  • 20ml Aperol
  • Prosecco (or any sweet sparkling wine)
  • Orange Blossom Water
  • An orange twist, to garnish
  • Ice

Method

  1. Stir Aperol with ice in the tin base of the cocktail shaker
  2. Strain mixture into champagne flute
  3. Top with sparkling wine
  4. Lightly spray around top of glass with orange blossom water
  5. Garnish with the orange twist

Now watch our video to see how it’s done

Let us make you an Aperol Spritz

If you’d rather leave the cocktail making to the experts, come in to Jimmy’s Bar & Lounge and let one of our expert mixologists whip you up a delicious Aperol Spritz. Every bartender has their own version, and ours features a hint of orange blossom spray, a little touch that brings out the citrus flavours in the drink and gives it a beautiful Summery scent to finish.

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Photo of sangria and aperol spritz at Jimmy's Bar & Lounge