The Aperol Spritz’s origins can be traced back to the Veneto region of Italy, where the cocktail has become an integral part of the local drinking culture. Let’s take a stroll through the history of this iconic aperitif.
- The Birth of the Aperol Spritz:
- The Aperol Spritz owes its creation to the early 20th century in the charming city of Padua, Italy. The story goes that in 1919, the Barbieri brothers created Aperol, a bright orange-hued aperitif characterized by its bittersweet and citrusy flavor profile.
- It wasn’t until the 1950s and 1960s that the Aperol Spritz, as we know it today, gained popularity. Locals began to mix Aperol with sparkling wine and a splash of soda, creating a refreshing and sociable drink that perfectly complemented the relaxed Italian lifestyle.
- Global Rise in Popularity:
- The Aperol Spritz’s appeal extended beyond the borders of Italy in the 21st century. Its distinctive color, light bitterness, and bubbles captured the imagination of cocktail enthusiasts worldwide, making it a staple in bars, cafes, and summer gatherings.
- The cocktail’s popularity skyrocketed, and the Aperol Spritz became synonymous with warm, sun-drenched afternoons, enjoyed with friends against the backdrop of iconic Italian landscapes.
Aperol Spritz Ingredients
- Aperol: 60ml (2oz)
- Prosecco: 90ml (3oz)
- Soda Water: 30ml (1oz)
- Ice Cubes
- Orange Slice for garnish
Aperol Spritz Recipe
- Prepare Your Glass: Choose a wine or large balloon glass.
- Ice It: Fill the glass with ice to chill.
- Add Aperol: Pour 60ml (2oz) of Aperol over the ice.
- Pour in Prosecco: Add 90ml (3oz) of Prosecco.
- Splash of Soda: Add 30ml (1oz) of soda water.
- Stir Gently: Mix lightly with a bar spoon.
- Garnish: Decorate with an orange slice.
The Aperol Spritz – Effervescent Joy
The Aperol Spritz is not just a global favorite now; it has been a key part of Italian life for over 50 years. Luigi and Silvo Barbieri created Aperol, the main ingredient, in the early 1900s.
The recipe they made is still used and kept secret today. But it was only in the 1950s that people in Italy started drinking the spritz often, as a different choice from a white-wine spritz. It’s a great drink to have before dinner because it tastes good and isn’t too heavy. If you haven’t tried Aperol yet, now’s a great time to start.
Whether sipped on a sunny terrace overlooking the sea or shared among friends at a summer gathering, the Aperol Spritz embodies the spirit of la dolce vita.
Cheers to brunch classic and the bubbles of joy of one of the classic Aperol cocktails!
