APEROL SPRITZ: The Classic Italian 3-2-1 Cocktail

APEROL SPRITZ: The Classic Italian 3-2-1 Cocktail

(A Refreshing Pre-Dinner Drink Ready in 3 Minutes)

KEY INFO:

• ⏱️ Prep Time: 2-3 minutes
• 🍳 Cook Time: None
• ⌛ Total Time: 2-3 minutes
• 🍽️ Servings: 1 cocktail
• 📊 Difficulty: Easy
• 🌱 Dietary: Alcohol, vegan-friendly

Equipment Needed:

• Large wine glass or balloon glass
• Jigger or measuring cup
• Stirring spoon

Alternative tools: Highball glass (if wine glass unavailable)

Ingredients:

• 3 oz (90ml) Prosecco D.O.C. (chilled)
• 2 oz (60ml) Aperol (chilled)
• 1 oz (30ml) Soda water
• Ice cubes
• 1 orange slice for garnish

Method:

1. Fill your wine glass completely with ice cubes.



2. Pour 2 oz Aperol over the ice.



3. Add 3 oz chilled Prosecco slowly down the side of the glass.



4. Top with 1 oz soda water.



5. Gently stir once to combine (do not over-stir).
6. Garnish with an orange slice.

Crucial Tips:

• Always use chilled Prosecco and Aperol.
• Maintain the 3-2-1 ratio (Prosecco-Aperol-Soda).
• Don’t over-stir – you’ll lose the bubbles.
• Use fresh ice cubes, not melting ones.

Storage & Serving:

• Serve immediately.
• Cannot be stored once mixed.
• Keep Prosecco and Aperol refrigerated.

Variations:

• Campari Spritz: Replace Aperol with Campari.
• Low-alcohol version: Use more soda water.
• Winter Spritz: Add a rosemary sprig garnish.

Common Mistakes:

• Using warm ingredients.
• Wrong proportions.
• Over-stirring.
• Using flat Prosecco.

Pro Tip: The perfect Aperol Spritz should be bright orange, bubbly, and served so cold that condensation forms on the outside of the glass. If you’re not getting that refreshing sparkle, check your Prosecco’s freshness and ice quality.

This cocktail is best enjoyed as a pre-dinner drink (aperitivo) on a warm evening, preferably on an Italian terrace – but your backyard will do just fine! Salute! 🍊