Aperol Spritz

by | Aug 18, 2025 | Classic Cocktails, Cocktail Recipes, Seasonal Cocktails

Aperol Spritz cocktail served in a wine glass with ice cubes, orange slice, and lime garnish on a marble bar top with warm summer party lights in the background

Aperol Spritz is the ultimate brunch-and-patio cocktail—bright, bubbly, bittersweet. We build it with the classic 3–2–1 ratio: 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, 1 part soda water, over lots of ice with an orange slice.

About This Aperol Spritz

Born in northern Italy and now a global icon, the Spritz blends sparkling wine with a low-ABV bitter apéritif and a splash of soda. We pour these often for daytime events on Long Island—guests love the color and the easy sipping. The secret to keeping it lively? Build in the glass and add the soda last.

Pro link: Throwing a party? Use our Alcohol Calculator to estimate bottles of Prosecco and Aperol by guest count.

Ingredients

  • 3 oz Prosecco (well-chilled)
  • 2 oz Aperol
  • 1 oz soda water (club soda), chilled
  • Ice
  • Garnish: orange slice

Steps

  1. Fill glass with ice. Use a large wine or balloon glass.
  2. Pour Prosecco (3). Start with bubbles to reduce foaming.
  3. Add Aperol (2). Let it drift through for that sunset hue.
  4. Top with soda (1). A quick splash to lift the aromatics.
  5. Stir gently & garnish. One slow stir; add an orange slice.

Bar Tips

  • Never shake a spritz—stir to preserve bubbles.
  • Use plenty of fresh, hard ice so it stays cold without going flat.
  • Prefer drier? Add a touch more soda or use an extra-brut Prosecco.

Flavor Notes

  • Aperol brings bittersweet orange with hints of rhubarb and gentian.
  • Swap Aperol for Campari for a bolder, more bitter spritz.

Party Batch (8 drinks)

  • 3 cups (24 oz) Prosecco
  • 2 cups (16 oz) Aperol
  • 1 cup (8 oz) soda water (add at pour)

Pre-chill Prosecco + Aperol in a pitcher (no ice). To serve, fill glasses with ice, pour 5–6 oz of the mix, then top each glass with a splash of soda and garnish.

When to Serve

Perfect for brunches, showers, garden parties, and any summer event where you want low-ABV refreshment that looks gorgeous in photos.

See our Summer roundup: Summer Cocktail Recipes.

Browse All Cocktails: Cocktail Recipes.

What are the ingredients in an Aperol Spritz?

Prosecco, Aperol, and soda water, built over ice in a large wine glass and garnished with an orange slice. The classic ratio is 3–2–1.

What is the 3–2–1 Aperol method?

Three parts Prosecco, two parts Aperol, one part soda water. Add Prosecco first, Aperol second, and top with soda for the best bubbles.

Is Aperol Spritz very alcoholic?

It’s relatively low-ABV (about 8–10% depending on pour and soda). That’s why it’s a favorite for daytime and brunch.

What kind of alcohol is Aperol?

Aperol is an Italian apéritif (amaro) at 11% ABV with bittersweet orange, rhubarb, and herbal notes.

Can I use Champagne instead of Prosecco?

Yes, Champagne makes it drier and pricier. Prosecco is traditional and keeps the fruity, easygoing profile