Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz is Italy's most popular aperitivo cocktail and a symbol of relaxed European drinking culture. While spritz cocktails (prosecco with bitter liqueurs) existed in Venice since the 1800s, the Aperol Spritz in its current form became popular in the 1950s-1960s. This simple combination of Aperol, prosecco, and soda water creates a refreshing, low-alcohol drink perfect for warm weather and pre-dinner drinking. The standard ratio (3-2-1: prosecco-Aperol-soda) creates a balanced aperitif that's neither too sweet nor too bitter. Served over ice in a wine glass with an orange slice, the Aperol Spritz embodies Italian aperitivo culture—light drinking with snacks before dinner to stimulate appetite. The drink's bright orange color, effervescent character, and Instagram-worthy appearance contributed to its global explosion in the 2010s. Aperol's gentler bitterness (compared to Campari) makes the Spritz approachable for bitter-averse drinkers. The cocktail represents European café culture, social drinking, and the joy of simple pleasures. Whether enjoyed on a Venetian piazza or a Brooklyn rooftop, the Aperol Spritz transports drinkers to sunny Italian afternoons.