Mariella There are drinks that are not just a cocktail, but a state of mind. The Aperol Spritz, with its bright orange color and balanced taste between sweet and bitter, is one of them.
What is Aperol Spritz?
The Aperol Spritz is Italy’s most famous aperitif cocktail. It is known for its bright orange color, low alcohol content (11%), and unmistakable bittersweet taste. It is made by mixing Aperol liqueur with Prosecco wine and a splash of soda water.
Light, cheerful, and summery, it has become the undisputed symbol of the modern dolce vita, especially in Naples, where it is enjoyed facing the sea with the sun setting behind Mount Vesuvius.
But behind its apparent simplicity lies a fascinating history. If in [The History of Spritz and its Arrival in Naples’ Cafes] we told you about Austrian soldiers, today we will focus on the ingredient that changed everything: Aperol.
The Origin of Aperol: An Innovation from Northern Italy
Although today we associate it with the Mediterranean “dolce vita” and the southern coasts, Aperol was not born near the sea, but in the Veneto region, specifically in Padua.
Padua, 1919: The Year of Change
In 1919, during the Padua International Fair, the brothers Luigi and Silvio Barbieri, heirs to a small family distillery, presented an innovative liqueur: Aperol.
Its name was a tribute to the French word “apéro”, widely used to indicate aperitif time. The new liqueur was unlike anything that existed back then:
- A vibrant and magnetic orange color.
- Low alcohol content (only 11%).
- A bitter-sweet and citrus taste.
- Based on a secret recipe of herbs, roots, bitter orange, and rhubarb.
It wasn’t an immediate success, but an unstoppable journey began that would end up conquering the world.
The Spritz and Aperol: A Perfect Marriage
To understand the success of Aperol Spritz, we must remember that the concept of “spritz” (wine with sparkling water) had already existed since the Austrian occupation.
However, the magic happened between the 50s and 60s. People started replacing stronger bitter liqueurs with Aperol, which was lighter, more aromatic, and easier to drink. Thus, the modern mix was born: Aperol + Prosecco + Soda.
The Great International Success: From Veneto to the World
The real global boom wouldn’t arrive until decades later. In 2003, the Campari Group acquired the Aperol brand and launched a strategy that would change the Italian aperitif forever.
With colorful campaigns and giant glasses on terraces across Europe, Aperol Spritz went from being a regional secret to becoming the most popular cocktail in the world. Today it is drunk in London, New York, or Buenos Aires, but in Naples, it has a special charm.
Aperol Spritz in Naples: A Ritual with a View
In Naples, this drink is not just consumed: it is lived. Here it is part of the sunset, the lungomare terraces, and the laughter bouncing between tables. The orange color matches the evening sky, creating an almost poetic image.
As we recommend in our guide to favorite bars, here the cocktail never comes alone. It is usually served alongside:
- Neapolitan Taralli (savory donuts with pepper and almonds).
- Pizzette and Montanarine (mini fried pizzas).
- Cuoppi di frittura (cones of fried fish or vegetables).
- Fresh Buffalo Mozzarella.
Official Aperol Spritz Recipe: The 3-2-1 Ratio
The International Bartenders Association (IBA) has a golden rule to make the perfect cocktail—not too watery, not too strong. If you want to make it at home, you just need to remember these numbers: 3-2-1.
| Ingredient | Ratio (The 3-2-1 Rule) | Exact Measure (ml / oz) |
| Prosecco (or dry sparkling wine) | 3 parts | 90 ml (3 oz) |
| Aperol Liqueur | 2 parts | 60 ml (2 oz) |
| Soda water (or sparkling water) | 1 parts | 30 ml (1 oz) |
🧊 Essential Extras: A large wine glass (balloon glass) filled with large ice cubes, and a fresh orange slice for garnish.
How to make it step-by-step
(Incrusta aquí tu video corto de YouTube Shorts o TikTok si lo tienes).
Top with a splash of soda water, stir gently just once from the bottom up, and garnish with the orange slice.
Fill a large wine glass to the brim with ice.
Pour the Prosecco (always first so it doesn’t lose its fizz).
Add the Aperol in a circular motion.
Spritz Variations (Other Italian Versions)
While the classic Aperol Spritz is the undisputed king, in Italy—especially in the Campania region and the Amalfi Coast—we love to experiment while maintaining that Mediterranean lightness. If you like trying new things, ask for these variations:
- Campari Spritz: For more mature palates. You replace Aperol with Campari. It is deep red and much more bitter and dry.
- Limoncello Spritz: The favorite of Southern Italy. Sweeter and super refreshing, made with the famous lemon liqueur from Sorrento. (If you’re feeling adventurous, here is how to make your own [Authentic Homemade Limoncello Recipe]).
- Hugo Spritz: A very fresh and floral version originating from the north, made with elderflower syrup, Prosecco, and fresh mint leaves.
💡Tip from a Neapolitan: The Ultimate Pizza & Aperitivo Experience!
While in Naples, don’t just eat pizza—learn how to make it like a true pizzaiolo! This Authentic Pizza-Making Class is my absolute top recommendation (rated an incredible 4.9/5 stars by over 5,000 travelers).
What makes this specific class so special? It’s the only one that includes a delicious Neapolitan aperitivo (fresh bruschetta) to enjoy while your dough rests!
- 🍕 Hands-on: Make authentic Margherita from scratch with a local chef.
- 🍹 Included: A refreshing drink, the bruschetta aperitivo, and the pizza you make!
- 🎓 Souvenir: Take home your personalized Pizzaiolo Diploma.
- ✅ Stress-free: Free cancellation & Book now, pay later (starting at just €34).
Curiosities You Will Love
To finish, some facts so you can show off as an expert at your next gathering:
- The Aperol recipe remains completely secret, almost like Coca-Cola’s.
- In the 50s, it was advertised as a liqueur “for women and athletes” due to its low alcohol content, very typical marketing of the time.
- Its orange color is no coincidence; it comes from a natural blend that the brand keeps under lock and key.
The Aperol Spritz is proof that the best things are born from unexpected encounters: an Austro-Hungarian tradition, a liqueur from Padua, and the Italian joy of living.
Today it is a symbol of summer, friendship, and evenings that start soft and can end in adventure. And in Naples, it is the perfect companion to watch the sun reflect on the sea.
Let’s toast to that. Cin cin!
With love,
Your Neapolitan girl
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of Prosecco is best for Aperol Spritz?
It is best to use a Dry or Brut Prosecco (DOC). Since Aperol already contains sugar, using a “Demi-Sec” or overly sweet sparkling wine can make the cocktail cloying. A dry Prosecco provides the necessary acidity and crispness to balance the liqueur’s sweetness and herbal notes.
What does an Aperol Spritz taste like?
The flavor is bittersweet and refreshing. It combines the soft bitterness of orange, gentian, and rhubarb from the Aperol with the fruity notes of Prosecco, finished with a crisp, light bubble from the soda water.
What is the difference between Aperol and Campari?
Aperol is sweeter, bright orange, and has a lower alcohol content (11%). Campari is deep red, significantly more bitter, and stronger (around 24-28% ABV). Aperol is usually preferred by those new to Italian bitter liqueurs.
