About this recipe

The quintessential Italian aperitivo — bright, bittersweet, and endlessly refreshing. This classic Aperol Spritz follows the beloved 3-2-1 ratio (Prosecco, Aperol, soda water) for a perfectly balanced drink that's as easy to make for one as it is for a crowd. Light, fizzy, and gorgeous in the glass, it's the go-to warm-weather cocktail for a reason.

Instructions

1. 1

   Chill your wine glass (a large balloon glass or stemless wine glass works best) in the Ziploc bag (Pint size) for 5 minutes, or fill it with ice water and discard before building the drink. A cold glass keeps everything fizzier, longer.

2. 2

   Fill the chilled glass generously with large ice cubes. Bigger cubes melt slower and dilute less — avoid crushed ice.

3. 3

   Pour in the prosecco first. Starting with the wine helps preserve the bubbles better than adding it last.

4. 4

   Add the aperol by pouring it gently over the back of a wooden spoon held just above the surface, or simply pour it slowly down the side of the glass. This creates that beautiful layered sunset effect before stirring.

5. 5

   Top with the soda water. Give the drink one or two gentle stirs with a long wooden spoon — just enough to combine without killing the bubbles.

6. 6

   Garnish with a half-wheel slice of fresh orange perched on the rim. Add a green olive on a cocktail pick if you want the classic Italian bar touch. Serve immediately.