Wie Bereite Ich Aperol Spritz Zu

Ciao amici! Planning a trip to Italy, or just longing for that Italian summer feeling? Then you absolutely must master the art of making the perfect Aperol Spritz. This iconic Venetian cocktail is the embodiment of "la dolce vita" – a refreshing, vibrant, and undeniably stylish way to kick off an evening. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the history of the drink to crafting your own perfect Spritz, even if you're just setting up a makeshift bar in your hotel room.

What Is an Aperol Spritz, Exactly?

The Aperol Spritz is more than just a drink; it's a cultural phenomenon. It's synonymous with Italian aperitivo hour, that magical time in the late afternoon when Italians gather with friends, enjoy light bites, and sip on something refreshing before dinner. But what makes it so special?

Essentially, it's a simple yet elegant cocktail built on three key ingredients:

Aperol: This is the star of the show! Aperol is an Italian aperitivo, similar to Campari but less bitter. It boasts a vibrant orange color and a complex flavor profile with notes of orange, herbs, and a hint of rhubarb.
Prosecco: This Italian sparkling wine adds the fizz and celebratory touch. Opt for a dry or extra dry Prosecco (Brut or Extra Brut) to balance the sweetness of the Aperol.
Soda Water (or Sparkling Water): A splash of soda water lengthens the drink and adds a refreshing lightness.

The beauty of the Aperol Spritz lies in its simplicity and adaptability. While the traditional recipe is widely accepted, there's room for personal preference and experimentation.

A Brief History: From Select to Spritz

While Aperol is the defining ingredient today, the history of the Spritz is a bit more complex. The concept of adding water to wine dates back to ancient times, but the modern Spritz as we know it emerged in the Veneto region of Italy during the Austrian occupation in the 19th century.

Austrian soldiers, unaccustomed to the strong Venetian wines, began adding a splash of water ("spritzen" in German, meaning "to spray") to dilute them. Over time, this practice evolved, with sparkling wine and liqueurs like Select (another Venetian aperitivo, slightly more bitter than Aperol) being incorporated. Aperol wasn't invented until 1919, but it gradually gained popularity and ultimately became the dominant ingredient in the Spritz we enjoy today.

The Official Recipe (and How to Customize It)

The official International Bartenders Association (IBA) recipe for an Aperol Spritz follows the 3-2-1 ratio:

3 parts Prosecco
2 parts Aperol
1 part Soda Water

However, don't be afraid to adjust this to your taste! Here's a step-by-step guide to making your own perfect Aperol Spritz:

Gather your ingredients: You'll need Aperol, Prosecco (Brut or Extra Brut), Soda Water, ice cubes, and an orange slice for garnish.
Choose your glass: Traditionally, an Aperol Spritz is served in a large wine glass or a stemmed balloon glass. This allows the aromas to develop and the bubbles to dance.
Fill the glass with ice: Plenty of ice is key to keeping your Spritz cold and refreshing.
Add the Prosecco: Pour in 3 parts Prosecco.
Add the Aperol: Now, add 2 parts Aperol. You'll see that beautiful orange hue spreading through the Prosecco.
Add the Soda Water: Top it off with 1 part Soda Water.
Garnish: Gently stir the drink to combine the ingredients. Do not over stir!. Then, garnish with a fresh orange slice. Some people also like to add a green olive for a salty counterpoint to the sweetness.
Enjoy immediately! The Aperol Spritz is best enjoyed fresh and bubbly.

Tips for the Perfect Aperol Spritz:

Use quality ingredients: The better the Prosecco, the better the Spritz.
Keep your ingredients chilled: Especially the Prosecco and Aperol.
Adjust the sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a less sweet Spritz, use a drier Prosecco or add a little more soda water.
Experiment with garnishes: While an orange slice is traditional, you can also try olives, rosemary sprigs, or even a strawberry.

Where to Drink Aperol Spritz in Italy (and Beyond)

While you can find Aperol Spritzes all over the world, there's nothing quite like enjoying one in its homeland. Here are a few suggestions:

Venice: As the birthplace of the Spritz, Venice is the ultimate destination for Aperol Spritz enthusiasts. Head to a bacaro (a traditional Venetian wine bar) for a Spritz and cicchetti (Venetian tapas).
Padua: Just a short train ride from Venice, Padua offers a more relaxed atmosphere and equally delicious Spritzes.
Milan: The fashion capital of Italy also boasts a vibrant aperitivo scene. Many bars offer extensive aperitivo buffets with your drink.
Anywhere with a view: Let's be honest, an Aperol Spritz tastes even better with a stunning view. Find a rooftop bar overlooking the Amalfi Coast, a beachside cafe in Sicily, or a charming piazza in Tuscany.

Even if you're not in Italy, you can still recreate the Aperol Spritz experience at home. Find a sunny spot, invite some friends over, put on some Italian music, and enjoy!

Beyond the Classic: Aperol Spritz Variations

While the classic Aperol Spritz is a winner, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this beloved cocktail. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Hugo Spritz: This variation replaces Aperol with elderflower liqueur (St. Germain is a popular brand). It's lighter, floral, and equally refreshing.
Campari Spritz: For a more bitter and intense flavor, substitute Aperol with Campari.
Select Spritz: Go back to the original with Select, offering a complex and slightly bitter taste.
Limoncello Spritz: Swap Aperol for Limoncello for a bright citrusy twist.
Add fruit: Muddle some fresh berries or slices of citrus fruit into the glass before adding the other ingredients.
Spice it up: Infuse your Prosecco with herbs like rosemary or thyme for a more complex flavor profile.

Aperol Spritz Etiquette: Dos and Don'ts

While there aren't strict rules, here are a few guidelines to keep in mind when enjoying an Aperol Spritz:

Do enjoy it as an aperitivo, before dinner.
Do pair it with light snacks like olives, cheese, cured meats, or bruschetta.
Do share it with friends and family. It's a social drink!
Don't drink it too quickly. Savor the flavor and enjoy the moment.
Don't be afraid to ask for a refill.
Don't overthink it! The Aperol Spritz is all about simple pleasures and enjoying life.

The Aperol Spritz: More Than Just a Drink

The Aperol Spritz is more than just a cocktail; it's a symbol of Italian culture, a celebration of simple pleasures, and a reminder to slow down and enjoy the moment. Whether you're sipping it in a Venetian canal-side bar or mixing it up in your own kitchen, the Aperol Spritz is a perfect way to transport yourself to the sunny shores of Italy. So, grab your ingredients, gather your friends, and cin cin! – cheers!