Spritz: The Original Recipe and 5 Variations to Try

Spread the love

The Spritz is one of the most beloved cocktails in Italy and around the world, a symbol of the Italian-style aperitivo. Originally from Veneto, it’s easy to prepare and refreshing, with the perfect balance of sweetness, bitterness, and bubbles. In this article, we’ll show you how to make the perfect Spritz and introduce some interesting variations to impress friends and family during aperitivo time.

The Original Aperol Spritz Recipe

This is the most well-known version, also codified by the Italian Bartenders Association.

Ingredients

3 parts Prosecco
2 parts Aperol
1 part soda water (or sparkling water)
Ice to taste
1 slice of orange for garnish

Preparation

Fill a large wine glass or a low tumbler with ice.
Pour in the Prosecco first, then the Aperol, and finally the soda water.
Stir gently with a long spoon or straw.
Garnish with a slice of orange.

Tip: pour the ingredients in this order to avoid the Aperol settling at the bottom and to get a more even mix.

Origins of the Spritz

The Spritz was born during the Austro-Hungarian Empire, when Austrian soldiers, finding Venetian wines too strong, would “spray” them with water (hence the name spritz, from the German spritzen, meaning to spray). The modern version with Aperol spread after World War II, becoming incredibly popular from the 2000s onward.

5 Variations to Try

1. Campari Spritz (more intense)

3 parts Prosecco
2 parts Campari
1 part soda water
Slice of orange or lemon peel

More bitter and bold, with a deeper red color. Perfect for those who enjoy stronger flavors.

2. Hugo Spritz (floral and delicate)

3 parts Prosecco
2 parts elderflower syrup
1 part soda water
Mint leaves and lime slices

Born in South Tyrol, it’s fresh, fragrant, and perfect for summer.

3. Cynar Spritz (herbal)

3 parts Prosecco
2 parts Cynar (artichoke liqueur)
1 part soda water
Slice of orange or cucumber

A more bitter alternative with an aromatic taste.

4. White Spritz (minimalist)

3 parts dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio)
2 parts soda water or tonic water
Ice and lemon peel

Light, sparkling, and perfect even with a light lunch.

5. Non-Alcoholic Spritz (for everyone)

3 parts blonde orange juice
2 parts non-alcoholic bitter
1 part sparkling or tonic water
Slice of orange or lime

Perfect for those who don’t want (or can’t) drink alcohol. Refreshing and visually identical to the original.

Extra Tips

Ice is not optional: it must be plenty and very cold.

Use a good DOC Prosecco: dry or extra dry, for a balanced taste.
Do not shake: the Spritz is built directly in the glass.
Try it with seltzer instead of soda water for a bubblier effect.