Aperol Spritz: The Bright, Bitter Italian Aperitif Everyone Loves

When you think of a perfect summer drink, chances are you picture an Aperol Spritz, a light, fizzy Italian aperitif made with Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water, often served over ice with an orange slice. Also known as the Venetian spritz, it’s not just a cocktail—it’s a ritual. This drink doesn’t demand a sommelier’s palate or a fancy glass. It asks for a sunny spot, a friend, and a moment to slow down.

The Aperol Spritz belongs to a bigger tradition called aperitivo, the Italian pre-dinner drinking custom that blends socializing, light snacks, and low-alcohol drinks to open the appetite. It’s not about getting drunk. It’s about easing into the evening. Aperol, the star ingredient, is a bitter-sweet orange liqueur with just 11% alcohol—light enough to sip all afternoon. Paired with bubbly Prosecco and a splash of soda, it becomes refreshing, not heavy. You won’t find this drink in a smoky bar at midnight. You’ll find it on a terrace in Milan, a beachside table in Sicily, or even a backyard in London on a warm Saturday.

What makes the Aperol Spritz stand out isn’t just its color. It’s the balance. Too sweet? Too bitter? Too fizzy? The magic happens when all three parts—Aperol, Prosecco, and soda—hold their ground. It’s not complicated, but getting it right takes attention. The ice should be cold. The orange should be fresh. The Prosecco shouldn’t be flat. And the soda? Just enough to lift the flavor without drowning it. This drink doesn’t need fancy tricks. It needs honesty. That’s why it’s become a global favorite, even among people who don’t usually drink alcohol. It’s approachable. It’s cheerful. It doesn’t take itself seriously.

You’ll notice the posts below don’t all mention Aperol Spritz directly. But they all touch the same ground: how people drink, why they choose certain drinks, and what makes a drink feel right. Whether it’s the clean taste of vodka, the ritual of an Old Fashioned, or the rise of mocktails, these stories are about more than ingredients—they’re about moments. The Aperol Spritz isn’t just a drink on a menu. It’s a pause. A breath. A reason to sit still and enjoy the light. Below, you’ll find real experiences, honest tips, and surprising connections between this little orange cocktail and the wider world of drinks. You might just find your next favorite way to unwind.