Italy is a country known for its exquisite cuisine, rich history, and stunning beauty. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sparkling waters of the Amalfi Coast, Italy has something to offer everyone.
But perhaps one of the most famous exports from this beautiful country is its culture of aperitivo.
Aperitivo is the Italian tradition of enjoying a pre-dinner drink and snack with friends and family.
It’s a time to unwind, relax, and socialize before sitting down to a delicious meal. And no aperitivo is complete without the iconic Italian Spritz cocktail.
The Italian Spritz cocktail is a refreshing and elegant drink that has become a staple of Italian culture.
It’s made with a combination of sparkling wine, soda water, and bitter liqueurs such as Aperol or Campari. The result is a light and bubbly drink that’s perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening.
But with so many variations of the Italian Spritz cocktail out there, it can be hard to know which ones are the best. That’s why we’ve decided to put together a list of the top Italian Spritz cocktail recipes for you to try.
From classic recipes to modern twists, we’ve got you covered. So grab a seat, pour yourself a drink, and let’s dive into the world of Italian Spritz cocktails.
1. Classic Aperol Spritz
The Classic Aperol Spritz is a refreshing, low-alcohol cocktail that's perfect for happy hour. It's a part of the Spritz family of drinks, which are made by combining wine, club soda or sparkling water, and a bitter liquor known as Amari.
The Aperol Spritz is one of the most popular variations of the cocktail, with a slight bitterness and a hint of rhubarb and citrus flavor. Garnished with a slice of lemon or orange, it's a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a taste of Italy.
2. Hugo Spritz Cocktail
The Hugo Spritz Cocktail is a refreshing and light summer drink that is sure to delight. This cocktail originated in the Tyrol region of Italy and was created as an alternative to the popular Aperol spritz. The classic 3:2:1 spritz ratio is followed, with Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, and soda water being the main ingredients.
The combination of elderflower and Prosecco, lightened with a splash of soda water, creates a floral and bubbly drink that is perfect for a summer afternoon. The Hugo Spritz Cocktail is a great option for those who want to try something new and unique.
3. Pink Lemonade Italian Spritz Cocktail
The Pink Lemonade Italian Spritz Cocktail is a refreshing and bubbly drink made with just three ingredients. It's a twist on the classic Italian Spritz recipe, using pink lemonade instead of Aperol.
The base of the cocktail is Riondo Prosecco, a white sparkling wine from Italy with fruity undertones and a crisp finish. This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot day and celebrating the easy-living spirit of Italy.
4. Aperol Spritz Cocktail
The Aperol Spritz Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make Italian cocktail that has become a summer favorite for many. Made with just three simple ingredients – Aperol, sparkling wine, and a splash of sparkling water or club soda – this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
It's no wonder that it has become a go-to favorite for many people who have visited Italy. The classic orange slice garnish adds a pop of color and flavor to this already delicious cocktail. If you're looking for a simple and delicious cocktail to enjoy this summer, the Aperol Spritz Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
5. The Spritz Cocktail
The Spritz Cocktail is a classic Italian aperitif that has gained worldwide popularity in recent years. It is a refreshing and light drink that is perfect for sipping during a warm summer evening.
The cocktail is made with Prosecco, Aperol or Campari, and club soda. It is then topped with a slice of orange and sometimes garnished with a green olive. The Spritz Cocktail has a unique balance of sweet and bitter flavors that is well worth trying.
6. Limoncello Spritz
The Limoncello Spritz is a refreshing Italian cocktail made with limoncello, prosecco, and club soda. The bright lemon flavor of the limoncello adds a citrusy twist to the classic Aperol spritz.
It's easy to make with only three ingredients and perfect for warm weather. This bubbly drink is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and boozy drink to cool down with this summer.
7. Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is a refreshing and crisp Italian cocktail that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Originating in Venice, the drink is made with Prosecco, soda water, and Aperol, an Italian bitter liquor.
It is typically garnished with a slice of orange or lemon. While some may find the drink too sweet, it is perfect for a hot day and pairs well with a variety of foods. Overall, the Aperol Spritz is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the world of Italian spritz cocktails.
8. Select Spritz
The Select Spritz is a delightful Italian cocktail that is perfect for happy hour or a relaxing evening with friends. This spicier and more aromatic version of the classic Aperol Spritz is made with Select Aperitivo, an intense red-colored liquor created by the Pilla Brothers in Venice, Italy, in 1920.
The drink is a complex blend of flavors that is not overpowering, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a slightly bitter yet sensationally sweet taste. The cocktail is made with a 3:2:1 ratio of Select, Prosecco, and soda water, and is garnished with a green olive. If you're a fan of Italian aperitivos, you'll definitely want to give the Select Spritz a try.
9. Amaro Spritz
Looking for a refreshing and bubbly cocktail that's perfect for summer occasions? Look no further than the Amaro Spritz! This Italian aperitif is a cousin of the popular Aperol Spritz, but instead of Aperol, it uses any type of amaro to create a unique and complex flavor. For this recipe, the Meletti amaro is recommended for its rich and caramely taste, which almost resembles cola.
The classic spritz ratio of 3-2-1 is used to create the perfect balance of flavors. To take this cocktail to the next level, try making clear ice for a truly impressive presentation. The Amaro Spritz is perfect for sipping at any summer occasion, and is just one of many great bubbly cocktails to add to your repertoire.
10. Campari Spritz
The Campari Spritz is a refreshing and bubbly cocktail that is perfect for summer occasions. It is a bitter-forward drink that mixes the popular Italian aperitif, Campari, with sparkling wine and soda water. The cocktail is a cousin of the popular Aperol Spritz and has a beautiful bright color that makes it a great addition to any party.
If you are a fan of Campari, this drink is made for you. However, if you are not a fan of bitter flavors, the Aperol Spritz might be a better option. Overall, the Campari Spritz is a must-try cocktail for anyone who loves bubbly and refreshing drinks.
11. Blackberry Aperol Spritz
The Blackberry Aperol Spritz is a refreshing take on the classic Italian Aperol Spritz cocktail. This cocktail incorporates a homemade blackberry simple syrup to add a unique flavor and a beautiful deep pink color.
The sweetness of the blackberry syrup balances out the bitterness of the Aperol, resulting in a perfectly balanced cocktail. This drink is perfect for any occasion, but especially for a romantic Valentine's Day celebration. If you're looking for a new twist on the classic Aperol Spritz, give the Blackberry Aperol Spritz a try.
12. Cranberry Orange Aperol Spritz
The Cranberry Orange Aperol Spritz is a refreshing and festive twist on the classic Italian aperitif. The combination of Aperol liquor, Prosecco, cranberry juice, and a splash of sparkling water creates a dry yet fruity flavor profile that is perfect for any occasion.
The addition of a sprig of rosemary and fresh cranberries for garnish adds a touch of elegance and makes it a visually appealing cocktail. This cocktail is easy to make and can be served in any 16-ounce glass. If you're looking for a refreshing and festive cocktail that's perfect for winter, the Cranberry Orange Aperol Spritz is definitely worth a try.
13. Hugo Cocktail
The Hugo Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make Italian Spritz Cocktail that is perfect for aperitivo hour. Originating in northern Italy, this cocktail is made with only three ingredients – prosecco, elderflower syrup, and sparkling water.
The elderflower syrup adds a sweet and musky flavor to the drink, making it a great palate cleanser before dinner. The cocktail is garnished with mint and lime wedge, adding a touch of freshness to the already crisp and refreshing drink. If you're looking for a simple and delicious aperitivo cocktail, the Hugo Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
14. Classic Aperol Spritz Cocktail
The Classic Aperol Spritz Cocktail is a refreshing and light Italian cocktail that is perfect for a hot summer day. With just three ingredients, Aperol, Prosecco, and sparkling water, this cocktail is easy to make and has a beautiful orange color. The flavor combination of rhubarb, orange, and herbs makes it a delicious and thirst-quenching beverage.
This cocktail is perfect for those who prefer a less boozy drink, as it can be adjusted with extra sparkling soda. It can also be garnished with a grapefruit or lemon slice. If you're looking for a fun and delicious cocktail to enjoy with small bites, the Classic Aperol Spritz Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
15. Frozen Aperol Spritz Cocktail
The Frozen Aperol Spritz Cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic Italian Aperol Spritz. This frozen version of the cocktail is blended with frozen strawberries, Aperol, orange juice, prosecco, ice, and orange and grapefruit slices. The result is a refreshing and fruity cocktail that is perfect for a summer day.
The frozen texture of the cocktail makes it a fun and unique drink to serve at parties or gatherings. It's easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time by freezing the Aperol and orange juice. If you're looking for a delicious and refreshing cocktail to impress your guests, the Frozen Aperol Spritz Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
16. Pink Gin Spritz
The Pink Gin Spritz is a delightful and refreshing variation of the classic Italian Spritz cocktail. This cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and bitter flavors, thanks to the combination of pink gin, Prosecco and tonic water.
The beautiful pink hue of this cocktail is sure to catch your attention and the garnish of raspberries and lime adds a touch of elegance to the drink. The Pink Gin Spritz is perfect for a summer day or a fun night out with friends. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a fruity and flavorful cocktail.
17. Negroni Spritz Cocktail
The Negroni Spritz Cocktail is a refreshing twist on the classic Negroni, perfect for those looking for a lower alcohol content without sacrificing the traditional flavors. Made with Campari, premium gin, red vermouth, angostura bitters, soda water, and a fresh orange slice, this cocktail is a play on the classic Negroni recipe that adds bubbly to the beverage via soda water or sparkling wine like prosecco.
The origins of the Negroni are unknown, but it is widely reported that it was first mixed in Florence in 1919. The Negroni Spritz Cocktail is a great choice for a summer day or a special celebration. Serve it in a rocks glass garnished with an orange slice and enjoy the refreshing taste of Italy's favorite aperitif.
18. Aperol Cocktail
The Aperol Cocktail, also known as the Amalfi, is a modern take on the classic Italian Aperol Spritz. This cocktail combines Aperol, a bright orange Italian bitter aperitif, with white rum, lime, and pineapple juice, resulting in a sweet and tart flavor with a subtle bitter finish.
The Aperol Cocktail is perfect for those who prefer a sour cocktail over the traditional spritz. This cocktail is easy to make and is a great addition to any party or nightcap. If you're looking for a new way to use Aperol, the Aperol Cocktail is a must-try.
19. Spritz
The Italian Spritz Cocktail, also known as the Campari Spritz, is a classic cocktail made with Campari, prosecco, and sparkling water. It's a bitter yet refreshing drink that's perfect for a relaxing evening with friends or as an aperitivo before a meal.
It's garnished with fresh strawberries and oranges, which enhances its taste and beauty. The cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves bitter yet refreshing drinks.
