Buzz
When you think of spritz cocktails, the Aperol Spritz is likely the first to come to mind—and with good reason, it’s absolutely delicious. This Italian favorite combines sparkling wine, Aperol (or a different liqueur), and soda water. But if you’re looking for something new, there are plenty of other spritz variations you should give a try.
How to Craft the Perfect Spritz
Every spritz drink follows a simple recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
Sparkling wine
Aperol or another type of liqueur (often a bitter variety)
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Soda water
To prepare the ideal spritz, begin by pouring two ounces of sparkling wine into a glass. Add one ounce of Aperol (or another bitter liqueur), then top it off with soda water. Garnish with an orange slice, twist, or even an olive, and savor the refreshing mix.
Campari Spritz
One of the most popular alternatives to the Aperol Spritz, the Campari Spritz offers a more bitter and intricate taste. This cocktail blends Campari, sparkling wine, and soda water, making it the ideal choice for those who prefer something less sweet. Campari features a blend of herbs and spices, including orange, rhubarb, and anise.
Americano Spritz
For a classic variation on the Aperol Spritz, try the Americano Spritz. This cocktail combines sweet vermouth, Campari, and sparkling water. It packs a bit more of a punch than the Aperol Spritz but is just as delightful. (The Americano cocktail itself is made with club soda, sweet vermouth, Campari, and orange, and the Americano Spritz is a spritz version of this classic drink.)
Pamplemousse Spritz
If you're in the mood for something different, the Pamplemousse Spritz might be just what you're looking for. Made with grapefruit liqueur (try Pampelle Grapefruit Aperitif for an excellent option), sparkling wine, and soda water, it’s a tangy, refreshing option perfect for summer sipping.
Cynar Spritz (also known as Calindri Spritz)
If you're a fan of bittersweet cocktails, the Cynar Spritz is sure to please. Made with Cynar, a woodsy, bittersweet liqueur with flavors of caramel, toffee, and cinnamon, and finished with a bitter herbal note, this spritz uses sparkling wine and soda water. It's a great choice for those who prefer a more bitter twist on their spritz compared to Aperol but still sweeter than Campari. The drink is sometimes called a Calindri Spritz, named after a 1966 ad featuring actor Ernesto Calindri, who enjoyed the bitter aperitif as an antidote to 'the strain of modern life.'
Strawberry Spritz
For a fruity, less bitter spin on the Aperol Spritz, try the Strawberry Spritz. This cocktail blends strawberry liqueur (Bols is a great affordable choice), sparkling wine, and soda water. You can easily swap the strawberry liqueur for any other fruit-flavored version you like.
Boulevardier Spritz
This spritz is perfect for bourbon enthusiasts. Made with bourbon (or another type of whiskey), Campari, and sweet vermouth, the Boulevardier Spritz is a stronger option compared to others on the list. It’s based on the Boulevardier cocktail, which is a twist on the Negroni, typically made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari.
St. Agrestis Paradiso Spritz
If you’re after something truly one-of-a-kind, give the St. Agrestis Paradiso Spritz a try. This cocktail combines St. Agrestis Inferno Bitter, Prosecco, and soda water. It’s less bitter than many traditional spritz liqueurs and features a more complex herbal profile. The Agrestis Paradiso is crafted in Brooklyn.
Lillet Blanc Spritz
This spritz is perfect for wine lovers. It blends Lillet Blanc, sparkling wine, and soda water. Lillet Blanc is a French aperitif akin to a semi-sweet vermouth with herbal, floral, and citrus flavors. It’s slightly sweet and a fantastic alternative if you’re in the mood for something less bitter than Aperol.
Italicus Spritz
This spritz is made for gin lovers. It’s crafted with Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto, sparkling wine, and soda water. Italicus is a citrus-forward liqueur that only emerged in 2016, so you’ll be ahead of the curve by introducing this fresh spritz option to your friends.
