We’re here to help you know your Hugo’s from your Aperol’s. But what is a spritz and how is it best enjoyed?
Spritzers are all about adding the bubbles to bring extra enjoyment to life’s moments. Traditionally drank as an aperitif (pre-meal drink) and accompanied with small bites of food such as – olives, crisps, tarallo’s, crostini’s, the idea is to kick-start your appetite before dinner.
What makes something the perfect spritz? The combination of bubbly prosecco (or sparkling wine), a liquor of your choice, a splash of soda and a garnish to finish off, topped up with some refreshing ice. It also usually follows the 3, 2, 1 recipe which makes it nice and easy to make!
Here’s your guide to making the best spritzers to brighten up your summer.
1. Aperol Spritz
The OG of spritzers (or most popular…). This bright orange drink is the nectar from the Gods. I love the sweet, orangey flavour combined with the touch of bitterness that makes it so easy to drink. It’s the overall fun, summery vibe you get from the colour as well that makes this such a loved drink around the world now.
Recipe:
- 3-part Prosecco or sparkling wine
- 2-part Aperol
- 1-part soda
- Slice of orange for garnish & served over ice
2. Hugo Spritz
Last year Hugo Spritz took off in a big way, offering a new alternative to the bright Aperol spritz. But what is this spritz alternative? Well the key ingredient is the Elderflower liquer (traditionally St Germain). The almost clear spritzer makes a more refined looking spritz and offers a refreshing, sweet, more herbal flavour.
Recipe:
- 3-part Prosecco or sparkling wine
- 2-part Elderflower Liquer (St Germain)
- 1-part soda
- Mint & lime for garnish & served over ice
3. Campari Spritz
Anyone that loves their drinks on the more bitter side of the taste palette, then this is the spritz for you. Perfect accompaniment to any aperitivo hour wherever you are in the world.
Recipe:
- 3-part Prosecco or sparkling wine
- 2-part Campari
- 1-part soda
- Slice of orange & served over ice
4. Limoncello Spritz
If you like your drinks zesty and on the sweeter side, then the latest trending spritz is one to start enjoying. This was the drink that got our wedding party started in Puglia, the guests couldn’t get enough of it. Cold, refreshing and thirst-quenching, it’s the ideal drink on a hot summer’s day.
Recipe:
- 3-part Prosecco or sparkling wine
- 2-part Limoncello
- 1-part soda
- Slice of lemon & thyme (or mint), served over ice
5. Amaro Spritz
I have only ever had this in Italy. So how did it taste? I’d describe this as a very herbal, slightly bitter flavour with a touch of sweetness to top it off. It’s quite a unique flavour but something different to try.
Recipe:
- 3-part Prosecco or sparkling wine
- 2-part Amaro
- 1-part soda
- Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice and a citrus slice to garnish, served over ice
