The Spritz is the ultimate summer cocktail, loved for its refreshing taste, vibrant orange colour, and easy preparation. Here's why it stands out:
- Refreshing and Light: Made with sparkling wine, a bitter aperitif, and soda water, it’s crisp and perfect for warm weather.
- Low Alcohol Content: At 11% ABV, it suits the UK's growing trend of moderate drinking.
- Versatile: From the classic Aperol Spritz to variations like the Hugo Spritz, there’s a style for everyone.
- Social Appeal: Its simple 3-2-1 recipe is ideal for group gatherings.
Whether you're hosting a garden party or relaxing at a pub, the Spritz is a timeless choice for summer. Plus, it’s now enjoyed year-round across Britain.
Want to make one? Combine sparkling wine, aperitivo, soda water, and ice in a large wine glass. Garnish with an orange slice or raspberries for a British twist.
How to Make a Perfect Aperol Spritz | Classic Italian Cocktail Recipe
History of the Spritz
The Spritz has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a simple mix of wine and water to becoming a global favourite for summer sipping. Its origins are deeply tied to European history, particularly in the Veneto region of Italy during the late 19th century, when the area was under Austro-Hungarian rule. This historical connection highlights its unique blend of cultural influences.
Italian-Austrian Origins
The name "Spritz" reflects its dual heritage, coming from the German word spritzen, which means "to splash". Austrian soldiers stationed in Veneto found the local wines too strong for their taste and began diluting them with a splash of water to make them more drinkable. Even today, this tradition lives on, with about 300,000 Spritzes enjoyed daily in the Veneto region.
The Evolution of Ingredients
Over the years, the Spritz has undergone significant transformation, evolving from a basic mix of white wine and water into the vibrant cocktail we know today. Italian creativity played a key role in refining the recipe, introducing sparkling water and bitter aperitifs to craft its now-iconic flavour.
In 2003, a major turning point came when Gruppo Campari acquired Aperol and launched a global campaign to popularise the Spritz. They modernised its image by swapping traditional glassware for large wine glasses and replacing the classic olive garnish with the now-famous orange slice.
The Spritz's growing popularity is reflected in recent market data:
| Year | Achievement | Statistics |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Global Prosecco Sales | 638 million bottles (~£2.56 billion) |
| 2022 Q1 | Market Growth | 72% increase in sales across key markets |
| 2023 | Market Performance | Sales tripled year-over-year |
Brittney Escalante, brand ambassador for Juliette, captures the essence of the Spritz's appeal:
"The spritz is really a simple formula, which allows for infinite variations... I don't think its cultural significance has veered too far from its origins in the Veneto region of Italy, as part of their aperitivo traditions, but it certainly has evolved to include a broader range of ingredients."
The Spritz's enduring popularity lies in its adaptability. While it remains rooted in its Venetian aperitivo tradition, its ability to embrace new ingredients and styles has made it a timeless classic that continues to charm drinkers around the world.
3 Reasons the Spritz Rules Summer
The Spritz has cemented its place as a summer favourite, thanks to its harmonious flavour, striking appearance, and undeniable social appeal.
Balanced Taste Profile
The Spritz offers a refreshing and well-rounded taste that perfectly complements warm weather. Its effervescence adds a light, airy quality to the drink, enhancing its delicate aromas. As James Stimson, senior brand manager at Franklin & Sons, puts it:
"Bubbles are extremely important in the Spritz as they add lightness, freshness and carry the more delicate aromas and flavours out of the glass."
With just the right touch of sweetness, the Spritz whets the appetite, making it ideal for those leisurely summer afternoons. The carbonation also delivers a crisp, clean mouthfeel, ensuring every sip feels invigorating. But the appeal of the Spritz goes beyond just its flavour.
Eye-Catching Orange Colour
The vibrant orange hue of the Spritz has become synonymous with summer gatherings. This bold colour isn’t just visually striking - it’s a symbol of relaxation and enjoyment. It’s even sparked trends like "Spritz nails", showcasing its influence on summer aesthetics. Cocktail expert Luca Missaglia highlights its visual impact:
"Something that colourful served in a giant fishbowl of a glass, with lots of ice – that sticks in your mind."
And as Luisa Hallen of SoGood Saké reflects:
"When you go on holidays and you're watching the sun set and you drink an Aperol spritz you've found the meaning of, you know, happiness."
Perfect for Group Gatherings
The Spritz isn’t just a solo indulgence - it’s a drink designed to bring people together. Its simple recipe, adaptability, and lower alcohol content make it a go-to choice for social occasions. With a 5.3% share of the UK cocktail market, it’s clear the Spritz thrives in group settings.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Easy 3-2-1 Ratio | Makes it simple to prepare for larger groups |
| Versatility | Complements a variety of dishes and can be customised |
| Ideal Glassware | Large wine glasses keep it cool and refreshing |
| Lower Alcohol Content | Perfect for longer, relaxed gatherings |
James Stimson sums it up beautifully:
"It represents a moment in a person's day when they can be fully relaxed."
How to Make a Spritz
Whipping up a Spritz at home is a breeze, especially when you use Asterley Bros' handcrafted botanical spirits. Staying true to its refreshing nature, here's how you can create this perfect summer cocktail.
Basic Spritz Recipe
The classic Asterley Spritz relies on a simple 3:2:1 ratio to strike the perfect balance of flavours.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Sparkling Wine | 75ml |
| Asterley Original Aperitivo | 50ml |
| Soda Water | 25ml |
| Ice | Fill glass with ice |
| Garnish | 3–4 fresh raspberries |
To make it, fill a large wine glass with ice. Pour in the sparkling wine first, then add Asterley Original Aperitivo. Finish by topping it with soda water to keep its fizz intact.
Recipe Modifications
Looking for something with a bit more depth? Add a splash of Asterley's Amaro to infuse the drink with herbal complexity.
As one Amazon Vine reviewer noted in December 2024:
"Asterley Original has a complex and herbaceous flavor profile, making it a superior aperitif for a spritz compared to Italian equivalents."
Serving Guidelines
Once your Spritz is ready, follow these serving tips to make it look as good as it tastes:
- Use a large wine glass to allow room for plenty of ice and easy mixing.
- Fill the glass generously with ice to keep the drink chilled.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and effervescence.
- Add 3–4 fresh raspberries on top as garnish.
- Stir gently after assembling to blend the flavours without losing the fizz.
The raspberries not only add a pop of colour but also give this drink a distinctive British flair.
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Eco-Friendly Spritz Making
Crafting a more sustainable Spritz doesn’t mean sacrificing flavour. By embracing eco-conscious methods and locally-sourced ingredients, you can create a refreshing, environmentally-friendly cocktail that’s perfect for summer. This approach aligns beautifully with the Spritz tradition of using simple, high-quality components.
British-Made Ingredients
Sustainability gets a boost when you focus on locally-produced ingredients. Choosing British-made options not only reduces transport emissions but also highlights the country’s thriving drinks industry. For example, English sparkling wines are an excellent substitute for Prosecco, offering similar quality with a much smaller carbon footprint.
Here are some sustainable British ingredient suggestions for your Spritz:
| Component | Sustainable Choice | Environmental Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Sparkling Wine | Nyetimber Classic Cuvée | Reduced transport emissions |
| Aperitivo | Asterley Original | London-made, minimising transportation needs |
| Garnish | British-grown raspberries | Locally sourced and seasonal |
Tim Wildman MW, an English wine producer from Lost in a Field, captures the spirit of collaboration among British producers:
"The sense of collaboration was inspiring"
This teamwork has driven innovative, sustainable practices across the industry.
Zero-Waste Tips
Reducing waste is key to eco-friendly cocktail making. Here are some practical tips to make the most of your ingredients:
Creative Garnishes
- Dehydrate leftover fruit to make long-lasting garnishes.
- Freeze surplus fruit into decorative ice cubes.
- Use edible flowers from your garden as seasonal garnishes.
Storage Smarts
- Keep vermouth and aperitivo chilled in the fridge after opening.
- Extend the life of opened sparkling wine with wine preservers.
- Batch ingredients for larger gatherings to minimise bottle waste.
"Around 80% of the non-spirit ingredients in the menu come from the hotel's ecosystem, which naturally also means cost saving, allowing us to invest extra budget in equipment, research and development"
For entertaining at home, opt for reusable glassware and metal straws. For larger gatherings, serving from lightweight, recyclable kegs can help lower your carbon footprint.
It’s also worth noting that organic wine production is projected to grow by 10% annually until 2030. By incorporating these sustainable practices, you’re not just mixing a delicious summer drink - you’re also contributing to a greener, more responsible drinking culture.
Conclusion
With its deep-rooted history, versatile recipe, and focus on mindful practices, the Spritz has firmly secured its place as the go-to summer cocktail. Its 5.3% market share in the UK highlights how effortlessly it captures the essence of sunny, social occasions.
"It's a drink with incredibly strong emotive imagery that has been attributed to the classic Mediterranean vacations. It represents a moment in a person's day when they can be fully relaxed"
The Spritz isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience. Its adaptability and simple preparation have made it a favourite for both seasoned bartenders and home enthusiasts looking to add a touch of creativity to their gatherings.
"It's a hymn to slowness... The desire to prolong the moment before the dinner. It's an excuse to drink, nibble and stay together a little longer before going home"
Since its rise in popularity around 2010, the Spritz has consistently captured the imagination of cocktail lovers. By choosing locally sourced ingredients and embracing sustainable serving methods, you not only enhance the flavour but also contribute to a more thoughtful way of entertaining.
Whether it’s an intimate garden soirée or a lively summer celebration, the Spritz strikes the perfect balance between elegance and ease, making it a quintessential choice for British summer festivities.
FAQs
Why is the Spritz considered a more sustainable choice for a summer cocktail?
Why the Spritz is a Greener Summer Cocktail
The Spritz earns its place as a more eco-conscious choice for summer drinks, thanks to its straightforward preparation and emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients. By opting for fresh produce and reusable bar tools, this cocktail manages to significantly lower its environmental footprint. Plus, sourcing ingredients locally not only reduces transportation emissions but also gives a boost to nearby businesses.
Its simplicity also means less waste. Unlike more elaborate cocktails, the Spritz doesn’t rely heavily on pre-packaged ingredients, cutting down on packaging materials. And because it’s so adaptable, you can tweak it based on what’s in season or already in your kitchen. That makes it not just delicious but also a thoughtful, planet-friendly way to toast to summer.
What makes the Spritz a timeless summer favourite?
The Spritz owes its timeless charm to its deep roots in Italian aperitivo traditions. Born in the Veneto region during the 19th century, it started as a straightforward mix of local wine and soda water. This combination was introduced by Austro-Hungarian soldiers, who adjusted the local wine to suit their tastes in the region's warmer climate. Over the years, it transformed into a beloved pre-dinner ritual, embodying relaxation and the joy of socialising.
Even today, the Spritz holds its place as a summer favourite. Its light, bubbly character and flexibility with ingredients make it an ideal choice for balmy evenings and gatherings with friends. This seamless blend of history and modern-day appeal continues to secure its reputation as the quintessential summer cocktail.
Can I customise a classic Spritz to match my taste or dietary preferences?
The classic Spritz recipe is a favourite for a reason - it’s simple, refreshing, and easy to customise. Traditionally, it’s made with three parts Prosecco, two parts Aperol, and a splash of soda water. But the beauty of this drink lies in how you can tweak it to match your preferences or dietary choices.
Want to switch things up? Try replacing Aperol with Campari for a bolder taste or use Cynar for a herbaceous twist. For a non-alcoholic version, swap in a bitter-free alternative. You can also play around with the base - experiment with different sparkling wines, flavoured sodas, or even add a touch of elderflower liqueur for a hint of sweetness. Garnish with fresh orange slices, berries, or any fruit you fancy to make it even more vibrant. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for summer get-togethers, offering something for everyone.