Aperol Spritz Recipe: The 3-2-1 Formula for a Perfect Italian Aperitivo

By Aquarium Guides Editorial Team · Updated November 9, 2026

Last Updated: November 9, 2026

The easiest way to remember an Aperol spritz is the 3-2-1 formula: three parts prosecco, two parts Aperol, and one part soda water, built over ice in a large wine glass and garnished with an orange slice. In ounces, that is 3 oz prosecco, 2 oz Aperol, and a splash (about 1 oz) of soda. It is light, bubbly, and gently bittersweet.

The spritz comes from northern Italy, where it is a standard early-evening aperitivo served with snacks. Aperol has a lower alcohol content than most liqueurs, but a spritz still contains alcohol, so enjoy it responsibly, especially on a warm afternoon.

Ingredients

• 3 oz prosecco, chilled
• 2 oz Aperol
• 1 oz soda water (a splash)
• Ice cubes
• 1 orange slice or half-wheel, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a large wine glass or stemless goblet generously with ice. A full glass keeps the drink cold and slows dilution.
2. Pour in the prosecco first, then add the Aperol.
3. Top with a splash of soda water.
4. Give a single gentle stir, lifting from the bottom, to combine without knocking out the bubbles.
5. Tuck an orange slice against the inside of the glass.

Why the Order Matters

Pouring the prosecco before the Aperol helps the bitter orange liqueur mix in naturally, so you do not need to stir hard. Heavy stirring knocks out carbonation, and a flat spritz tastes sweet and dull. The soda water goes in last because its main job is to refresh and lengthen the drink while keeping the fizz lively.

Ratio Options

What Aperol Tastes Like

Aperol is a bright orange Italian aperitivo made with bitter orange, gentian, rhubarb, and other botanicals. It is sweeter and less bitter than Campari and lower in alcohol, usually around 11 percent ABV. In a spritz, it provides a marmalade-like orange flavor with a mild bitter finish that makes you want another sip.

Picking the Right Prosecco

Prosecco labeled “brut” is the most common choice. It is dry enough to balance the sweetness of Aperol. “Extra dry” prosecco is actually slightly sweeter than brut, which can push the spritz toward syrupy. If you only have a sweeter bottle, use a little extra soda water. Any dry sparkling wine will also work, such as cava, in a pinch.

Spritz Variations

Campari spritz

Replace Aperol with Campari for a deeper red color and sharper bitterness. Use slightly more soda to soften it.

Select spritz

Made with Select, the Venetian aperitivo, and garnished with a green olive. It is the traditional Venice spritz.

Limoncello spritz

Combine 2 oz limoncello, 3 oz prosecco, and 1 oz soda with a lemon slice and mint.

Elderflower spritz

Use 1.5 oz elderflower liqueur, 3 oz prosecco, and 1.5 oz soda. Garnish with cucumber or lemon.

Frozen Aperol spritz

Blend Aperol, prosecco, and ice into a slush, or freeze the Aperol-and-soda mix into cubes for a gradually changing drink.

Non-alcoholic spritz

Use a non-alcoholic bitter orange aperitif, non-alcoholic sparkling wine, and soda water in the same proportions.

Tips for a Better Spritz

• Chill everything. Warm prosecco foams up and goes flat quickly.
• Use lots of ice. A glass packed with ice stays cold longer than a half-empty one.
• Choose a big glass. The wide bowl lets the aroma of orange open up.
• Serve right away. A spritz does not hold well; it should be made to order.
• Pick a juicy orange slice. A fresh wedge or half-wheel adds citrus oils as you drink.

Serving and Pairing

In Italy, a spritz is served with small snacks to open the appetite. The slight bitterness and sweetness work well with salty, crunchy, and savory bites:

• Potato chips and salted nuts
• Green olives and marinated artichokes
• Prosciutto and cantaloupe
• Bruschetta with tomatoes
• Small sandwiches, such as tramezzini
• Parmesan chunks and focaccia

Making Spritzes for a Group

Do not mix prosecco into a pitcher ahead of time, because it will lose its fizz. Instead, pre-mix the Aperol and soda water base. For eight drinks, combine 16 oz Aperol and 8 oz soda in a pitcher and refrigerate. When guests arrive, fill glasses with ice, add 3 oz of prosecco to each, and top with 3 oz of the Aperol-soda mixture. Add the garnish and serve right away.

FAQ

What does an Aperol spritz taste like?

It tastes like bitter orange and light herbs, with a bubbly, slightly sweet finish. It is refreshing rather than heavy.

Can I make an Aperol spritz without prosecco?

Yes. Other dry sparkling wines like cava or crémant work. For a non-alcoholic version, use alcohol-free sparkling wine or just add more soda.

Why is my spritz too sweet?

It may be the prosecco. Switch to brut, increase the soda, or reduce the Aperol slightly.

Does the garnish matter?

Yes, a bit. An orange slice reinforces the orange notes in Aperol. Some people prefer a green olive for a savory contrast, as in Venice.

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