A Sparkling Pause in Portofino: The Classic Aperol Spritz

Warm afternoons in Portofino carry a kind of stillness that invites you to slow down. The light glints off the harbor, boats sway softly against their moorings, and the narrow stone lanes echo with quiet footsteps. During our magazine shoots along the Italian Riviera, Portofino was always our favorite pause. Between frames and locations, we’d take a break beneath a striped umbrella, order Aperol Spritzes, and let the moment breathe.

There’s something timeless about the drink. Its vivid orange glow felt right at home among the faded pastel buildings and bougainvillea-covered terraces. With its crisp bubbles, balanced bitterness, and citrusy lift, the Aperol Spritz never tried too hard—yet it always delivered a quiet kind of elegance. It was never just a drink; it was a punctuation mark in the day. A reminder to look around, take in the beauty, and toast to the in-between.

Making one at home is surprisingly simple. And though you may not have the Portofino skyline in front of you, this cocktail carries the mood with it. A few sips in, and you can almost hear the sea.

“Travel and drink what locals drink—that’s how you find the soul of a place.”

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Just five ingredients and five minutes—effortless yet elegant.
• Naturally low-proof, making it perfect for long, leisurely sipping.
• Gorgeous presentation with that iconic orange sparkle.
• Refreshing and aromatic, ideal for warm weather entertaining.
• Pairs beautifully with Italian aperitivo snacks.

“Every sip is a postcard from Italy.” – Imagine Living

Ingredients: A Bright and Bubbly Aperol Spritz for Two

Makes 2 servings

For the Aperol Spritz

• 6 oz Prosecco, well chilled
• 4 oz Aperol
• 2 oz soda water (club soda or sparkling water), chilled
• Orange slices, for garnish
• Ice cubes, enough to fill each glass

Equipment Needed

• Large wine glasses or balloon glasses
• Long bar spoon (optional, for stirring)
• Jigger or small measuring cup
• Citrus knife or paring knife

Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Aperol Spritz

Step 1: Fill the Glass With Ice

Start by filling your wine glass to the brim with ice cubes. The colder the better—this keeps everything crisp and refreshing without diluting too fast.

Tip:
Use large ice cubes to slow down melting and keep your spritz sparkling longer.

Step 2: Add the Prosecco

Pour 6 oz of chilled Prosecco into the glass first. This gentle base gives the drink its delicate sparkle.

Tip:
Always add Prosecco before Aperol to prevent fizz overflow and help mix gently without stirring too much.

Step 3: Pour in the Aperol

Next, pour in 4 oz of Aperol. Its bittersweet citrus aroma rises the moment it hits the Prosecco.

Tip:
Hold the bottle low to avoid splashes and preserve the bubbles.

Step 4: Top With Soda Water

Add about 2 oz of chilled soda water to finish. Just a quick splash lifts the drink with a final touch of effervescence.

Tip:
Club soda works well, but try sparkling mineral water for a subtle, mineral kick.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Slide in a fresh orange slice for a burst of citrus and that signature Italian charm. Serve immediately and sip slowly.

Tip:
Try blood orange slices for a deeper color and richer flavor in the fall season.

“Each glass captures a memory—the warmth of the sun, laughter echoing off stone walls, and the clink of a perfect toast.” – Imagine Living

This video is here as an extra source of inspiration! While it may not match this exact recipe, it offers helpful techniques, ideas, or visual guidance to enhance your cooking experience.

Time Needed to Craft the Perfect Aperol Spritz

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• No Cook Time Needed
• Total Time: 5 minutes of sparkling joy

Pro Tips for an Elegant Aperol Spritz Every Time

• Chill all your ingredients and glassware before serving—temperature is key.
• Use a wine glass with a wide bowl to appreciate the aroma and color.
• Don’t stir vigorously—gentle layering keeps the drink visually appealing.
• Invest in good Prosecco. Dry or extra dry works best for balance.
• Adjust proportions to taste: more soda for a lighter drink, more Aperol for intensity.
• Use a fresh orange slice (not dried)—you want the oils and juice.
• Keep extra Prosecco and Aperol in a small ice bucket nearby when entertaining.
• If making in batches, mix just before serving to preserve bubbles.
• Imagine the soft clinking of glasses against Italian tile—a sound that sets the scene.
• Add a sprig of rosemary for an herbal twist at sunset gatherings.

Creative Variations: Make Your Aperol Spritz Uniquely Yours

Rosé Spritz

Substitute Prosecco with sparkling rosé for a pink-hued twist that feels perfect for spring brunches.

Tip:
Go for dry rosé to avoid overpowering sweetness.

Blood Orange Aperol Spritz

Swap regular orange slices with blood orange and add a dash of blood orange juice for depth.

Tip:
Best served during citrus season for the richest flavor.

Grapefruit Aperol Spritz

Replace soda water with grapefruit soda for a tart, tangy version that’s incredibly refreshing.

Tip:
Pair with salty snacks to balance the bitterness.

Elderflower Spritz

Add a splash of elderflower liqueur before topping with soda for a floral finish.

Tip:
Use half the Aperol to let the floral notes shine.

Cucumber & Mint Spritz

Infuse your soda water with cucumber slices and mint for a cooling garden-inspired take.

Tip:
Serve with a mint sprig on top for extra aroma.

Low-Alcohol Spritz

Reduce Aperol and Prosecco slightly and increase the soda water to make it lighter.

Tip:
Perfect for longer afternoons when you want to sip slowly.

Sparkling Red Aperol Spritz

Try a Lambrusco or sparkling red in place of Prosecco for a bold, unexpected color and body.

Tip:
Use in cooler months and garnish with a cherry instead of orange.

“Creativity is the soul of cooking—and drinking.” – Imagine Living

Serving Suggestions

Here’s how to elevate your Aperol Spritz experience:

• Serve with a bowl of green Castelvetrano olives and almonds.
• Pair with thin slices of prosciutto and Parmigiano-Reggiano.
• Add Italian crostini or focaccia with rosemary and olive oil.
• Offer alongside fresh melon wrapped in cured meats for a sweet-savory pairing.
• Set the mood with soft music and glowing candlelight—Portofino style.

Storage and Reheating

While the Aperol Spritz is best enjoyed freshly made, here are a few practical notes:

• Don’t store assembled spritzes—they lose their bubbles quickly.
• Keep Prosecco, Aperol, and soda water chilled separately until ready to use.
• For gatherings, pre-slice citrus garnishes and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
• If making a large batch, mix right before serving to preserve fizz and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overfilling With Soda Water

Adding too much soda dilutes the flavor and makes it taste flat.

Tip:
Stick to 2 oz or less per glass for a balanced spritz.

Pouring Aperol First

This causes it to settle at the bottom and leads to uneven flavor.

Tip:
Start with Prosecco, then Aperol, then soda.

Using Warm Ingredients

Warm ingredients will dull the spritz’s sparkle and flavor.

Tip:
Chill every component, especially the Prosecco and glass.

Skipping the Garnish

The orange slice isn’t just pretty—it adds aroma and taste.

Tip:
Never underestimate the power of a fresh citrus garnish.

Over-Stirring

Too much stirring kills the bubbles and clouds the drink.

Tip:
Let the layering do the work; one gentle stir is enough if needed.

Choosing a Sweet Prosecco

Sweet wines can overpower the drink’s delicate bitterness.

Tip:
Look for “Brut” or “Extra Dry” labels.

FAQs

What Is the Best Prosecco for Aperol Spritz?

A dry or extra dry Prosecco gives the perfect balance against Aperol’s sweetness.

Tip:
Look for DOC or DOCG quality labels for the best results.

Can I Make an Aperol Spritz Without Prosecco?

Yes, but the flavor will change. You can try sparkling white wine or a dry cider.

Tip:
Choose something crisp and not too sweet.

Is Aperol the Same as Campari?

No, Aperol is lighter, sweeter, and less bitter than Campari.

Tip:
If you prefer a stronger, bolder drink, try a Campari Spritz.

Can I Make It in a Pitcher?

Yes, especially for parties. Just mix gently and add soda water last.

Tip:
Add ice and garnish just before serving to keep it fresh.

Is Aperol Spritz Gluten-Free?

Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free, but double-check specific brands if needed.

Tip:
Stick to reputable, labeled products if serving guests with allergies.

What’s the Alcohol Content?

Roughly 11% ABV depending on your Prosecco and how much soda water is added.

Tip:
Adjust proportions for a lower or higher alcohol version.

The Sparkle of Portofino in Every Sip

The Aperol Spritz is more than a drink—it’s a mood, a memory, and a little glass of sunshine. Whether you’re reminiscing about Mediterranean coastlines or simply chasing the golden hour from your own balcony, this classic Italian aperitivo brings elegance to any moment.

“Some memories live in the taste of something cold, sweet, and citrusy, shared with people you love.” – Imagine Living