Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz is deeply rooted in the culture of the Veneto region, particularly around Venice.

The tradition of the "spritz" dates back to the 19th century, originally emerging from the habit of adding a splash of soda water to wine to lighten the drink for daytime consumption. Over time, the addition of bitter liqueurs became the standard, evolving into the iconic aperitivo culture seen across Italy today.

Aperol itself was created in Padua in 1919, offering a gentler, sweeter alternative to the more intense bitter liqueurs of the era. The drink is designed to be consumed before a meal to stimulate the appetite, a practice known as the aperitivo. This ritual is as much about social connection as it is about the beverage, typically paired with light snacks like olives or crisps.

In recent decades, the Aperol Spritz has transitioned from a regional Venetian favourite to a global symbol of the Italian summer. Its bright colour and refreshing taste have made it a staple in cafes and bars worldwide. Despite its global reach, it remains a quintessential expression of the Italian philosophy of "dolce far niente", or the sweetness of doing nothing. ■

See the full recipe for Aperol Spritz