Ingredients:
- 2 oz (60 ml) Aperol
- 3 oz (90 ml) Prosecco (or any sparkling wine)
- 1 oz (30 ml) sparkling water or club soda
- Ice cubes
- Orange slice or twist, for garnish
- Green olive (optional, for garnish)
- A splash of soda water (optional, for extra fizz)
Instructions:
1. Prepare a Wine Glass:
- Choose a large wine glass or a balloon glass for the Aperol cocktail.
2. Add Ice Cubes:
- Fill the glass with ice cubes to keep the cocktail cold.
3. Pour Aperol:
- Pour 2 ounces (60 ml) of Aperol over the ice. Aperol is a bitter orange liqueur with a slightly herbal and citrusy flavor.
4. Add Prosecco:
- Next, add 3 ounces (90 ml) of Prosecco, a sparkling Italian wine. Its light and fruity nature pairs wonderfully with the Aperol.
5. Add Sparkling Water:
- Add 1 ounce (30 ml) of sparkling water or club soda to the mix. This provides some effervescence to the cocktail.
6. Optional Soda Water:
- If you prefer your Aperol Cocktail with extra fizz, you can add a splash of soda water at this point.
7. Gently Stir:
- Gently stir the mixture with a long spoon to blend the ingredients without disturbing the effervescence.
8. Garnish:
- Add a slice or twist of orange to the glass for garnish. The orange complements the Aperol’s citrus notes.
9. Optional Olive Garnish:
- For a unique twist, you can add a green olive to the drink as well. It’s a classic garnish in some regions.
10. Serve:
- Present the Aperol Cocktail to your guests with a straw and enjoy! The beautiful bright orange hue and balanced bittersweet flavor make it a popular and refreshing aperitif.
11. Sip and Savor:
- Sip slowly and savor the delightful balance of citrus, herbal, and bubbly notes in your Aperol Cocktail. It’s perfect for a warm afternoon or to kick off a casual gathering.