Shoppers at Home Bargains have discovered a drink that they claim tastes "exactly like" an Aperol Spritz, but costs just £4.49. The product, ArtSpritz, is described by its makers as "dynamic, refreshing and full of life", with a "low alcohol content" and a flavour based on orange and infusions of herbs and spices.
YouTuber The Brownie Life has praised the drink, saying it is the nearest thing she has tried to a classic Aperol Spritz. She highlighted that the ready-made bottle removes the need to buy separate ingredients such as Aperol, Prosecco and soda water. The content creator noted that the drink "tastes quite strong" and was surprised to find it has an ABV of eight per cent, adding that she plans to "rebuy" it.
"It absolutely does taste like an Aperol Spritz that I have been used to when I have been in Italy," she said. "Honestly, I can highly recommend this product. When you want a beautiful summer drink, sit in the garden, why not treat yourself."
However, two Italian food and wine experts have previously suggested that many Britons are consuming the drink incorrectly. Benedetta and Valeria, who run the business Local Aromas in Italy, say the spritz is traditionally an aperitivo drink, meant to be bitter and enjoyed before a meal rather than alongside it.
"The bitterness serves the purpose of opening your stomach to then go have dinner," Benedetta explained. She advised that it is fine to have a spritz half an hour to an hour before lunch or dinner, but not with a main course such as carbonara or pizza.
