That vibrant orange Aperol Spritz in your hand might look Instagram-perfect, but according to leading mixologists, there's a high chance you're making a fundamental error that's compromising your favourite summer tipple.
The Ice-Cold Truth About Your Aperol Spritz
While most Brits reach for their ice cube trays as the first step in crafting this Italian classic, professional bartenders reveal this common practice is actually back-to-front. The secret to an authentically perfect Aperol Spritz lies in one crucial preparation step that most home drinkers completely overlook.
The Professional Method Most People Get Wrong
"The biggest mistake I see is people building their Spritz directly in the glass with ice already in it," explains renowned mixologist Giovanni Lombardo. "This prevents proper mixing and chilling, resulting in a diluted, unbalanced drink that never reaches its full potential."
Instead, experts recommend this professional approach:
- Start with your prosecco - pour directly into an empty glass
- Add Aperol next - allowing the two liquids to blend naturally
- Finish with ice and soda - this preserves the bubbles and prevents premature dilution
Why This Method Makes All the Difference
This seemingly simple adjustment transforms your drinking experience in several key ways:
- Better integration of flavours - the Aperol and prosecco blend seamlessly
- Optimal carbonation - your bubbles last significantly longer
- Perfect chill without over-dilution - the drink stays crisp and refreshing
- Authentic Italian experience - this is how it's served in Venice and Milan
The Perfect Aperol Spritz Recipe Revealed
For those ready to elevate their home cocktail game, here's the exact professional formula:
Ingredients:
- 100ml prosecco (chilled)
- 50ml Aperol
- Splash of soda water
- Large ice cubes
- Orange slice for garnish
Method:
Begin by pouring your chilled prosecco into a large wine glass. Follow with the Aperol, allowing the beautiful orange hue to cascade through the bubbles. Only then should you add your ice cubes - preferably large ones that melt slowly. Top with a modest splash of soda water and finish with a fresh orange slice.
"The order might seem trivial, but it makes a world of difference to the final product," confirms Lombardo. "When you get the sequence right, you unlock the true harmony of bitter Aperol, dry prosecco and refreshing soda that makes this cocktail so beloved."
Summer Entertaining Made Simple
With barbecue season and garden parties approaching, mastering this technique means you can serve bar-quality Aperol Spritzes to guests without the cocktail shaker stress. The method is quick, requires no special equipment, and guarantees consistent results every time.
So next time you're craving that signature bittersweet refreshment, remember: ice comes last, not first. Your taste buds - and your guests - will thank you for it.
