10 Aperol spritz alternatives that are perfect for summer
It's the summer of spritz, so what better way to celebrate than with an ice-cold tipple in your hand? Try one of our party drinks below, all made in minutes
Nothing signals the start of summer quite like an ice-cold cocktail. And, according to Google Trends, there's one in particular that's tantalising tastebuds online: the spritz. Interest in spritz cocktails is currently at a record high, with cocktail enthusiasts favouring the sparkling Italian tipple during the warmer months. Often served as an apéritif before a meal – and made using just three ingredients – the Aperol spritz is proving to be the most popular, closely followed by the limoncello spritz. Learn how to make an Aperol spritz.
But, what is a spritz made of, and what are the proportions? Good Food's senior food editor Anna Glover shares how to make the perfect spritz:
"A spritz is basically 3-2-1: three parts prosecco, two parts apéritif/spirit (amaro), one part soda/sparking water. Ice is as important as the ratios – the more the merrier, and it has to be a large wine glass. You can make a spritz with any amaro or herbal liqueur, or experiment with other flavours such as limoncello, elderflower liqueur or gin."
To celebrate the trending cocktail, we've shared our favourite spritz recipes below. Whether it's a ruby red campari spritz, non-alcoholic summer spritz or spritz with a pink gin twist, we guarantee that one of these ideas will soon become your favourite new refresher.
For more spritz recipes, see our ultimate collection of spritz cocktails, then check out our Italian cocktail recipes and summer cocktail recipes.
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1. Campari spritz
Famed for its bright-red hue and bittersweet flavour, a Campari spritz is a popular alternative to its Aperol cousin. Made with red amaro liqueur, prosecco and an orange peel twist, it's a sophisticated tipple to sip on pre-dinner.
2. Limoncello spritz
Swap Aperol for limoncello in this easy recipe from Lina Stores. Made in minutes, you could add extra flavour by infusing the limoncello with thyme sprigs for the perfect summer drink.
3. Lychee spritz
The spritz takes a floral turn in this pretty pink lychee spritz, with a hint of tropical fruit thanks to lychee juice and rosewater. Garnished with a raspberry, it's a fruity drink for balmy summer days.
4. Apple spritz
You've heard of Aperol spritz, but how about apple spritz? We've replaced soda water with apple cider (though you can still top up with soda water) for a fruity, tart twist that's perfect for celebrations. Garnish with apple slices for a sophisticated serve.
5. Non-alcoholic summer spritz
Try our non-alcoholic spritz, which uses granadilla – a type of passion fruit that's both sweet and sour – for a tropical tipple with a slight tartness.
6. Elderflower spritz
Swap prosecco and Aperol for gin and elderflower liqueur to make this thirst-quenching cocktail, garnished with slices of fresh lime. It boasts sweet, floral notes.
7. Pink gin spritz
Mix up a glass of this pink gin spritz for a refreshing drink with a pleasant sparkling sweetness. Pairing pink gin with lychee liqueur, it's beautifully delicate – ideal for an al fresco gathering.
8. Ginger spritz
Our ginger-flavoured spritz combines ale, prosecco and ginger beer – it's a summery tipple that will have you and your pals fizzing with excitement at your next get-together.
9. Rhubarb spritz
Take your love of spritz further with this impressive rhubarb blend. Combining a tart rhubarb syrup with sharp lemon, rosé wine and soda water, it's a nicely balanced drink to serve to dinner party guests.
10. Zesty spritz
Treat friends or family members to this simple summer cocktail. It's equal parts refreshing and zesty, using sharp blood orange, bitters and prosecco for a dash of fun fizz.
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