Discover the captivating realm of Aperol cocktails beyond the nationwide Aperol Spritz phenomenon. Aperol, a remarkably versatile spirit, extends far beyond its reputation as a one-trick pony. Now, the rest of the world is awakening to what Italians have cherished for years—the enchanting harmony of Aperol’s citrusy bitterness.
Aperol originated in Padua, Italy, in 1919, created by brothers Luigi and Silvio Barbieri. They specifically crafted the spirit as an aperitivo, designed to be savored before dinner to stimulate the appetite for the forthcoming meal. During that period, the tradition of the pre-dinner aperitivo was prevalent in the region, and a wide range of invigorating beverages to accompany this ritual were emerging.
During the 1950s, the Aperol Spritz emerged as a trendy aperitivo across Europe, gaining immense popularity. Over time, Aperol evolved to become Italy’s top-selling spirit. Although it took a few decades for the refreshing blend of prosecco, Aperol, and club soda to truly catch on in the United States, this delightful cocktail has since witnessed a remarkable surge in its following.
Aperol is known for its bittersweet taste and delightful flavors of orange, gentian, rhubarb, and cinchona. With its moderate 11% ABV (alcohol by volume), it offers a more gentle and subtly bitter taste compared to its counterpart, Campari. Both belong to the amaro family, alongside other liqueurs such as Cynar, Averna, and Fernet Branca. Thanks to Aperol’s accessible citrus-sweet flavor profile and vibrant, sunny appearance in the glass, it has made a significant impact on the spirits world, compared to other amari, and has made history in the process.
While the Aperol Spritz is widely enjoyed, Aperol itself is a versatile spirit that goes beyond the bubbly favorite. For those seeking innovative ways to incorporate Aperol beyond its patio-friendly sips, these imaginative and clever cocktails will put that bottle of electric orange magic to wider use.
1. Aperol Spritz
If you haven’t already, discover the radiant and bubbly Aperol Spritz. A beloved drink served in wine goblets worldwide. This refreshing beverage combines Italian aperitivo Aperol, prosecco, and club soda. Notably, the recipe for this beloved drink is conveniently printed on every Aperol bottle.
2. Division Bell
The Division Bell presents a delightful variation of a renowned classic cocktail. While it deviates from the traditional equal-parts recipe of the Last Word, The Division Bell maintains its essence by incorporating maraschino liqueur and lime juice. This innovative concoction substitutes gin with mezcal and green Chartreuse with Aperol, resulting in a captivating blend of smoky and bitter-sweet flavors. making The Division Bell a must-try for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a mezcal-based twist on the classic Last Word.
3. Frozen Negroni
This Frozen Negroni offers a perfect way to cool down on a sunny day. It puts a creative spin on the traditional equal-parts Negroni by substituting bitter Campari with the refreshing citrus notes of Aperol. The gin is amped up, mixed with sweet vermouth, and balanced with grapefruit bitters and a touch of salt. When blended with ice, these ingredients create a unique variation that still evokes the classic Negroni.
4. Rivier Spritz
Introducing the Riviera Spritz, this exquisite beverage beautifully combines the flavors of Aperol, Campari, and St-Germain. Delight in its ability to transport you to the sun-kissed shores of the Riviera, regardless of the season. Experience the Riviera Spritz and embark on a flavorful journey that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.
5. First Word
The First Word cocktail emerges as a frontrunner among the array of Last Word adaptations triggered by the scarcity of Chartreuse in 2022. This exquisite libation showcases a harmonious amalgamation of bitterness, sweetness, and a subtle hint of gin. Notably, it introduces a captivating variation by substituting the trademark Chartreuse element with a delightful fusion of dry vermouth and Aperol.
6. Two-One-Two
Experience the Two-One-Two: a remarkable fusion of simplicity and complexity. This concoction combines the refreshing grapefruit juice with the invigorating Aperol, showcasing its vibrant flavors of orange peel and rhubarb. The Two-One-Two stands out with its radiant appearance and the tangy, crisp notes that dance on your palate.
7. Naked and Famous
The Naked and Famous cocktail incorporates mezcal, yellow Chartreuse, Aperol, and lime juice in equal measures. This delightful libation is a creative variation of the well-known Last Word sour cocktail and even draws inspiration from the Paper Plane. With the addition of a robust smoky mezcal, the herbaceous notes of yellow Chartreuse, and the refreshing tang of lime juice, the Naked and Famous truly embodies a modern classic.
8. Sauvignon Blanc Punch
This Sauvignon Blanc Punch is a delightful beverage that can easily be prepared in large quantities. The base of this drink relies on a crisp and tangy dry sauvignon blanc, ensuring a lower alcohol content. The combination of grapefruit and lemon juices enhances the citrusy and slightly bitter flavors of Aperol, topped of with the refreshing effervescence of club soda. Enjoy this invigorating sauvignon blanc punch that is sure to impress your guests!
9. Toffee Negroni
The Toffee Negroni may deceive you with its name, as it lacks actual toffee. Nevertheless, this libation remains delightfully flavorful and aptly named. This variation of the Negroni showcases distinctive nutty and caramel notes through the harmonious blend of rum and sherry. The addition of Aperol contributes to a well-balanced concoction that pays homage to the classic Negroni while utilizing unique ingredients.
10. Paper Plane
Perhaps the second most famous Aperol cocktail, The Paper Plane is a delightful variation of the classic Last Word cocktail. It’s a captivating equal-parts blend of bourbon, Amaro Nonino, Aperol, and a touch of lemon juice. This modern classic offers a harmonious balance of ingredients that will surely captivate the taste buds of a discerning drinker. Give the Paper Plane a try and experience a delightful twist on a beloved classic.
11. Montreal
The official cocktail of Montreal is a delightful drink that combines Suze, gin, and locally made rye whisky. A dash of local charm is added, and a touch of flair is introduced with a hint of Aperol, creating a perfectly balanced and flavorful libation.
12. Last Flight
The Last Flight is a clever fusion of the Paper Plane and the Last Word cocktails. This delightful concoction features bourbon, green Chartreuse, Aperol, and fresh lemon juice in equal measures. Perfect for those craving a zesty yet fulfilling libation, the Last Flight promises a refreshing citrus kick with a luxurious flavor.
13. Pre Siesta
Experience the unparalleled Pre Siesta cocktail, a tequila-based masterpiece that exemplifies the ideal harmony of tastes. Indulge in the captivating blend of tangy orange liqueur and enticing bitters, meticulously combined to create this enchanting libation with a mesmerizing salmon-pink hue.
14. Lost Plane
Experience the Lost Plane cocktail, a delightful variation of the beloved Paper Plane favorite. This aperitivo masterpiece highlights the unique tastes of Aperol combined with the smooth hints of dark rum, Amaro Montenegro, and fresh lemon juice.
Discover the full range of Aperol cocktails here.
FAQ
Do you drink Aperol by itself?
It can be enjoyed on its own, over ice, but it’s bittersweet flavor is quite concentrated. It is typically mixed with other ingredients to make cocktails.
Is Aperol the same as Campari?
No, Aperol and Campari are not the same. Aperol is an Italian apéritif with a lower alcohol content (11%) compared to Campari (20-28%). While both are amari, their flavors contrast, with Aperol being sweeter and Campari intensely bitter.