A Venetian Classic: The Spritz originated in Venice and is still a favorite drink across Northern Italy.

Aperitivo Tradition: It's a staple of the Italian aperitivo hour, a pre-dinner tradition where friends gather to enjoy drinks and small bites.

Effervescent and Refreshing: The Spritz is typically made with a sparkling wine like Prosecco, giving it that signature fizz and refreshing taste.

Customizable Flavor: Though the classic recipe uses Aperol, you can swap it out for other bitters like Campari for a more intense flavor or Select for a true Venetian Spritz.

Perfectly Balanced: The drink combines sweet, bitter, and bubbly elements, usually in a 3-2-1 ratio: 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts bitter liqueur, and 1 part soda water.

Low Alcohol Content: With its light and refreshing taste, the Spritz has a relatively low alcohol content, making it perfect for sipping leisurely without getting too tipsy.

A Worldwide Favorite: The Spritz has seen a huge resurgence in recent years, becoming a favorite cocktail not just in Italy but around the world.

The Spritz has a story as lively as its bubbles. It all began in the 19th century when the Veneto region of Italy was under the influence of the Austrian Empire. Austrian soldiers, unaccustomed to the strong Italian wines, began diluting them with a splash (or "Spritz" in German) of water to make them lighter and more refreshing. Over time, this simple mix evolved into a beloved Italian cocktail tradition.

By the early 20th century, sparkling wine, like Prosecco, replaced still wine, and a bitter liqueur was added to give the Spritz its signature sweet-bitter flavor. Today, the classic Italian Spritz follows a simple formula: 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts bitter liqueur (like Aperol, Campari, or Select), and 1 part soda water. The result is a perfectly balanced drink that's light, bubbly, and slightly bitter, making it the perfect aperitivo to kick off any gathering.

The beauty of the Spritz is in its versatility. The Prosecco adds a sparkling, crisp base, while the bitter liqueur gives it its distinctive flavor and color. Soda water keeps it light and refreshing, making it easy to enjoy more than one! Garnished with a slice of orange or a green olive, the Spritz is not just a drink; it’s a toast to the Italian way of living – relaxed, flavorful, and full of life.

So whether you're toasting a sunset by the sea or gathering with friends before dinner, the Italian Spritz brings a taste of “la dolce vita” to any moment. Cheers to a cocktail that's stood the test of time, perfecting the art of combining sweet, bitter, and sparkling into one irresistible sip!