Spritz
Aperitivo bitter, sparkling wine, splash of soda. Italian afternoon ritual.
Defining structure
A spritz is a long, lightly alcoholic drink built on a bitter aperitivo (Aperol, Campari, Select, Cynar), sparkling wine (Prosecco), and a splash of soda water — typically 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts aperitivo, 1 part soda, built over ice in a wine glass with a generous orange garnish. The low alcohol (around 10% ABV) and pronounced bittersweetness make it ideal for the Italian ritual of aperitivo — the pre-dinner hour of a drink with snacks.
History
The word 'spritz' has Austrian-Italian roots — 19th-century Habsburg soldiers in the Veneto asked for a 'spritzen' (splash) of soda in their local wine, which was too dry for their taste. The modern Aperol Spritz formula emerged in the Veneto in the 20th century and was propelled to global dominance by Campari Group's marketing in the 2010s. Italy now drinks an estimated 7 million Spritzes a day during aperitivo hour.
Classic examples
Common riffs
Swap the aperitivo: Aperol becomes Campari becomes Cynar becomes Select becomes Sfumato (more smoky/bitter). Swap the sparkling wine: Prosecco becomes Champagne becomes Cava becomes Franciacorta. The Kir Royale (crème de cassis and Champagne) is a spritz in aristocratic dress; the Mimosa is a citrus spritz; the Hugo (St-Germain, Prosecco, mint, soda) is a modern floral spritz that has swept Alpine resorts.