Make a Refreshing Aperol Spritz Cocktail Without Prosecco

Aperol Spritz Cocktail Without Prosecco

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t actually need a single drop of prosecco to put together an Aperol Spritz cocktail. Fashioning Aperol Spritz without prosecco is not only easy, but in no way results in a diluted version of the original.

In fact, there are many who swear by this prosecco-free variant. A point of contention we won’t be going into right now. I’m personally a big fan of both!

Getting down to business, here are the basics of what you will need to put together an Aperol Spritz without prosecco:

Prosecco Substitute for Aperol Spritz Cocktail

By now, you’ve probably figured it out. Yes, we’re basically substituting prosecco for white wine and fizzy water.

Depending on the type of wine you use and your preferred quantities, you can come up with something that tastes almost identical to the original Aperol Spritz.

Alternatively, you can create a cocktail that tastes absolutely nothing like the original. This open-to-interpretation recipe is for those like me—you enjoy experimenting in the kitchen and cocktail cabinet.

What Else Can I Do with Aperol?

The funny thing about Aperol is how despite its Biblical popularity worldwide, most people have no idea what to do with it. Some Aperol-addicts are familiar with the basic Aperol Spritz formula, but that’s about it.

Knowing how to put a bitter orange liqueur to good use isn’t easy. It’s certainly not as easy as vodka to Bailey’s. They can be tossed in or on just about anything.

Options may seem limited at first, but Aperol can actually be a surprisingly versatile substance.

Its bittersweet characteristics pair perfectly with so many things—a few of my own favourites being as follows:

Champagne

Yes, I know. Aperol and champagne doesn’t stray too far from the traditional Aperol Spritz formula. Unless you push the limits with a seriously world-class bottle of champagne. You could, of course, leave out the soda water entirely. Just a dash of Aperol in your favourite champagne can add just the right amount of bittersweetness, while creating a colorful hue that’s no less than beautiful.

Grapefruit

The bittersweet flavors of Aperol pair perfectly with the equally bittersweet flavors of grapefruit. In fact, there is no fruit flavor that’s more appropriate for mixing with Aperol. The two really are peas from the same pod: beautifully colored, delightfully zingy and refreshing. Want to impress, but don’t have enough time to make a big effort? Combine Aperol with grapefruit soda. It’s the quickest and easiest cocktail ever.

Ginger Beer

Quite often, things that sound pretty awful on paper add up to something quite special in the real world. Hence, try not to be too confused by the notion of combining Aperol with ginger beer. The combination really shouldn’t work, but there’s something about the spicy and aromatic qualities of ginger beer. It pairs beautifully with bittersweet Aperol. I personally prefer opting for a sweeter ginger beer than a spicy version. But both have plenty of points of appeal.

Vanilla Coke

The same also applies with Vanilla Coke. Again, it would probably be the last thing on your list to blend with Aperol. Classic Coke and Aperol is always a hit. The added vanilla flavor that underpins the whole thing brings a mind-blowing creaminess and richness into the mix. How on earth can sweet, sour, zesty, creamy and herbal flavors all work together? I have absolutely no idea, but they do.

Red Wine and Rose

Last up, I have to admit I’m personally not quite as convinced about this one as my wife seems to be. In any case, she swears by switching out the classic white wine or fizz with something from the pink or red end of the spectrum. I’ve tried it. I can appreciate its completely unique nuances. I’m also always up for an experiment. It’s just not something I’ve taken a shine to yet…maybe it’s an acquired taste that takes time!

Expert Tips for Aperol Spritz Cocktail Without Prosecco

Rounding things off, two important pointers.

Firstly, don’t make the mistake of leaving the ice cubes out of the mix.

Even if the idea of pouring wine over ice seems like sacrilege. It actually plays an important role with Aperol Spritz cocktails. It has a cooling and slightly diluting effect on the drink. Both of which benefit its flavor.

Secondly, don’t make the mistake of simply selecting wines (sparkling or otherwise) at random.

For me, the only wines to enjoy with Aperol are dry wines – or at least semi-dry. Even if you normally enjoy sweet wines, they can result in a cocktail that’s a little too sickly.

At least, to my liking. Feel free to go with what works for you!

Lastly, make sure you’re serving your cocktails in wine glasses to show off its colour and control the portions.