The amaro spritz is a refreshing and versatile cocktail that combines the complex, bittersweet notes of amaro with the effervescence of sparkling wine or soda. It originated in Italy as a medicinal elixir created by monks, later evolving into a popular after-dinner digestif. The classic recipe calls for a balance of amaro, sweet vermouth, and sparkling wine, garnished with a fresh orange slice. Experimenting with different amaro and vermouth options is encouraged to achieve your desired flavor profile. If you'd like to learn more about the history and preparation of this beloved Italian beverage, keep reading.
Key Takeaways
- Amaro Spritz is a popular Italian cocktail that combines amaro, a bitter herbal liqueur, with sparkling wine or soda.
- The classic recipe calls for a 2:1:3 ratio of amaro, sweet vermouth, and sparkling wine, such as Prosecco.
- Experimenting with different amaro and vermouth options can create unique flavor profiles, allowing for personal customization.
- The bitter and herbal notes of amaro are balanced by the sweetness of vermouth and the effervescence of sparkling wine.
- Garnishing the Amaro Spritz with a fresh orange slice enhances the citrus aroma and visual appeal of the cocktail.
History
Amaro, the bittersweet Italian herbal liqueur, has long been a staple in the world of aperitifs. Tracing its roots back to the 19th century, amaro was originally concocted by Italian monks as a medicinal elixir. Over time, it evolved into a beloved after-dinner digestif, known for its complex blend of botanicals, herbs, and spices.
The spritz, a refreshing cocktail featuring amaro, has also become a beloved tradition in Italy and beyond. This effervescent drink combines the bitterness of amaro with the lightness of sparkling wine or soda, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Today, amaro spritz has gained global popularity, with bartenders and enthusiasts experimenting with different amaro expressions to craft unique and personalized takes on this classic aperitif.
Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a spritz, amaro remains a beloved and versatile spirit, steeped in rich Italian history and tradition.
Recipe
The Amaro Spritz is a refreshing and bittersweet cocktail that has become a staple in the aperitif hour. Its vibrant orange hue and effervescent nature make it a perfect choice for sipping on a warm afternoon or evening.
The combination of bitter amaro, sweet vermouth, and sparkling wine creates a delightful balance of flavors that's both complex and highly drinkable.
To craft the perfect Amaro Spritz, it's important to use high-quality ingredients and pay attention to the ratios. The bitterness of the amaro is tempered by the sweetness of the vermouth, and the carbonation of the sparkling wine adds a lively and refreshing touch.
Ingredients:
- 2 parts amaro (such as Aperol or Campari)
- 1 part sweet vermouth
- 3 parts sparkling wine (such as Prosecco)
- Orange slice or lemon twist for garnish
Instructions:
In a wine glass filled with ice, combine the amaro and sweet vermouth. Top with the sparkling wine and stir gently to combine. Garnish with an orange slice or lemon twist.
Tips:
When selecting the amaro, consider your personal preference for bitterness. Aperol is a bit more approachable, while Campari offers a more intense bittersweet flavor.
Experiment with different vermouths and sparkling wines to find the combination that best suits your taste. For a more visually appealing presentation, you can also consider using a stemmed glass rather than a wine glass.
Cooking Steps
Fill a wine glass with ice cubes.
Add the amaro, then top it off with Prosecco.
Stir gently with a spoon and garnish with an orange slice.
Step 1. Fill a Wine Glass With Ice
Grab a wine glass and fill it to the brim with ice cubes. You want to create a chilled base for the Amaro Spritz. The cold temperature will help balance the bitterness of the Amaro.
Gently tap the glass to ensure the ice settles and fills the vessel completely. This will provide the ideal environment for the other ingredients to mingle and create the perfect Spritz.
Next, you'll add a generous pour of your chosen Amaro. The bittersweet Italian liqueur is the star of this show, so be sure to use a quality brand that you enjoy.
Splash in just enough to coat the ice, around 2-3 ounces should do the trick. Swirl the glass gently to incorporate the Amaro.
Step 2. Add Amaro
Now that you've created a chilled base with the ice, it's time to add the Amaro. Grab your favorite Amaro, whether it's Campari, Aperol, or a more obscure variety.
Pour about 1.5 to 2 ounces of the Amaro into the wine glass, depending on your taste preferences. The Amaro will bring its signature bitter, herbal, and sometimes citrusy notes to the drink.
Swirl the Amaro gently to incorporate it with the ice. The Amaro's vibrant hue will tint the drink, creating a visually stunning cocktail. Its complex flavors will play off the sparkling wine, providing a delightful contrast of bitterness and effervescence.
Take a sip and savor the interplay of the Amaro's bold character and the wine's crisp, refreshing qualities. This is the foundation of the Amaro Spritz, a cocktail that showcases the versatility and depth of this Italian liqueur.
Step 3. Add Prosecco
After the Amaro has been added, it's time to top off the cocktail with Prosecco.
Gently pour the chilled Prosecco into the glass, filling it about three-quarters of the way up. The sparkling wine will create a delightful effervescence, bringing the drink to life.
Be careful not to overfill, as you don't want the Prosecco to spill over. The final touch is a lemon or orange slice, which will complement the herbal notes of the Amaro and provide a refreshing citrus aroma.
Stir the drink briefly to combine the ingredients. The Amaro Spritz is now complete, ready to be enjoyed.
The balanced blend of bitter, sweet, and bubbly makes for a truly satisfying cocktail. Sip and savor the harmonious flavors that dance on your palate.
Step 4. Stir Gently With a Spoon
With the Prosecco now in place, it's time to give the Amaro Spritz one final stir.
Grab a long spoon and gently incorporate the Prosecco into the amaro. Don't over-stir, as you don't want to lose the carbonation. A few gentle rotations of the spoon are all it takes to marry the flavors.
Once combined, you're ready to serve.
Carefully pour the Amaro Spritz into a chilled wine glass or a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange slice or a sprig of fresh mint, if desired. The key is to let the amaro and Prosecco shine, so resist the urge to overpower the drink with too many extras.
Sip and savor the balance of bitter, sweet, and fizz.
The Amaro Spritz is a refreshing, aperitif-style cocktail perfect for sipping on a warm afternoon or as a palate-cleansing digestif after a meal. Enjoy!
Step 5. Garnish With Orange Slice
To garnish the Amaro Spritz, take a fresh orange and slice a thin wheel from it. Gently place the orange slice on the rim of the glass, letting it hang over the edge.
This vibrant garnish not only adds a pop of color but also infuses the cocktail with the citrusy aroma of the orange. As you sip the Amaro Spritz, the orange slice can be used to express the oils, further enhancing the drink's flavor profile.
The contrast between the bitter, herbal Amaro and the sweet, zesty orange creates a harmonious balance, making the garnish an integral part of the cocktail's presentation and taste experience.
Remember to choose a ripe, juicy orange for the best results. The simple act of garnishing elevates the Amaro Spritz, transforming it into a visually appealing and aromatic delight.
Final Thoughts
The Amaro Spritz is a refreshing and versatile cocktail that's perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize it to suit your taste by experimenting with different types of amaro and adjusting the ratios of the ingredients.
The bitter, herbal notes of the amaro pair beautifully with the effervescence of the sparkling wine, creating a balanced and complex flavor profile.
Whether you're enjoying an Amaro Spritz on a sunny afternoon or sipping one as an aperitif before dinner, it's sure to impress your guests and satisfy your palate.
The vibrant orange slice garnish not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the citrusy aroma of the cocktail.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Typical Garnishes Used in an Amaro Spritz?
Typical garnishes used in a spritz cocktail often include a slice of citrus fruit, such as an orange or lemon, as well as an olive or a green olive garnish. The garnish adds a nice visual element and complements the flavors of the drink.
Can I Use a Different Type of Amaro in the Recipe?
You can certainly use a different type of amaro in the recipe. Amari come in a wide variety of flavors, so feel free to experiment and find the one that suits your taste best.
How Long Can an Amaro Spritz Be Stored Before Serving?
You can store an amaro spritz for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. The carbonation may fade, but the flavor will still be delicious. Enjoy it within a few days for the best taste and fizz.
What Is the Ideal Glassware for an Amaro Spritz?
For an Amaro Spritz, the ideal glassware is a wine or highball glass. You'll want a glass that can accommodate the bubbly ingredients and allow you to fully enjoy the drink's aroma and flavors.
Are There Any Non-Alcoholic Alternatives to the Amaro Spritz?
If you're looking for a non-alcoholic alternative to the Amaro Spritz, you could try a non-alcoholic bitter or aperitif soda. Combine it with club soda, ice, and a citrus twist for a refreshing, alcohol-free version of the classic cocktail.
