The spritz cocktail is one of the simplest yet most refreshing libations around. With a recipe that can be as easy as three parts sparkling wine, two parts aperitif, one part club soda, and garnished with whatever citrusy fruit you have handy. No shaking. No stirring. Just pour, sip, and enjoy!
1220 Flora (4 Hands) ($35): Local Distillery 1220, the spirits arm of 4 Hands Brewing, created this unique aperitif utilizing mostly local botanicals. Its bright, citrus-forward palate balances the bitter components, thus creating a botanical complexity that sets it apart from traditional European aperitifs.
Cappelletti ($22): Often called “the original Americano,” this Italian all-natural aperitivo from Trento is wine-based, as opposed to neutral grain spirit-based. This distinction allows for a fuller mouth-feel and more robust notes of bittersweet orange which makes for a more flavorful spritz.
Mazzura ($22): This Trento Italian aperitivo is characterized by hints of bitter orange, aromatic herbs, and spices. All-natural and wine-based, as opposed to neutral grain spirit, its bold character makes it a versatile ingredient in cocktails such as the spritz, but it also plays nicely in Negronis and its whiskey sibling the Boulevardier.
Faccia Brutto-Aperitivo ($34): Born in Brooklyn, New York, this aperitivo is a modern take on Italian classics. Emphasizing fresh, high-quality ingredients, it has vibrant citrus notes and a pleasant bitterness from gentian root (bittering agent) and cinchona bark (bittering agent). This creates a less cloying, more nuanced flavor profile than other offerings.
Contratto-Aperitif ($34): From Italy’s Piedmont region, this aperitif features an intricate balance of citrus, herbs, and spices. In addition, it has a slightly floral and fruity undertone, which lends itself to a milder bitterness, making this aperitif unique in a category replete with bitter herbs and spices.
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Contratto-Bitter ($34): A sibling to the Contratto aperitif, the Contratto bitter is a much more intense expression. It showcases a complex bitterness with underlying notes of orange and rhubarb. Its deep earthiness and bold fruitiness make it ideal for more full-flavored spritzes.
Liquore delle Sirene ($35): Translating to “Liqueur of the Sirens,” this aperitivo is crafted with botanicals gathered from the shores of Lake Garda in Northern Italy. With a distinct minerality and a refreshing, slightly bitter finish, Sirene is a well-crafted example of terroir in spirits.
Meletti ($23): An Italian classic from the Marche region, Meletti is a crushable aperitivo. Hints of sweet orange and spices results in a gentle bitterness that balances the sweeter notes. Its long history and traditional recipe contribute to its distinctive, easy-going profile.
Mommenpop Blood Orange Aperitif ($33): Hailing from California, this aperitif is recognized for its vibrant, all-natural fruit flavors. It prominently features the sweet and tangy notes of blood orange balanced by the subtle bitterness from gentian root (bittering agent). This unique and refreshing take on the traditional aperitif is a fun option for a more adventurous spritz.
Bonal Gentiane Quina Aperitif ($20): This French aperitif is inspired by the long history of French digestifs. Its distinct earthy and bitter profile is complemented by a juicy sweetness and a subtle herbaceousness, making it an uncommon but no less delicious choice for a refreshing spritz.
My Favorite Spritz
The spritz cocktail dates back to the late 1800s, but it was popularized during World War I, when Austrian soldiers found the Italian liqueurs too bitter for their palates, so they added the ‘spritz,’ or soda siphon, to dilute. While the spritz is one of the simplest of cocktails—with three parts sparkling wine, two parts spirit, and one part soda—it can be fun to mix and match some of the ingredients. Below is one of my personal favorite combinations. One part France, one part America, and one part Italy, this internationally inspired spritz is perfect for the patio or porch on a beautiful summer day.
Il Terzo
- 1 oz. 1220 Flora
- 1 oz. Bonal Gentiane Quina aperitif
- 1 oz. sparkling Water (club soda)
- 3 oz. Prosecco
- Orange slice
INSTRUCTIONS
- Add all ingredients to a wine glass.
- Quick stir to combine.
- Sip, and enjoy!
1 part France, 1 part America, 1 part Italy. This international Spritz is perfect for your back patio or front porch on a beautiful afternoon.
