Cocktails
Copycat Aperol Spritz (Australian Recipe)
An Aperol Spritz is 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol and 1 part soda water, built over ice in a wine glass and garnished with an orange slice. It takes a few minutes and has roughly 147 kcal and 8% ABV per drink.
An Aperol Spritz with Prosecco, Aperol and soda water in a 3:2:1 ratio, served over ice with orange.
Recipe reviewed 29 Sep 2026. How we test recipes.
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WHAT YOU NEED
Ingredients
METHOD
How to make it
Step 1: Prep Your Glass
Start by filling a large wine glass or balloon glass with plenty of ice. The more ice, the colder and more refreshing your Aperol Spritz will be.
Step 2: Pour the Prosecco
Pour 3 parts Prosecco over the ice. If you're using a measuring jigger, this typically translates to about 90ml of Prosecco. The sparkling wine should reach just below the halfway mark of your glass.
Step 3: Add the Aperol
Next, add 2 parts Aperol (around 60ml if you're measuring). Pour it in gently to maintain the bubbles from the Prosecco.
Step 4: Top with Soda Water
Finish the drink with a splash of soda water (approximately 30ml). This adds just enough fizz to balance the cocktail.
Step 5: Stir and Garnish
Give the drink a gentle stir to mix all the ingredients without losing too much enthusiasm. Finally, garnish with a slice of orange. The bright citrus not only looks appealing but also enhances the flavor profile.
Recipe notes
Use Quality Ingredients
The quality of your Prosecco and Aperol makes a big difference. Choose a good dry Prosecco and ensure your Aperol is fresh to achieve the best taste.
Keep Everything Chilled
Customize Your Garnish
Balance the Sweetness
Serve Immediately
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More in this article 4 sections
Aperol Spritz (Australia Recipe)
Aperol Spritz is a popular cocktail that originated in Italy. It's typically made with Aperol (an Italian aperitif), Prosecco (Italian sparkling wine), soda water, and garnished with an orange slice.
Tips for the Perfect Aperol Spritz
Keep Everything Chilled
Make sure your Prosecco, Aperol, and soda water are well-chilled before you start. This helps keep the drink refreshing even on the hottest Australian days.
Customize Your Garnish
While an orange slice is classic, you can get creative with your garnishes. Try adding a sprig of mint for an extra refreshing touch or a dash of bitters for a slight twist.
Balance the Sweetness
If you find the Aperol a bit too sweet, adjust the ratio of soda water to Prosecco to suit your taste. Some people prefer a bit more soda to tone down the sweetness.
Serve Immediately
Aperol Spritz is best served immediately after mixing, while it's still bubbly and fresh. If you're making it for a group, prepare each glass individually rather than in a large batch to maintain the perfect balance of flavors.
What to serve with
An Aperol Spritz suits light, salty aperitivo food: prosciutto and melon, olives and roasted nuts, or tomato bruschetta. For a meal, keep to simple Italian dishes such as a Margherita pizza or a lemony seafood pasta.
Ingredients Substitutes
Creating the perfect Aperol Spritz is all about balance, but sometimes you might need to improvise with substitutes. Whether you're out of a key ingredient or looking to try a twist on the classic recipe, here are some excellent alternatives for Prosecco, Aperol, and soda water that still deliver a delicious and refreshing cocktail.
Prosecco Substitutes
Champagne
Champagne is an excellent substitute for Prosecco if you want a more luxurious alternative. It brings a similar level of enthusiasm and dryness. Since Champagne is usually more robust in flavor, you might want to use a slightly smaller amount to ensure the Aperol still shines through.
Adjustment: Use 2.5 parts Champagne instead of 3 parts Prosecco.
Cava
Cava, a Spanish sparkling wine, is another excellent substitute. Like Prosecco, it tends to be dry, and its clean, crisp taste pairs well with Aperol.
Adjustment: Use equal parts Cava as you would Prosecco.
Sparkling Rosé
For a fun twist, try using a sparkling rosé. It adds a slight berry flavor and a lovely pink hue to your cocktail, making it visually striking.
Adjustment: Use equal parts sparkling rosé as you would Prosecco.
Aperol Substitutes
Campari
Campari is a close relative to Aperol but has a more intense bitter flavor. It's darker and packs a punch, so you'll want to use it sparingly. Campari can make your spritz slightly more robust and bitter.
Adjustment: Use 1.5 parts Campari instead of 2 parts Aperol.
Select Aperitivo
Select Aperitivo, another Italian aperitif, offers a balance between Campari's bitterness and Aperol's sweetness. It's less common but worth seeking out for a nuanced flavor.
Adjustment: Use equal parts Select Aperitivo as you would Aperol.
Contratto Aperitivo
Contratto Aperitivo is a less bitter, slightly sweeter alternative to Aperol. It's made with a blend of herbs and spices, providing a complex flavor profile.
Adjustment: Use equal parts Contratto Aperitivo as you would Aperol.
Soda Water Substitutes
Tonic Water
Tonic water can add an exciting twist with its slightly bitter and sweet flavor. It complements the bitterness of the aperitif and brings an extra layer of complexity to your spritz.
Adjustment: Use equal parts tonic water as you would soda water.
Sparkling Mineral Water
For a similar level of fizz without any additional flavor, sparkling mineral water is a great replacement. It's crisp and refreshing, maintaining the lightness of the cocktail.
Adjustment: Use equal parts sparkling mineral water as you would soda water.
Club Soda
Club soda is the most straightforward substitute for soda water. It has a neutral flavor and the right amount of carbonation, making it an excellent stand-in.
Adjustment: Use equal parts club soda as you would soda water.
Final Thoughts
With these ingredients, instructions, and tips, you're all set to create a delightful Aperol Spritz that brings a touch of Italian sunshine to your Australian summer.
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