APEROL SPRIZZZ

Allow all liquid ingredients to cool, then pour them into the bottle.

Add the solid ingredients. Do not exceed the maximum fill level of 720 ml.

Insert an iSi Soda Charger into the wand and screw it onto the bottle until you hear a hissing sound.

Leave the wand attached to the bottle until the foam has settled and the hissing stops.

Serve over ice.

The Aperol Sprizzz puts a fresh spin on the classic aperitif, combining Aperol, white wine, tonic water, water, orange and a sprig of mint. Fruity citrus notes and a touch of sweetness meet the tonic’s pleasantly bitter flavour. The bubbles make the drink fresh and lively, making it ideal for an aperitif served with small savoury bites and carefully chosen nibbles.

Italian aperitivo classics
The Aperol Sprizzz pairs well with the simple bites often served as part of an Italian aperitivo. Olives, grissini, crisp taralli and roasted almonds add savoury flavours and crunch. Small crostini topped with tomatoes, olive oil and basil also complement the drink’s fruity citrus notes. Keep the seasoning light so the tonic’s bitterness and the mint remain distinct.

Cheese and savoury pastries
A selection of mild to medium-flavoured hard cheeses, young pecorino or creamy fresh cheese complements the aperitif without overpowering it. Serve with unsweetened crackers or thin slices of toasted bread. Small puff pastry bites with herbs, Parmesan or olives are another good choice. Very strong blue cheeses can dominate the relatively light drink.

Antipasti and vegetables
Grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, courgettes and aubergines suit its Italian-inspired character. Toss them with a little olive oil, lemon zest and fresh herbs, then serve warm or cold. Marinated artichokes, pickled peppers or a small fennel salad also add variety to the aperitif spread. The vegetables’ subtle acidity echoes the freshness of the drink, while their roasted notes provide a balanced contrast.

Fish and light bites
For a more refined selection of aperitif bites, try smoked trout, marinated anchovies or small prawn bites. Pair them with lemon juice, mild herbs or a light yoghurt cream. The citrus notes of the Aperol Sprizzz complement these ingredients, while the tonic’s bitterness leaves a fresh finish. It is best to avoid rich sauces and strong smoky flavours.

Small dishes to serve with an aperitif
If you’re serving the drink with a light meal rather than just nibbles, try a summery salad with fennel and orange or a herb and vegetable frittata. A thin focaccia topped with rosemary, olives or onions also makes a good match. Keep portions small and seasoning mild: the Aperol Sprizzz already has plenty of flavour and a gentle bitterness from the Aperol and tonic.

To finish
Fresh orange segments, berries or a light lemon cake make a good transition from the aperitif to dessert. Very sweet desserts can make the tonic’s bitterness more pronounced. Serve the Aperol Sprizzz well chilled over ice and garnish it with a slice of orange and a little mint. This brings out its fruity and herbal notes and makes it a fitting drink for a relaxed aperitif.

Recipe and photo: isi.com