The original Italian aperitivo. One recipe, unchanged since 1919.
Aperol is made from a proprietary blend of bitter orange, gentian, rhubarb, and a mix of herbs and roots that has never been altered since its creation in Padua over a century ago. At 11% ABV it’s one of the lightest spirits on the shelf, which is exactly why the Aperol Spritz became the world’s most ordered cocktail — easy to drink, impossible to mess up, and unmistakably Italian.
If you’re stocking a home bar, hosting a summer party, or looking for a crowd-pleasing bottle that works for everyone from the whiskey drinker to the non-drinker, Aperol belongs in the mix.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Vivid, translucent orange.
Aroma: Fresh citrus peel, rhubarb, and a subtle herbal bitterness.
Palate: Bittersweet with bright orange, gentian, and a clean herbal backbone.
Finish: Light, refreshing, and dry — no cloying sweetness.
How to Serve
Aperol Spritz (classic): 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, 1 splash of soda water. Large ice cube, orange slice. Done.
Aperol Negroni variation: Sub Aperol for Campari for a lighter, more citrus-forward Negroni.
On the rocks: Chilled over ice as a low-ABV sipper before dinner.
What’s the difference between Aperol and Campari? Aperol is lighter in alcohol (11% vs 25%), less bitter, and more citrus-forward. Campari is darker, more intensely bitter, and spirit-forward. Aperol is generally more approachable for first-time aperitivo drinkers.
Is Aperol gluten-free? Yes. Aperol contains no gluten ingredients.
Do I need Prosecco to make an Aperol Spritz? Traditional recipe calls for Prosecco, but any dry sparkling wine works. Cava and Spanish Brut are solid substitutes.
How long does Aperol last once opened? Stored in a cool, dark place with the cap on, an opened bottle stays fresh for 3–6 months. Refrigeration extends this further.
