Easy 3 Ingredient Italian Spritz Recipe & Guide

There is no moment more Italian than the aperitivo – that golden hour before dinner when friends gather, conversations flow and glasses clink in celebration of life’s simple pleasures. At the heart of this cherished ritual is the spritz: light, refreshing and beautifully bittersweet.

Join us as we explore 5 beloved Italian spritz cocktails – complete with recipes – that bring a true taste of Italy to your glass!

Different Types Of Italian Spritz

From the iconic Aperol Spritz of Venice to the floral charm of the Hugo, each variation tells a story of place and tradition.

In Italy, the word spritz is more than just a drink – it’s a ritual. Originating in the Veneto region, the spritz began as a simple mix of white wine and soda water. Over time, it evolved into the vibrant, bittersweet cocktails we know today, each one reflecting the character of its region and the spirit of Italian aperitivo culture.

There’s a spritz for every taste: the bright and easygoing Aperol, the bold bitterness of Campari, the refined Select from Venice, the floral Hugo from the north, and the zesty Limoncello of the south. 

What is the most popular spritz in Italy?

Without a doubt, the Aperol Spritz reigns supreme – not only in Italy but around the world. Its vibrant orange hue, balanced flavour and refreshing fizz have made it the go-to drink for millions, especially when dining al fresco during the warm summer months.

1. Aperol Spritz Recipe

Bright, bittersweet and beloved across Italy. The Aperol Spritz is the go-to aperitivo.

Recipe:

• 3 parts Prosecco
• 2 parts Aperol
• 1 part soda water
• Serve over ice in a large wine glass
• Garnish with an orange slice

2. Campari Spritz Recipe

For those who like a stronger, more bitter edge, the Campari Spritz is vibrant and sophisticated.

Recipe:

• 3 parts Prosecco
• 2 parts Campari
• 1 part soda water
• Serve over ice in a wine glass or tumbler
• Garnish with an orange wedge or twist

3. Select Spritz Recipe

Hailing from Venice, Select was the original spritz ingredient before Aperol took the spotlight.

Recipe:

• 3 parts Prosecco
• 2 parts Select Aperitivo
• 1 part soda water
• Serve over ice in a wine glass
• Garnish with a green olive for a true Venetian touch

4. Hugo Spritz Recipe

A delicate and refreshing spritz from the South Tyrol region, perfect for summer sipping.

Recipe:

• 3 parts Prosecco
• 2 parts elderflower syrup (or St-Germain)
• 1 part soda water
• Serve over ice in a wine glass
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a lime slice

5. Limoncello Spritz Recipe

A southern Italian twist on the spritz, bursting with the zest of lemons from the Amalfi Coast.

Recipe:

• 2 parts Prosecco
• 1.5 parts Limoncello 
• 1 part soda water
• Serve over ice in a wine glass
• Garnish with a lemon wheel and a sprig of basil or mint

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Italian Spritz

What alcohol is in Italian spritz?

An Italian spritz typically contains a combination of Prosecco (a dry sparkling wine), a bitter or herbal liqueur (such as Aperol, Campari, Select or Limoncello), and a splash of soda water. The liqueur gives each spritz its distinctive flavour and colour.

What to serve with an Italian spritz?

Spritz is made to be enjoyed with food – it’s the heart of the aperitivo tradition. Light, salty snacks pair best: think olives, crispy focaccia, Italian cured meats, cheese. At San Carlo, we recommend enjoying your spritz with a traditional Italian charcuterie board a selection of classic cicchetti – small Italian plates perfect for sharing.

Is Aperol Spritz Italian?

Yes – the Aperol Spritz is 100% Italian. Aperol was created in Padua in 1919 and the now famous spritz recipe became widely popular in northern Italy before gaining international fame. Today, it’s considered a symbol of the Italian aperitivo.

How to say Aperol Spritz in Italian?

It’s said just as it looks: “Aperol Spritz” – though Italians often shorten it to just “uno Spritz” when ordering at the bar, especially in the north. For example: “Prendo uno Spritz, grazie.” 

At San Carlo, we celebrate the art of the aperitivo – so next time you dine with us, raise your glass and toast the Italian way: cin cin!