How to Make Italian Aperitifs for Your Next Party

When hosting a party, setting the right atmosphere is essential, and nothing does that quite like Italian aperitifs. These delightful pre-meal drinks are perfect for stimulating the palate and getting guests excited about the meal to come. Here’s a guide on how to make some popular Italian aperitifs that will impress your guests and elevate your gathering.

1. Negroni

The classic Negroni is a staple of Italian aperitivo culture. It’s equal parts gin, vermouth rosso, and Campari, served over ice. To make the perfect Negroni:

  • Ingredients: 1 oz gin, 1 oz sweet vermouth, 1 oz Campari, orange slice for garnish
  • Instructions: In a mixing glass, combine gin, vermouth, and Campari. Fill with ice and stir well. Strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice. Garnish with an orange slice.

2. Aperol Spritz

Light, refreshing, and vibrant, the Aperol Spritz is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for warmer months. This beautiful orange drink is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

  • Ingredients: 3 oz Prosecco, 2 oz Aperol, 1 oz soda water, orange slice for garnish
  • Instructions: Fill a wine glass with ice, then pour in Prosecco, followed by Aperol and soda water. Stir gently and garnish with a slice of orange.

3. Negroni Sbagliato

The Negroni Sbagliato is a twist on the classic Negroni, substituting sparkling wine for gin. This makes for a lighter, fizzier alternative.

  • Ingredients: 1 oz Campari, 1 oz sweet vermouth, 1 oz Prosecco, orange twist for garnish
  • Instructions: Combine Campari and vermouth in a glass filled with ice. Top with Prosecco and stir gently. Garnish with an orange twist.

4. Bellini

This fruity favorite hails from Venice and combines the flavors of fresh peaches with sparkling wine. It’s a fantastic choice for a summer party.

  • Ingredients: 2 oz peach puree, 4 oz Prosecco
  • Instructions: In a champagne flute, add the peach puree first, then slowly pour in the Prosecco. Stir gently to combine.

5. Martini Bianco

A sophisticated choice, the Martini Bianco is a sweet white vermouth that can be enjoyed on its own or with a splash of soda for added refreshment.

  • Ingredients: 2 oz Martini Bianco, splash of soda water, lemon twist for garnish
  • Instructions: Pour the Martini Bianco into a glass filled with ice. Top with soda water and garnish with a lemon twist.

6. Spritz Veneziano

This variation of the Spritz, common in Venice, uses Select (a bitter liqueur) instead of Aperol, resulting in a more complex flavor.

  • Ingredients: 3 oz Prosecco, 2 oz Select, 1 oz soda water, green olive for garnish
  • Instructions: Fill a glass with ice, then add Prosecco, Select, and soda water. Stir and garnish with a green olive.

Italian aperitifs are not just about the drinks; they are also a ritual of socializing. Serve them with some light snacks like olives, bruschetta, or cheese platters to enhance the experience. Each sip transports you and your guests to a sun-soaked piazza in Italy, making your party unforgettable.

With these refreshing cocktail recipes, you’re well on your way to hosting an authentic Italian summer gathering. Cheers!