5 Aperol cocktails than aren't an Aperol Spritz

Aperol spritz is the most popular cocktail that comes to mind when thinking of the classic Italian apertif. It is a refreshing and easy to make drink that can be enjoyed any time of year.

Aperol spritz is made with just a few ingredients and can be made with either sparkling or still water. The drink is typically served in a tall glass with ice and a slice of orange or lemon for added flavour and fragrance.

Since its invention in 1919, Aperol has become synonymous with the art of mixed drink making. The Liqueur Aperol is an easy mix that can be enjoyed with just about any spirit, and because it's relatively low in alcohol it makes for a refreshing sipper or mixer.

I have recently however come to discover there's a whole lot more one can do with some Aperol and a creative imagination. From an kombucha punch to the classic Negroni, theres a whole world of Aperol cocktails waiting to be discovered and if you're like most people who love this classic Mediterranean aperitif you're sure to enjoy our list below. 

 

1. The Ten Spot

Starting you off with something easy the Ten Spot is a super popular citrus cocktail that certainly brings the party. Served in a flute and best drunk expertly chilled.

The Ten Spot is made with Aperol, gin, lime juice and grapefruit juice. It is a very simple cocktail to make and just as quick to enjoy.

Best served chilled and with a bit of zing, The Ten Spot is perfect for any celebratory occasion where you want a champagne glass without the bubbles.

Ingredients

45mL Aperol 

45mL gin

45mL grapefruit juice

45mL lime juice

Stir ingredients over ice and strain into a champagne flute or collins glass. 

 

2. Aperol Kombucha Punch 

The Aperol Kombucha Punch is the perfect party pleaser. Intended to be made in batch or on the fly if you refine the measurements, the Aperol Kombucha Punch is a refreshing and easy to make cocktail that can be made with just a few ingredients.

The recipe calls for your choice of spirit (we recommend gin, tequila, or mezcal), Aperol, kombucha, soda water and some oranges. The result is a light and fruity cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a small get-together or planning an elaborate party, the Aperol Kombucha Punch will be the perfect choice.

Ingredients

350mL soda water

2 oranges (any citrus) thinly sliced to garnish

Method

To create a fruity and bubbly cocktail, combine your chosen spirit with Aperol and kombucha in a large pitcher or glass jar. Stir well to combine the flavours.

3. Aperol Cosmopolitan

The Aperol Cosmo is a twist on the classic. It is made with Aperol instead of cranberry juice and is served cold with a fruity taste. It's a refreshing take on the classic Comso and perfect for a summer evening with friends.

Ingredients

lime twist to garnish

Method 

Add your vodka, Aperol and lime juice into a shaker over ice. Shake for 20 seconds.

Strain your ingredients into a small coupe or martini glass and garnish with your lime twist

 

4. Paper Plane Cocktail

The Paper Plane cocktail is a new drink that originated in 2008. It was inspired by another equal parts drink called the Last Word and got its name from M.I.A.'s hit song, "Paper plane."

The cocktail is now considered a classic, and like the song it packs a punch.

Ingredients

Method 

Combine your equal part of amaro, Aperol, bourbon, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker.

Fill with ice and shake vigorously, about 20 seconds. Strain into 2 coupe/flute glasses and enjoy with a friend.

 

5. Aperol Mist

This extra bitter citrus cocktail is as refreshing as it sounds. Perfect for an afternoon barbie and leaving the Shandy in the dust. The Aperol Mist has the perfect combination to even knock the Aperol Spritz off its summer staple pedestal. 

Ingredients

Method 

Add your Aperol and lemon juice to a collins glass over fresh ice. Top with your beer and stir.

Garnish with a lemon peel and enjoy responsibly.

 

Whilst the Aperol Spritz deserves its place card as a legendary classic on the cocktail hall of fame there really is so much more one can do with this signature Italian aperitif.

Perfect for summer yet it also translates for some amazing cold month cocktails that are both easy to make and easy to enjoy.