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Aperol Mezcal Spritz Recipe

Aperol Mezcal Spritz Recipe

By What’s Baking

A smoky, bittersweet effervescent cocktail that balances the earthy complexity of mezcal with Aperol's citrus-herbal notes and refreshing prosecco bubbles.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
3 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
A crystal wine glass captures the vibrant coral-orange Aperol Mezcal Spritz against soft late-afternoon sunlight. The cocktail's striking layers show the prosecco's effervescence rising through the rich orange-hued base, with delicate smoke wisps hovering above. A perfectly-cut orange wheel rests on the rim, while a sprig of fresh rosemary stands tall, creating aromatic dimension. Droplets of condensation cling to the outside of the glass, suggesting refreshing coldness, while artisanal ice cubes create prismatic reflections. The backdrop features blurred terracotta pottery and Mediterranean-inspired tableware, enhancing the spritz's Italian heritage with a Mexican twist.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">45ml Aperol</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">30ml mezcal (Espadin variety recommended)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">90ml prosecco</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">30ml soda water</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Orange wheel for garnish</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Sprig of rosemary for garnish</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Ice cubes</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Wine glass or large balloon glass</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Jigger or measuring device</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Bar spoon</li></ul>
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Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Fill your wine glass or balloon glass about halfway with large ice cubes. Using quality ice is important as it melts slower, preventing your spritz from becoming too diluted.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Pour 45ml of Aperol over the ice. The Aperol should coat the ice cubes completely, creating a foundation of bittersweet orange flavor.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Add 30ml of mezcal to the glass. Pour it slowly over a bar spoon to create a gentle layering effect. Choose a young Espadin mezcal for balanced smokiness that won't overpower the Aperol.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Gently pour 90ml of chilled prosecco into the glass. Pour along the inside of the glass to preserve the bubbles - you'll see the cocktail transform to a beautiful coral-orange color.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Top with 30ml of soda water to add lightness and effervescence. The ratio of prosecco to soda is crucial for balanced flavor and the perfect amount of bubbles.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Gently stir once or twice with a bar spoon to integrate the ingredients without losing carbonation. You want the drink to have some natural layering while still being cohesive.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Garnish with an orange wheel placed on the rim of the glass. Add a sprig of rosemary - slightly bruise it between your fingers first to release the aromatic oils that complement the smokiness of the mezcal.</li></ol>

Chef’s Notes

A few helpful details for making this recipe.

Can I substitute mezcal with another spirit in this smoky spritz?

Yes, you can substitute mezcal with tequila for a milder agave profile, or with a smoky whisky like Islay Scotch to maintain the smokiness. Each alternative will create a different character while maintaining the spritz's refreshing nature, though mezcal provides the most authentic balance of earthiness and smoke.

What's the best type of mezcal to use for a sophisticated spritz cocktail?

For a balanced spritz, choose a young Espadin mezcal which offers gentle smokiness without overwhelming the other ingredients. Avoid heavily aged or extremely smoky varieties like Tobala or Tepextate. Look for mezcals described as "citrusy" or "floral" with moderate smoke for perfect harmony.

Why does this spritz recipe call for both prosecco and soda water?

The combination of prosecco and soda water creates the perfect effervescence while balancing the drink's alcoholic strength. Prosecco provides fruity notes and fine bubbles, while soda water lightens the overall mouthfeel and alcohol content, creating a more refreshing, sessionable cocktail without diluting the complex flavours.

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