The Venetian Spritz is a wine-based cocktail, an icon of the Italian aperitivo, celebrated for its fascinating history and distinctive flavor profile. Originating in the Veneto region of Italy, this cocktail is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, embodying the lively and convivial spirit of Venice.
Its history is rooted in the 19th century, during the Austrian occupation of northern Italy. Austrian officers, accustomed to local wines being too strong for their taste, diluted the wine with sparkling water, thus creating a lighter, more refreshing drink, to which a touch of bitter was added to balance the sweetness of the wine. This practice gave rise to the Spritz, a term derived from the German “spritzen,” meaning “to splash.”
The Venetian Spritz Spritz: Authentic taste
The flavor profile of the Venetian Spritz is unique and eclectic. Danzante’s Prosecco wine base imparts a light effervescence and fruity notes, while Aperol or Campari add a distinctive bitterness, balanced by a touch of sweetness. The addition of sparkling water completes the picture, lending freshness and lightness to the drink. High-quality wines are essential for cocktails to achieve a perfect balance in flavors. What makes the Venetian Spritz so special is the overall experience it offers. It is more than just a cocktail with wine – it is an invitation to slow down and enjoy the moment, immersed in the lively atmosphere of a Venetian piazza or traditional bar. Its popularity has spread beyond Italian borders, becoming an international symbol of the art of the aperitivo and of Italian conviviality.
Unlocking the Secrets of Venetian Spritz Ingredients
To make a Venetian Spritz, you will need:
- Danzante Prosecco
- Aperol or Campari
- Sparkling water
- A slice of orange
- Ice
These ingredients work together in harmony to create the distinctive flavor profile of the Venetian Spritz. Danzante Prosecco DOC gives fruity notes and a pleasant effervescence, while the Aperol or Campari adds a touch of bitterness and a slight sweetness. Sparkling water completes the picture, lending freshness and lightness to the drink. Finally, the orange slice adds a citrus note that balances the whole, creating an omitted delicious cocktail, perfect for the aperitif.
How to make Prosecco Aperitifs at Home
The Venetian Spritz is the ideal companion for an aperitif because of its lightness, freshness and balance of flavors. The aperitivo is a real tradition in Italy and consists of a drink accompanied by a small appetizer, very similar to the American ‘happy hour’.
To pair the Venetian Spritz during an aperitivo, you can opt for a selection of light and tasty appetizers. Fresh cheeses and cured meats, marinated olives, crostini with pate or sauces, and crunchy vegetables are just a few of the options for food to pair with wine, that goes well with the flavor profile of the Spritz.
In summary, the Venetian Spritz is the epitome of the Italian aperitivo, ideal for stimulating the appetite, socializing, and cooling off during hot summer days. With its versatility and unique flavor profile, it is the perfect choice for a moment of relaxation and conviviality with anyone you love.
By carefully following this Venetian Spritz recipe, you will be able to prepare a perfectly balanced and delicious wine-based cocktail, ready to be enjoyed with friends and family. Cheers!
Venetian Spritz Recipe
This is how you prepare the perfect Venetian Spritz:
ingredients
- Danzante Prosecco – 90 ml
- Aperol or Campari – 60 ml
- Sparkling water – 30 ml
- A slice of orange
- Ice
directions
- Cool the glass: Fill it generously with ice to ensure that your Spritz stays cool throughout your drinking.
- Pour the Prosecco: Add 90 ml of Danzante Prosecco to the chilled glass. This will form the base of your cocktail and impart a pleasant effervescence.
- Add the Aperol or Campari: Pour 60 ml of Aperol or Campari into the glass on top of the Prosecco. This will add the characteristic orange color and distinctive bitterness to the Spritz.
- Add sparkling water: Fill the glass by adding 30 ml of sparkling water. This will help dilute the cocktail slightly and impart freshness.
- Stir gently: Use a long teaspoon to gently stir the ingredients in the glass. This will help you blend the flavors evenly without compromising the effervescence of the Prosecco.
- Garnish with an orange slice: Add an orange slice to the glass to decorate and add a touch of citrusy freshness.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve your Venetian Spritz immediately and enjoy the unique sensory experience it offers.