If you're looking for a refreshing drink to enjoy on a sunny afternoon or before dinner, look no further than the classic spritz. This Italian cocktail has been gaining popularity in recent years, and for a good reason – it's the perfect aperitif cocktail for any occasion. Thankfully, for those of us who prefer cocktails without the booze, Ritual Aperitif Alternative has got us covered.
Typically, spritzes include a base of sparkling wine or Prosecco, a splash of bitter liqueur such as Aperol, and a dash of soda water. With Ritual Aperitif Alternative, you can have the same refreshing and bittersweet cocktail without the alcohol or hangover.
One thing that makes spritzes stand out is their versatility. You can customize your spritz to your personal taste by adjusting the ratios of the ingredients. If you prefer it more bitter, add extra Ritual Aperitif Alternative. Or you can experiment with different types of sparkling wine or Prosecco to create different flavor profiles and variations of no and low-alcohol spritzes.
So what’s an aperitif, anyway?
This key ingredient has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century. The word "aperitif" is derived from the Latin word "aperire," which means "to open." Aperitifs were originally created as a way to stimulate the appetite before a meal.
The first known aperitif was vermouth, a fortified wine that was created in the late 18th century in Italy. Originally used as a medicine, it soon became popular as an aperitif. Vermouth is made by adding a mixture of herbs and spices to a base wine, such as white wine or red wine, and then fortifying it with brandy or other spirits.
In the 19th century, other aperitifs began to gain popularity, including Campari and Aperol. But it wasn’t until the 20th century that aperitif popularity began to explode, and they continue to be popular pre-dinner drinks today.
The tradition of drinking an aperitif before a meal is still popular in Italy and other parts of Europe, and it is seen as a way to stimulate the appetite and prepare the body for a meal.
The story behind the spritz
The spritz also has a rich history and can be traced back to the 19th century in northern Italy, specifically in the Veneto region. At that time, Venetians, especially those in the working class, found the local wines to be too strong and harsh. As a solution, they began to add a splash of water to their wine to dilute it, which became known as “spritz” due to the fizzy sound of the added water. Love that sound. Anyway…
As time went on, the spritz evolved into a more complex cocktail with various combinations of spirits, wine, water, and bitters. One of the earliest versions of the modern spritz is believed to have been made with Select Aperitivo, a bitter liqueur, and white wine that was served with a slice of orange.
During the early 20th century, the popularity of the spritz grew, and it became a staple of Venetian culture. In fact, it was so popular that the city even began to regulate the recipe to ensure consistency across all bars and restaurants. Today, the spritz has become a beloved cocktail worldwide, and variations can be found all over the globe.
How to make a Ritual Spritz
The non-alcoholic Ritual Spritz is super easy to make. Here’s what you’ll need:
1 1/2 oz. Ritual Aperitif Alternative
2 1/2 oz. soda and/or prosecco
In a glass with ice, add Ritual Aperitif Alternative. Top with prosecco and soda water. Viola! It’s that simple. However, if you’re looking for a low-alcohol version, use regular prosecco and keep our Aperitif Alternative instead of other aperitifs. Additionally, don’t be afraid to get creative with the garnish. Your non-alcoholic spritz should reflect your taste!
What about an Aperol Spritz?
We’ve all heard the name. But what exactly is it? Aperol spritz is a specific type of spritz. While a spritz can be made with a variety of bitter liqueurs, the Aperol spritz is made with Aperol, a bright orange-hued Italian bitter liqueur that was first produced in 1919.
The Aperol spritz has become a popular drink all over the world. However, a spritz can be made with various other bitter ingredients and may include different types of wine or soda water. Our Aperitif Alternative is perfect for a zero alcohol and calorie, low sugar and carb version, so you can enjoy all summer long.
Why spritzes are great for summer
Spritzes are the quintessential summer cocktail. There are a few reasons why they are so perfect for the warmer months.
Firstly, spritzes are typically served over ice, making them incredibly refreshing on a hot summer day. The addition of soda water to the mix also gives the cocktail a bit of fizz, adding to its refreshing qualities.
Secondly, spritzes are often made with light, fruity flavors that are perfect for summertime sipping. Adding fruit juices, liqueurs, and garnishes can give the cocktail a bright and tropical feel, evoking images of lounging on a beach or by a pool.
Lastly, our spritz is low or no alcohol, which makes it perfect for leisurely summer afternoons. They can be sipped all day, allowing drinkers to fully enjoy the flavors and atmosphere of the season without feeling the side effects of alcohol.
The spritz has become a symbol of summer, with many people enjoying it as a refreshing cocktail on hot days. Its versatility and simplicity make it a go-to cocktail for bartenders and home mixologists alike, and its rich history and cultural significance make it an essential part of cocktail culture.
