Blood Orange Rosé Aperol Spritz
This delightful concoction is a celebration of flavors and a testament to the art of mixology. In this blog post, we’ll take a journey through the components of this exquisite drink, exploring the essence of a spritz, the magic of Aperol, the seasonality of blood oranges, and a guide on how to create a mocktail version.
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Here’s what ingredients and tools you’ll need for this drink:
Aperol
Fresh blood oranges or blood orange juice
Sparkling rosé
Club soda
Cocktail jigger
Spritz glass
Ice
What is a Spritz?
Originating from the Italian “spritzare,” meaning to spray or splash, a spritz is a refreshing and effervescent cocktail typically composed of a bitter liqueur, wine or sparkling water, and citrus. This classic beverage has become a symbol of leisure and relaxation, offering a perfect balance of bitterness, sweetness, and effervescence.
What is Aperol?
At the heart of the Blood Orange Rosé Aperol Spritz is Aperol, a bright orange-hued Italian aperitif. Infused with a secret blend of herbs and botanicals, Aperol exudes a unique flavor profile characterized by orange zest, rhubarb, and a hint of bitterness. Its low alcohol content makes it ideal for day-drinking, contributing to the light and refreshing nature of the spritz.
When Are Blood Oranges in Season?
The star of this spritz is undoubtedly the blood orange, a citrus gem known for its deep red flesh and distinctive sweet-tart flavor. Blood oranges are typically in season from December to April, making them a winter to early spring delicacy. Harnessing the peak freshness of blood oranges enhances the vibrancy and complexity of the Aperol Spritz, creating a drink that embodies the essence of the season.
How to Juice Fresh Blood Oranges
To capture the true essence of the blood orange, it’s essential to use freshly squeezed juice. Begin by selecting ripe blood oranges—look for a firm texture and vibrant color. Cut the oranges in half and use a citrus juicer or reamer to extract the juice. The result is a rich, ruby-red liquid that adds a burst of natural sweetness to your Aperol Spritz.
Can I Use Anything as a Substitute for Aperol?
While Aperol has a distinct flavor, there are alternatives if you find yourself without this Italian aperitif. Campari, a more intense and bitter cousin of Aperol, can be used for a variation with a bold kick. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder substitute, try Select Aperitivo. Experimenting with different bitter liqueurs allows you to tailor the spritz to your taste preferences while maintaining its signature essence.
How to Make it a Mocktail
For those moments when you crave the refreshing experience of a Blood Orange Rosé Aperol Spritz without the alcohol, creating a mocktail version is the perfect solution. Start by selecting a non-alcoholic aperitif as a substitute for Aperol. Look for options that mimic the bitter and herbal notes without the alcohol content. I like Ritual Zero’s Aperitif Alternative.
Additionally, choose a non-alcoholic sparkling rosé like Wolffer Estate Non Alcoholic Spring in A Bottle or omit the rosé entirely. To maintain the effervescence, consider using a splash of sparkling water. Increase the amount of blood orange juice and club soda to achieve the desired balance, resulting in a delightful mocktail that mirrors the original spritz.
You might also like Pomegranate and Blood Orange Rosé Sangria
How To Make A Blood Orange Rosé Aperol Spritz
How To Make A Blood Orange Rosé Aperol Spritz Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 oz Aperol
- 1 oz Blood orange juice freshly squeezed
- 3 oz Sparkling rosé
- 1 oz Club soda
- Ice cubes
- Blood orange slices for garnish
Instructions
- Select ripe blood oranges.
- Cut the oranges in half.
- Squeeze the oranges using a citrus juicer or reamer to extract fresh blood orange juice.
- Fill a wine glass or a large balloon glass with ice cubes.
- Measure and pour 1 oz of Aperol over the ice.
- Pour 1 oz of freshly squeezed blood orange juice into the glass.
- Gently pour 3 oz of sparkling rosé into the mix.
- Complete the concoction by adding 1 oz of club soda for a touch of effervescence.
- Take a stirring spoon and gently mix the ingredients in the glass. Be mindful not to lose the fizz from the sparkling rosé.
- Garnish with slices of blood orange.
The Blood Orange Rosé Aperol Spritz is a celebration of flavors, seasons, and moments of joy. As you embark on crafting this delightful concoction, remember to savor the process and the vibrant ingredients that come together to create a symphony of taste. Whether you opt for the classic version or venture into the world of mocktails, each sip is an invitation to bask in the simple pleasures of life. Cheers to sunshine in a glass!
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