Aperol Spritz

We all know the the classic image of Italians drinking a cocktail on a piazza, right before dinner time. Italy is the country of the aperitivo, or aperitif, a cocktail with just a little alcohol that is usually drunk before dinner, meant to stimulate the appetite. The Aperol Spritz is a combination of prosecco, Aperol and sparkling water. Don't confuse Aperol with Campari (they are made by the same brand). Aperol has a much lower alcohol percentage than Campari (11% vs 25%), and is much less bitter.

How to make the perfect Aperol Spritz:

• Take a longdrink glass or a large round glass on a stem.

• Fill it with ice cubes.

• Fill it 1/3 with Aperol.

• Add sparkling water (for instance, Spa Red).

• Add another 1/3 or prosecco (if necessary with cava).

• Finish with a slice of orange.