master-cooks | Why Champagne Is Ruining Your Spritz (And What To Use Instead)

Using champagne in a spritz may seem like an indulgent choice, but it can overpower the delicate balance of flavors that make the cocktail refreshing and light. Champagne's complex profile, with its strong notes of yeast and toast, can overshadow the subtle herbal and citrus notes typically found in a spritz. Moreover, the cost of champagne often doesn't justify its use in a mixed drink, where its nuances can get lost among other ingredients. Instead, opting for a more neutral sparkling wine, such as Prosecco or Cava, can enhance the spritz without overwhelming it. Prosecco, for instance, offers a sweeter, fruit-forward profile that complements the bitter liqueur and soda water, maintaining the cocktail's intended crisp and refreshing essence. Cava, with its dry finish and more subtle flavors, can also provide a harmonious blend that allows the other ingredients to shine. By choosing these alternatives, you not only preserve the integrity of the spritz but also enjoy a more balanced and cost-effective beverage. This approach ensures that each component contributes to the overall experience, rather than one dominating the palate.

The rise of the Aperol spritz

Now regarded as a beloved Italian aperitif, the spritz actually has its roots in Austria. Its origins trace back to the early 1800s when Austrian soldiers stationed in northern Italy sought a creative solution to their longing for the beer they enjoyed back home. They began diluting Italian wine with water — and eventually carbonated water — to reduce the alcohol content. The term "spritz" is derived from the German word "spritzen," which translates to "to splash" or "to spray."

Over the years, the spritz has transformed from its simple combination of wine and water to incorporate various ingredients, including liqueurs. The most famous variation is the Aperol spritz, which features the Italian bitters first introduced in 1919. With its vibrant orange hue and a flavor profile that is citrusy, herbal, and slightly bitter, Aperol is mixed with Prosecco and soda water to create a light, crisp, and refreshing cocktail.

To achieve the perfect Aperol spritz, it's essential to carefully consider the order in which you add each ingredient. The ideal method for pouring an Aperol spritz to ensure the best taste is to start with the sparkling wine and soda water, finishing with the denser, heavier Aperol.

Why Champagne Is Ruining Your Spritz (And What To Use Instead)

The rise of the Aperol spritz

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