Summer Spritz Season
Sunshine, clinking glasses, and that unmistakable orange glow — summer and spritzes go hand in hand. There’s something about the bubbly, bittersweet charm of a spritz that feels like a mini vacation in every sip. And whether you're on a balcony in New York or a seaside piazza in Positano, one thing’s for sure: spritz season is in full swing.
But where did this sparkling ritual begin? What makes a spritz a spritz? And most importantly, how do you serve it like an Italian? Let’s dive into the world of spritzes — with a splash of history, a shake of creativity, and, of course, the perfect glass.
A (Brief) History of the Spritz
The spritz traces its roots to 19th-century Venice, during the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Soldiers stationed in the Veneto region found Italian wines a little too strong for their taste and began “spritzing” them with a splash of water. The name “spritz” comes from the German word spritzen, meaning to spray or splash.
Over time, the simple wine-and-water combo evolved. Italians started adding local bitters like Aperol and Campari, plus prosecco for fizz, giving birth to the modern spritz we know (and obsess over) today.
What Makes a Spritz a Spritz?
At its core, a classic spritz follows a 3-2-1 formula:
- 3 parts prosecco
- 2 parts bitter liqueur (like Aperol or Campari)
- 1 splash of soda water
But that’s just the start. The spritz is a template, a canvas. Want something herbal? Swap in Cynar. Feeling floral? Try elderflower liqueur. The possibilities are endless — as long as it sparkles, it’s a spritz.
The Best Glasses to Serve a Spritz
Let’s be clear: the glass matters. A good spritz is more than just ingredients — it’s presentation, aroma, and that perfect clink.
Luigi Bormioli 27 oz Mixology Gin & Tonic Glass
Big, bold, and beautiful. This glass has the size and shape to hold ice, fruit garnishes, and all the fizzy components of your spritz. Its balloon bowl enhances the citrusy aromas. A must for Aperol devotees.
Luigi Bormioli 20.25 oz Bach Retro Gin Glass
A nod to vintage charm. Its structured cut glass feels glamorous, making it ideal for hosting. It's slightly more compact but still roomy enough for a well-built spritz with flair.
Luigi Bormioli 25.25 oz Optica Large Wine Glass
Clean lines, elegant curves, and a generous bowl — this glass is a modern classic. It’s perfect for prosecco-heavy spritzes and looks great on any summer table.
Luigi Bormioli 27 oz Backdoor 20’s Cocktail Glass
For a speakeasy twist on your spritz. Use this glass for smaller, more intense versions, like a Negroni Sbagliato (Campari, sweet vermouth, prosecco). It’s sophisticated and unexpected.
Summer Spritz Recipes to Try
Classic Aperol Spritz
- 3 oz Prosecco
- 2 oz Aperol
- 1 oz soda water
- Garnish with an orange slice
Hugo Spritz
- 3 oz Prosecco
- 2 oz elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain)
- 1 oz soda water
- Fresh mint & lime garnish
Limoncello Spritz
- 3 oz Prosecco
- 1.5 oz Limoncello
- 1 oz soda water
- Lemon wheel and basil garnish
Negroni Sbagliato Spritz
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 2 oz prosecco
- Garnish with an orange twist
What to Serve with a Spritz
A spritz is the star of aperitivo hour — that golden time meant for unwinding before dinner with drinks and small bites. The ideal food pairings are salty, savory, and snackable. Think marinated olives, prosciutto-wrapped melon, crostini topped with whipped ricotta and a drizzle of honey, mini caprese skewers with fresh basil, and warm focaccia sprinkled with rosemary and sea salt. These light, flavorful bites perfectly balance the bitterness of the spritz and make it easy to sip slowly as the sun dips low.
Spritz season is more than just a trend — it’s a state of mind. It’s about slowing down, toasting to good weather and great company, and enjoying the small pleasures of summer. Whether you're pouring for one or hosting ten, make it special with the right recipe, a few good snacks, and of course — the perfect glass.
Cin cin to summer!