Aperol seems everywhere all of a sudden, and its cousin Campari is also enjoying a new popularity. I'm wondering why they should suddenly have become so popular. It may be simply that they've been rediscovered by another generation — they went out of fashion, and like many things they came back — or whether the marketing department of Campari (the owners) has something to do with it.

Aperol is an Italian aperitif originally produced by the Barbieri company, based in Padua. Aperol is now produced by the Campari company. While Aperol was originally created in 1919 (can you believe it?!) it did not become successful until after World War II. Its ingredients are, among others, bitter orange, gentian, rhubarb, and cinchona. Although Aperol looks, tastes and smells much like Campari, Aperol has an alcohol content of only 11% which is less than half of Campari. Aperol and Campari have the same sugar content. Campari is also slightly darker in colour. 

Whatever the reasons these drinks are suddenly fashionable again, I love an Aperol Spritz.

I bought some stunning glasses yesterday from my favourite local shop, Quirky Dovetail that are perfect for making an Aperol Spritz. They are vintage, pink crystal glasses and are much wider than a wine glass so the perfect shape. Also the beautiful pink shade lends itself perfectly to the colour of an Aperol Spritz. I used them last night on my two Kiwi friends.

Ingredients

• A handful of ice cubes
• 50ml Aperol
• 75ml prosecco
• A splash of soda water
• 1 slice of orange

Method

1. Add lots of ice to a large white wine glass. Pour over the Aperol, followed by the Prosecco.
2. Stir once and finish the drink with a splash of soda water and a slice of orange.

Enjoy, you won't regret trying this fabulous drink!