Looking for a refreshing twist on a classic summer cocktail? The Americana Aperol Spritz brings a patriotic flair to the popular Italian aperitif.

This simple recipe requires just four ingredients: Aperol, sparkling wine, club soda, and fresh blueberries and strawberries for a red, white, and blue theme.

This crowd-pleasing cocktail works perfectly for Fourth of July celebrations, Memorial Day barbecues, or honestly, any summer gathering you can dream up. The bright orange Aperol pairs beautifully with tart berries, making a drink that’s both visually striking and pretty darn tasty.

The Americana Aperol Spritz keeps the original’s light, bubbly character but adds a fruity American touch. It’s a balanced drink that’s less bitter than the usual Aperol cocktails—so if you’ve got friends who like things on the sweeter side, this one’s a winner.

Americana Aperol Spritz Cocktail Recipe

This refreshing spin on the classic Aperol Spritz adds American flair with bourbon and apple cider. It’s a perfect seasonal cocktail, especially when you’re craving something a little unexpected.

John

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size

Equipment

Ingredients

For one cocktail:

2 oz Aperol
1 oz bourbon preferably a smooth, medium-proof option
3 oz prosecco
1 oz apple cider
Splash of soda water
Ice cubes
Orange slice and apple slice for garnish

Instructions

Fill a highball glass or wine glass with ice cubes.

Pour the bourbon over the ice.
Add the Aperol and apple cider.
Gently stir the mixture with a bar spoon.

Top with prosecco and a splash of soda water. Stir again, but go easy—no one wants to lose those bubbles. Garnish with an orange slice and apple slice on the rim if you’re feeling fancy.
Serve right away, while it’s still cold and bubbly.

Notes

This cocktail really shines during fall and winter when apple cider is everywhere. If you want more bourbon flavor, bump it up to 1.5 oz.

For something less sweet, swap in hard apple cider instead. Or if you’re after a spicier vibe, rye whiskey totally works here.

Store-bought apple cider is fine, but if you can get your hands on fresh-pressed, it’s worth it for the extra flavor. This drink pairs well with cheese boards, charcuterie, or just some light snacks.

Making drinks for a crowd? Multiply the recipe for a pitcher, but wait to add the prosecco until right before serving to keep things fizzy.

Tasting Notes

The Americana Aperol Spritz has this bright orange-coral color that’s hard to ignore. First sip? Super refreshing, honestly.

The flavor starts with the bittersweet hit of Aperol—think orange and a little herbal. That’s mellowed out by the gentle sweetness from the bourbon.

Sparkling wine brings in crisp bubbles that make everything feel lighter. The aromas really pop as you sip, thanks to all that fizz.

Key Flavor Components:

Bitter orange from the Aperol
Sweet caramel notes from the bourbon
Crisp acidity from the sparkling wine

Subtle herbal undertones
Refreshing citrus finish

The mouthfeel is light and bubbly—perfect for a warm afternoon. It finishes bittersweet, but not in a way that hangs around too long.

If you’re thinking about what to serve with it, try salty snacks, cheese plates (especially mild cheeses), light appetizers, or a good charcuterie board.

The fizz sticks around for about 15–20 minutes after pouring, so don’t let it sit too long. Best enjoyed right away, honestly.

Substitute

Can’t find Aperol? No worries. There are a few ways to keep your cocktail plans alive.

Campari can step in, though it’s definitely more bitter and bold. If you like things a bit sweeter, Cappelletti or Select Aperitivo might be your jam.

No prosecco? That’s not a dealbreaker. Any dry sparkling wine—think cava or champagne—should do the trick.

Honestly, if you’re in a bind, club soda with a splash of white wine gets you close enough. It’s not quite the same, but hey, sometimes you just have to improvise.

For a non-alcoholic spin, you could mix blood orange juice with tonic water and a dash of bitters. The color pops, and it’s still super refreshing.

Americana Aperol Spritz Cocktail Recipe