cocktail
Grapefruit Aperitivo
The classic Aperol Spritz meets a springtime twist with a splash of fresh grapefruit juice. The tart, slightly sweet citrus brightens the bittersweet Aperol and plays beautifully with the dry Prosecco, setting up a cocktail that feels fresh and seasonal—perfect for celebratory gatherings like graduations or backyard parties. Building it directly in the glass makes it effortless for batching and serving.
For a non-alcoholic variation, try Ghia for the Aperol, sparkling water for the Prosecco, and fresh grapefruit juice as is. Chill your glasses in the freezer ahead of time to keep these spritzes ultra crisp and cold at serving.
Do Ahead
Batch the Aperol and grapefruit juice mixture up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate; add Prosecco and soda to order to retain the fizz.
Ingredients
- 3 oz dry Prosecco
- 2 oz Aperol
- 1 oz club soda
- 0.25 oz fresh grapefruit juice (Best strained to remove pulp.)
- Grapefruit slice for garnish
What Done Looks Like
A properly made spritz shows steady streams of fine bubbles rising through clear liquid. Glass should feel ice-cold to the touch—if the bubbles fade quickly, either the wine was too warm or the glass wasn't chilled enough.
Instructions
- 01 Fill a large wine glass generously with ice, ensuring the cubes are large and fresh for minimal dilution.
- 02 Pour 3 oz of dry Prosecco gently over the ice to avoid excessive fizz.
- 03 Add 2 oz of Aperol directly into the glass, allowing it to slowly mingle with the Prosecco.
- 04 Top with 1 oz of club soda and 0.25 oz of fresh grapefruit juice, giving the drink a bright citrus edge.
- 05 Stir gently just to combine and avoid losing the bubbles.
- 06 Garnish with a fresh slice of grapefruit tucked against the inside of the glass, and serve immediately.
If It Goes Sideways
- Drink tastes too bitter, the grapefruit juice may have been too concentrated—use freshly squeezed juice strained well to balance the profile.
- Fizziness feels flat, Prosecco or soda might have lost its sparkle—open a fresh bottle of both and pour more gently next time.
Recipes built around your taste.
Applied Tastes generates restaurant-quality recipes from your mood, your pantry, and your evolving taste profile. Try it free.
Get Started Free