Aperol Aperitivo, the vibrant orange Italian liqueur, has been brightening up spritzes and cocktails since 1919 with its unique blend of bitter and sweet flavors. Interestingly, despite its bold color and taste, Aperol has a relatively low alcohol content of only 11% ABV, making it one of the lightest aperitifs available – perfect for those who want to enjoy a refreshing drink without the heavy effects of higher-proof spirits.

Aperol Aperitivo
Aperol Aperitivo is a Aperitifs crafted in Italy.
Why We Love It
Cocktail enthusiasts should embrace Aperol Aperitivo for its vibrant orange hue and distinctive bittersweet flavor profile, which sets it apart from rums and other spirits. This Italian aperitif liqueur, created in 1919, boasts a secret recipe of herbs and roots, including rhubarb and cinchona, resulting in a lower alcohol content (11% ABV) that makes it perfect for day-drinking and refreshing summer cocktails like the iconic Aperol Spritz.
How to Drink It
Aperol Aperitivo shines brightest when served in refreshing, low-alcohol spritz cocktails, perfect for sipping on warm summer afternoons or during leisurely brunches. Its bittersweet orange flavor complements light appetizers and seafood dishes, making it an ideal aperitif to stimulate the appetite before a meal.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Bright orange zest, ripe red berries, and a hint of rhubarb. Herbaceous notes of gentian root and cinchona bark provide an earthy backdrop. A subtle vanilla sweetness rounds out the aroma.
Palate: Bittersweet orange dominates, balanced by a medley of herbs and spices. Juniper berries and coriander add complexity. A gentle sweetness reminiscent of candied orange peel emerges. Light bodied with a silky texture.
Finish: Medium length with lingering bitter notes from gentian and cinchona. The sweetness fades, leaving a refreshing, dry finish. Hints of grapefruit pith and aromatic herbs persist, inviting another sip.
How It's Made
Aperol Aperitivo is crafted through a careful infusion of bitter and sweet oranges, rhubarb, and an array of herbs and roots in alcohol and water. The exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, but the vibrant orange hue comes naturally from the infusion process, which takes several weeks to complete before the liquid is filtered, sweetened, and bottled at its signature 11% ABV.
Fun Facts
- Aperol's vibrant orange color comes from a natural source - infused rhubarb. This gives the liqueur its distinctive hue without any artificial coloring.
- Despite its lower alcohol content (11% ABV), Aperol contains over 30 different ingredients, including bitter and sweet oranges, rhubarb, and a secret blend of herbs.
- During World War II, Aperol became a favorite among Italian soldiers as a morale booster. They would mix it with water to create a refreshing, low-alcohol beverage that reminded them of home.