An Italian cocktail that has become a cult

It is impossible to evoke theMediterranean aperitif without thinking about the SpritzBorn in Venice in the 19th century, this colorful and sparkling cocktail quickly became a true institution in Italy.

Originally, it was a simple blend: Austrian soldiers settled in Veneto lightened the local wines with a spritzen (from the German verb "asperger") with sparkling water. This gesture gave its name to the famous Italian cocktail.

Over the years, the recipe was refined. Bitter liqueurs such asAperol or the Campari, a touch of sparkling wine (Prosecco), and always this effervescence which makes it a refreshing drink par excellence.

Today, the Spritz is much more than a cocktail: it is the symbol of a Mediterranean art of living, made of conviviality and relaxation in the sun.

 

 

The Evolution of Spritz Through the Ages

The Spritz has crossed generations, adapting to each era.

In the 1920s, it became a landmark of Venetian and Trieste cafés. The 1950s saw the rise of the Campari Spritz, more bitter, before Aperol became the flagship ingredient in the 1980s. Finally, in the 21st century, its international explosion made it a must-have on trendy terraces, rooftops and summer beaches.

Today it appears on the menus of bars and restaurants all over the world, from Japan to the United States, without ever losing its Italian identity.

 

Why does Spritz still appeal?

The success of the Spritz is based on three major assets:

• Its freshness : sparkling, light and thirst-quenching.
• Its aesthetics : its bright color makes it a star of Instagram and summer terraces.
• Its friendliness : it is easy to share, encouraging you to prolong the aperitif moment.

No wonder it's now the favorite summer cocktail and a classic urban aperitif.

 

A cocktail that is constantly being renewed: The great variations of the Spritz

If theAperol Spritz remains the most iconic, the cocktail has been adapted to appeal to all palates:

• St-Germain Spritz : more floral thanks to the elderflower liqueur.
• Italicus Spritz : scented with notes of citrus and Mediterranean spices.
• Campari Spritz : for lovers of strong bitterness.
• Select Spritz : original recipe from Venice, more intense.

 

These variations confirm that the Spritz is a cocktail in perpetual reinvention, capable of adapting to current trends and tastes.

 

How to make the perfect Spritz at home?

Here is the traditional recipe for Aperol Spritz, as recommended by Italian bartenders:

1. Fill a large balloon glass with ice cubes.
2. Add 3 volumes of Prosecco.
3. Pour 2 volumes of Aperol (or Campari, depending on your preference).
4. Complete with 1 part sparkling water.
5. Mix gently and add an orange slice for the finishing touch.

 

Bartender's Tip: Use chilled Prosecco and quality sparkling water to maintain the effervescence. Do not add a straw in keeping with Italian tradition.

 

 

The perfect match: Spritz and Mediterranean gastronomy

Spritz is rarely enjoyed on its own. It pairs perfectly with savory snacks and Mediterranean dishes:

• Antipasti: olives, bruschetta, dried tomatoes.
• Fine charcuterie: Parma ham, mortadella.
• Italian cheeses: burrata, parmesan, pecorino.
• Seafood tapas: anchovies, fried squid, grilled prawns.

 

This food and cocktail pairing extends the Italian experience and makes it a great choice for an aperitif with friends or an after-work drink.

 

 

The Spritz goes perfectly with mezzes offered at Solis at the restaurant in the evening and at the bar all day. It goes perfectly with fried anchovies with semolina and crushed tomatoes, the traditional pan con tomate, as well as the quick tortilla. It can also be enjoyed with the buckwheat pancake filled with feta, spinach, and a touch of honey.

 

 

Spritz as a lifestyle trend

The Spritz has become much more than just a refreshing drink. Today it is a lifestyle symbol:

• On Instagram : with its bright orange color, it is one of the most photographed cocktails. It has been the star of our Solis photoshoots several times, take a look:

 

 

• On TikTok : millions of videos show revisited recipes.
• In afterworks : it stands out as the ideal companion for relaxed evenings.

In short, it embodies the Mediterranean art of living: simple, elegant & festive.

 

Spritz Hour at Solis

At the house of Solis, we have made Spritz a true celebration. Every evening, Monday to Saturday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., discover our Spritz Hour (Happy Hour). The perfect opportunity to enjoy our creations:

• Aperol Spritz (the essential classic).
• St-Germain Spritz (elegant and floral).
• Italicus Spritz (bold and Mediterranean).

A festive moment where theMediterranean aperitif takes on its full meaning, accompanied by our wines of the moment or a craft beer to vary the pleasures.

At Solis, the atmosphere is reminiscent of an Italian piazza: friendly, warm, and conducive to socializing. Spritz Hour is the perfect opportunity for an after-work drink or an aperitif with friends.

 

Where to enjoy Spritz in Paris?

On a sunny terrace, with colleagues after work, or during an evening with friends, a Spritz is always a good idea. At Solis, we make it a point of honor to recreate the Mediterranean atmosphere, with a menu designed to share and prolong the pleasure. There are many Spritz bars in Paris, but the best choice remains Solis, where you can enjoy this cocktail in a friendly atmosphere.

 

FAQ – Everything you need to know about Spritz

What is the difference between Aperol and Campari?
Aperol is milder, slightly sweet, and less alcoholic (11% alcohol), while Campari is more bitter and stronger (25% alcohol). The choice depends on your preferences.

What wine should I use for a Spritz?
Traditionally, Prosecco, an Italian sparkling wine, is used. You can also choose a dry sparkling white wine.

Why do we say Mediterranean aperitif?
Because it embodies the art of living in Mediterranean countries: conviviality, sunshine, sharing and simplicity of ingredients.

Is Spritz always orange?
Not necessarily. Depending on the liqueur used (Campari, St-Germain, Italicus), the color varies from deep red to gold.

When is the best time for a Spritz?
Traditionally, aperitivo is held at the end of the day, between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. It's the perfect time to unwind and socialize.

 

Conclusion

Of Italian cocktail born in Venice in the 19th century Spritz Hour From Solis to today, the Spritz has continued to reinvent itself without losing its festive DNA. More than a refreshing drink, it’s an Italian art of living that we invite you to rediscover every week at Solis.

👉 Ready to experience it? Join us for Spritz Hour and indulge in the most iconic Mediterranean aperitif!