Holiday Aperol Spritz

If you’re looking for a festive cocktail that’s light, refreshing, and impossibly easy to make, this Holiday Aperol Spritz is the perfect choice. It takes the classic Aperol Spritz you love and gives it a seasonal twist with bright citrus, bubbly Prosecco, and a touch of holiday flair. Whether you’re hosting a party, setting the mood for a cozy night in, or kicking off a celebration, this simple, vibrant cocktail brings color and cheer to any gathering. Let’s shake up a new holiday favorite!

I went to Italy for my 40th birthday and I actually did not have an Aperol Spritz while I was there! Kind of hard to believe (I know!), however, that’s because I opted for wine instead. The ‘aperitivo’ is a beloved Italian tradition. A ritual where you slow down, unwind, and relax with friends. An aperitivo is a beverage that is typically enjoyed before dinner. I’ve featured a traditional Aperol Spritz here on the blog along with my absolute favorite spritz, The Hugo Spritz. Other popular spritzes include the Limoncello Spritz and the Rosé Hugo Spritz. And today we’re getting in the holiday spirit and making a Holiday Aperol Spritz with pomegranate juice!

The holiday season brings a whirlwind of parties, gatherings, and get-togethers, which means the simpler you can make hosting, the better. Having a themed, holiday-inspired drink ready to go takes the guesswork out of entertaining and instantly elevates the vibe. A signature cocktail feels fun and festive, gives guests something to look forward to, and frees you up to actually enjoy your own party instead of mixing drinks all night. Cheers to easy hosting!

Ingredients: Holiday Aperol Spritz

A traditional Aperol Spritz is the ratio 3:2:1: 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, and 1 part soda water. I added the same amount of pomegranate juice as Aperol. You can always add more or less juice depending on your preference. It’s really that simple to make into a holiday version and also help offset the bitter Aperol flavor!

• Prosecco: Prosecco is an Italian sparkling wine similar to Spanish Cava or French Champagne. I recommend choosing a dry (brut) Prosecco, so your drink doesn’t turn out too syrupy or sweet (choose one that hits the sweetness level you prefer). Good choices range from 12 to 18 dollars. If you decide to go on the cheaper end, they’re not always as tasty. Trust me. I also buy a small bottle to enjoy one Aperol at a time! (The small bottles have 6 ounces and can make 2 spritzes!)
• Aperol: Aperol is a brand of amaro, an Italian-style bittersweet liqueur that is commonly used as an apéritif. A bright red orange (see below) liqueur that is made of citrusy, herbal ingredients, it has a distinct taste that might remind you of burnt orange and rhubarb.
• Pomegranate Juice: To make this festive and fun (and red!) I opted for pomegranate juice. You could use cranberry juice as well. Using pomegranate juice I did not have to add simple syrup and mine tasted delicious! If you use cranberry juice, it might need a little simple syrup.
• Club Soda: To add a little volume and help dilute the fizz, use any unflavored sparkling water. Always great to keep cans of sparkling water in your pantry for this reason. Just make sure to throw them in the refrigerator to help cool/chill the drink (even though you’ll add ice, it still helps!)
• Garnish: Orange slices (for the traditional Aperol), along with pomegranate arils and a twig of rosemary to be extra festive!

How To Make A Holiday Aperol Spritz

1. First, fill your glass with ice and let it chill for 30 seconds (trust me – it makes a difference – at least it does here in Miami!)
2. Pour in your measuring cup 3 ounces of Prosecco, 2 ounces of Aperol, 2 ounces of pomegranate juice, and one ounce of club soda. Give it a good stir.
3. Pour this mixture into your wine glass with the ice.
4. Garnish with the orange slice, pomegranate arils, and rosemary sprig. Enjoy!

How To Make a Batched Version

• Ingredients, for eight: 3 cups Prosecco or one 750 mL bottle Prosecco, 2 cups Aperol, 2 cups Pomegranate juice, and one cup club soda (or one 7.5 ounce can club soda)
• If serving right away: Add Prosecco, Aperol, pomegranate juice, and club soda to a pitcher or punch bowl. Stir to combine. Serve in wine glasses filled with ice. Garnish with pomegranate arils, orange slices, and a rosemary sprig.
• If making ahead of time: Add Aperol and pomegranate juice to a pitcher or punch bowl. Stir to combine. Place in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, add the club soda and Prosecco. Stir again, then serve in wine glasses filled with ice. Garnish and enjoy!

What To Serve with Your Holiday Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz is served as an apertif. Apertifs are meant to be served before a meal to help stimulate your appetite (and not fill you up too much!) They’re lighter in alcohol and more dry than sweet. Remember the Aperol is on the bitter side. Foods that pair well will be salty, creamy/fatty, and sweet foods that will take the edge away from the bitter flavor.

• Mezze Board
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• Cranberry Brie Bites

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