Joybuy Insights

The 2026 Aperol Spritz Guide: DIY or Ready-to-Drink?

By Joybuy

Updated June 2026

5 Min Read

The sun is out, and patio season is calling. The iconic orange glow of an Aperol Spritz has become an essential part of any warm day. But then you're faced with a choice at the store: do you buy a bottle of Aperol and Prosecco to mix yourself, or opt for the convenience of a pre-mixed bottle? Both options have their merits. This guide will help you make the right choice for your needs, without the marketing fluff. We focus on the facts and specifications.

The Choice: Make Your Own Aperol Spritz or Buy a Ready-to-Drink Version?

The decision comes down to three factors: convenience, control, and occasion.

Making your own cocktail gives you complete control over the proportions. Prefer your Spritz a little more bitter, or perhaps a bit lighter? Simply adjust the amount of Aperol and Prosecco. It's the ideal choice for those who enjoy the art of drink preparation and want to tailor the flavour profile to their exact preference.

A ready-to-drink Aperol Spritz is all about convenience. The mix is already prepared for you, ensuring a consistent taste every single time. This is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or parties where you need to serve drinks to a crowd quickly, without the hassle of measuring and mixing.

What to Look for in Your Ingredients

If you choose to mix your own, these are the key components:

• Aperol: The foundation of the cocktail. This Italian aperitif has a signature bittersweet flavour of orange, blended with herbs and roots. Its ABV is 11%.
• Prosecco: An Italian sparkling wine. For a balanced Aperol Spritz, a Prosecco Brut is a popular choice. 'Brut' indicates that the wine is dry, with low residual sugar, which pairs well with the sweetness of Aperol. An 'Extra Dry' is slightly sweeter.
• Soda Water: A splash of soda water adds extra fizz and freshness.
• Garnish: A slice of orange is the classic finishing touch. It not only adds colour but also a fresh citrus aroma.

The Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe (3-2-1 Method)

The most common recipe for an Aperol Spritz follows the 3-2-1 ratio. It's a simple guideline for a perfectly balanced drink.

1. Fill a large wine glass completely with ice cubes.
2. Add 3 parts Prosecco (approximately 90 ml).
3. Add 2 parts Aperol (approximately 60 ml).
4. Top with 1 part soda water (approximately 30 ml).
5. Garnish with a slice of orange. Stir gently and serve immediately.

Our Product Selection for Your Aperitif

Below is a selection of products that cater to the different ways of enjoying an Aperol Spritz. These choices are based on their specifications and applications.

1. Aperol - 700 ml

• Why this product: This is the authentic and essential foundation for anyone who wants to make their own Aperol Spritz. With a bottle of Aperol, you have the freedom to experiment with proportions and perfect the cocktail to your personal taste.
• Advantages:
  • The authentic flavour of bittersweet orange.
  • Large 700 ml bottle, enough for several cocktails.
  • ABV of 11%, the standard for this aperitif.
• Who is this for: For the host who enjoys mixing their own drinks and wants to maintain control over the cocktail's flavour and strength. Also a great choice if you plan on making summer cocktails often.

2. Aperol Spritz - 600 ml (Ready-to-Drink)

• Why this product: This ready-to-drink version offers the convenience of a perfectly mixed Aperol Spritz, effortlessly. The ratio of Aperol, sparkling wine, and soda is pre-determined for a consistent flavour.
• Advantages:
  • Ready to serve: just add ice and an orange slice.
  • Convenient pack of 3 x 200 ml bottles, ideal for on-the-go or for smaller groups.
  • Contains sulphites as an allergen, which is standard for wine-based products.
• Who is this for: Ideal for those looking for speed and convenience. Perfect for an impromptu get-together, a day at the park, or when you don't want the hassle of measuring ingredients.

3. Tiresia Prosecco - 750 ml

• Why this product: A good Prosecco is crucial for a successful homemade Spritz. The Tiresia Prosecco is a sophisticated sparkling wine with a fresh and fruity character that balances beautifully with the bittersweet notes of Aperol.
• Advantages:
  • Fresh and light taste with aromas of green apple, pear, and citrus.
  • With an ABV of 11% and a low sugar content (1 g per 100 ml), this is a dry Prosecco that won't make the cocktail overly sweet.
  • Sourced from the Prosecco region in Italy.
• Who is this for: For the enthusiast who makes their own Aperol Spritz and seeks a high-quality, dry Prosecco that keeps the cocktail's flavours in perfect balance.

Looking for Other Italian Drinks?

While the Aperol Spritz is one of the most famous Italian aperitifs, Italian drink culture has much more to offer. For those who love discovering new flavours, there is a growing appreciation for craft beers from Italy. These beers offer a completely different flavour profile, ranging from crisp and light to rich and complex.

If you'd like to broaden your horizons, take a look at the selection of Italian craft beers. Discover our selection of Italian beer here.

Frequently Asked Questions about Aperol Spritz

1. What is the alcohol content of an Aperol Spritz? The ABV depends on the ratios and products used. A homemade Spritz using the 3-2-1 method (with 11% ABV Prosecco and 11% ABV Aperol) will be around 8-9% ABV. The ready-to-drink Aperol Spritz has a fixed ABV of around 8%.

2. Which Prosecco is best for an Aperol Spritz? A Prosecco Brut is generally the most recommended choice. It is dry and crisp, providing a good balance to the sweeter notes of Aperol. A Prosecco Extra Dry, which is slightly sweeter, can also be used if you prefer a sweeter cocktail.

3. How long does a bottle of Aperol last after opening? Aperol has a relatively high sugar content and an 11% ABV. Once opened, if sealed tightly and stored in a cool, dark place, the spirit will remain in good condition for several months. However, the flavour and colour may degrade slightly over time. Always consult the label for specific storage instructions.

---

Written by the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer