Prosecco Substitute for Aperol Spritz: Best Sparkling Wine Alternatives
Discover the best substitutes for prosecco in Aperol Spritz cocktails. Learn about alternative sparkling wines, non-alcoholic options, and how to recreate the perfect spritz when you don't have prosecco.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for prosecco in Aperol Spritz are Cava, Champagne, or other dry sparkling wines. For non-alcoholic versions, use sparkling water, club soda, or non-alcoholic sparkling wine. The key is maintaining the dry, effervescent quality.
Best Substitutes
Cava
1:1Spanish sparkling wine with similar dry, crisp profile to prosecco
Best for:
Very similar to prosecco in taste and effervescence
Champagne
1:1French sparkling wine with more complexity than prosecco
Best for:
More complex and expensive than prosecco but works beautifully
Other Italian Sparkling Wines
1:1Lambrusco, Franciacorta, or other Italian sparkling wines
Best for:
Lambrusco adds a slight sweetness, Franciacorta is more like Champagne
Sparkling Water + White Wine
2:1 sparkling water to dry white wineHomemade sparkling wine substitute using dry white wine and sparkling water
Best for:
Use a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Wine
1:1Alcohol-free sparkling wine alternatives for mocktail spritzes
Best for:
Look for brands like Fre, Ariel, or other non-alcoholic sparkling wines
Club Soda + White Wine
3:1 club soda to dry white wineSimple substitute using club soda and dry white wine
Best for:
Use a dry white wine and add a splash of lemon juice for acidity
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best substitute for prosecco in Aperol Spritz?
Cava is the closest substitute to prosecco, followed by Champagne. Both maintain the dry, effervescent quality essential for an authentic Aperol Spritz.
Can I use Champagne instead of prosecco in Aperol Spritz?
Yes! Champagne works beautifully in Aperol Spritz and adds more complexity and elegance. It's more expensive than prosecco but creates a premium spritz experience.
What's the difference between prosecco and Cava in Aperol Spritz?
Cava is very similar to prosecco in taste and effervescence, making it an excellent substitute. Both are dry, crisp, and light-bodied, perfect for spritz cocktails.
Can I make Aperol Spritz without sparkling wine?
Yes! Use a combination of dry white wine and sparkling water, or try non-alcoholic sparkling wine for mocktail versions. The key is maintaining the effervescent, dry quality.
What's the perfect ratio for Aperol Spritz?
The classic ratio is 3:2:1 prosecco to Aperol to soda water. This creates the perfect balance of effervescence, bitterness, and sweetness that makes the spritz so refreshing.
Summary
Discover the best substitutes for prosecco in Aperol Spritz cocktails. Learn about alternative sparkling wines, non-alcoholic options, and how to recreate the perfect spritz when you don't have prosecco.