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Aperol Spritz Substitute: Best Alternatives for the Classic Cocktail

Discover the best substitutes for Aperol in Spritz cocktails. Learn about alternative aperitifs, homemade blends, and how to recreate the perfect Aperol Spritz when you don't have Aperol.

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Quick Answer

The best substitutes for Aperol in a Spritz are Campari (with added sweetness), Aperitivo Select, or a homemade blend of orange liqueur with bitters. Each maintains the bitter-sweet profile essential for an authentic Spritz experience.

Best Substitutes

Campari + Simple Syrup

1:1 with 1/4 oz simple syrup

Campari with added sweetness to match Aperol's profile

Best for:

spritz cocktailsaperitifsbitter-sweet drinks

Add simple syrup to balance Campari's extra bitterness

Aperitivo Select

1:1

Italian aperitif with similar flavor profile to Aperol

Best for:

spritz cocktailsaperitifsItalian cocktails

Closest commercial substitute with similar sweetness and bitterness

Orange Liqueur + Orange Bitters

3:1 orange liqueur to bitters

Homemade blend using triple sec or Cointreau with orange bitters

Best for:

spritz cocktailscustom drinksexperimental cocktails

Add a splash of simple syrup and grapefruit juice for complexity

Cynar + Orange Juice

2:1 Cynar to orange juice

Artichoke-based bitter with added orange for sweetness

Best for:

spritz cocktailsherbal drinkscomplex aperitifs

More herbal than Aperol but creates an interesting spritz variation

Non-Alcoholic Aperitif + Orange Juice

1:1 with splash of orange juice

Alcohol-free aperitif alternatives for mocktail spritzes

Best for:

mocktail spritzesnon-alcoholic drinksdaytime drinking

Look for brands like Lyre's or Seedlip for alcohol-free options

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

Discover the best substitutes for Aperol in Spritz cocktails. Learn about alternative aperitifs, homemade blends, and how to recreate the perfect Aperol Spritz when you don't have Aperol.