We all know and love the classic Aperol Spritz, but did you know that Aperol pairs beautifully with gin?
Like many, my introduction to Aperol was through the super-popular Aperol Spritz. It’s the perfect summer drink, with its vibrant orange hue and refreshing fizz.
But seeing that I’m also a gin enthusiast (I get that from my grandmother!) I couldn’t help but wonder…
What would happen if I combined these two iconic ingredients? Turns out, something pretty awesome happens!
I started experimenting with aperol and gin, and now I’m hooked.
The Aperol Gin Cocktail
The Aperol gin cocktail is a fantastic alternative to the traditional Negroni. It offers a similar bittersweet complexity, but with a lighter, more refreshing profile.
It’s a great choice for pre-dinner drinks, perfect for the aperitivo hour, or anytime you want a bright and flavorful alcoholic beverage.
Aperol Gin Spritz
Let’s start with the easiest: the Aperol Gin Spritz. It’s a simple, bubbly delight.
- 1.5 oz gin (I prefer a dry gin, like Hendrick’s gin, for this)
- 2 oz Aperol (ml aperol)
- 3 oz soda water (oz club soda)
- Orange slice, for garnish
Simply fill a serving glass with plenty of ice, add the gin and Aperol, top with soda water, and garnish with an orange slice. It’s an easy cocktail that looks and tastes fantastic.
Aperol Gin Sour
For those who enjoy a bit of tartness, the Aperol Gin Sour is a must-try.
- 2 oz gin (ml gin)
- 1 oz Aperol
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice (oz lime juice)
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well until chilled, then double strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.
This is a great way to highlight the bitterness of the Aperol, balanced with the lemon juice and simple syrup. You can also use Meyer lemons for a sweeter less acidic taste than regular lemons.
Aperol Negroni Cocktail
If you love the classic Negroni but want something a bit lighter, try this Aperol version.
- 1 oz gin (equal parts gin)
- 1 oz Aperol (place of campari)
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- Orange peel, for garnish
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir well until chilled, then strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Express the orange peel over the drink and use as a garnish.
This Aperol Negroni cocktail gives you the complex flavor of a traditional negroni but with a splash of aperol, and a lighter more approachable flavor.
Aperol Gin Fizz
The Aperol Gin Fizz is a refreshing and effervescent cocktail, perfect for a warm day.
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz Aperol (splash of Aperol)
- 1 oz fresh lime juice (oz lime juice)
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Soda water
- Lime wedge, for garnish
Combine gin, Aperol, lime juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well until chilled.
Strain into a highball glass filled with ice, top with soda water, and garnish with a lime wedge.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Aperol Gin Cocktails
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the gin and Aperol, the better the cocktail. Use a premium gin from your gin bottle.
- Fresh citrus is key: Always use freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice for the best flavor.
- Chill your glassware: Chilled glassware keeps your cocktail colder for longer.
- Plenty of ice: Use plenty of ice cubes to keep your cocktails cold.
- Consider a honey cocktail: Substitute honey for simple syrup for a different flavor profile.
- Copper mugs: Some people like to use copper mugs for certain aperol cocktails.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What’s the best gin for an Aperol gin cocktail? A dry gin is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with different gins.
A: Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice? Yes, you can! Lime juice adds a slightly different flavor profile.
Q: How do I make simple syrup?
A: Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let cool before using.
Q: Can I make an Aperol gin cocktail without soda water?
A: Yes, you can! Try a sour or a Negroni variation.
Q: What’s the difference between an Aperol Spritz, and an Aperol Gin Spritz?
A: The Aperol Spritz uses Prosecco, and the Gin version uses Gin and soda water.
Whether you’re hosting your next happy hour in New York City or enjoying a quiet evening at home, an Aperol gin cocktail is sure to impress.
The bitterness of the aperol is perfectly balanced by the other ingredients. This cocktail recipe is a new way to enjoy a classic cocktail. Have fun experimenting!