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Venetian Spritz: History, Recipe & Curiosities
The Venetian Spritz is more than just a cocktail, it’s a true symbol of conviviality.
Born between Venice and Northern Italy, its roots trace back to the time of the Austrian Empire, when foreign soldiers diluted local wine with sparkling water to make it lighter. Today, the Venetian Spritz is an iconic drink, served in Venetian bacari and loved all over the world.
From the classic Venetian Spritz with Select, considered the most authentic, to variations with Aperol, Campari, or Cynar, this cocktail has captivated generations.
Let’s explore the history, original recipe, and different variations of the true Venetian Spritz.
At Caffè Florian: the spritz is served in an Old Fashioned glass according to the old tradition
The Origins of the Venetian Spritz: A Journey Through History
The Venetian spritz originated in the 19th century during the Austrian rule in Veneto. Austrian soldiers and officials found the local wines too strong and began to dilute them with sparkling water, creating the first rudimentary ‘Spritz’ (from the German spritzen, ‘to splash’).
As time passed, Venetians embraced and adapted this practice. By the early 20th century, they began adding a splash of bittersweet liqueur to the mix, creating a more complex and flavorful drink2. The introduction of Select in 1920, a bitter liqueur from Venice, marked a significant evolution in the Spritz’s recipe.
The 1950s saw another transformation with the popularization of Aperol, a lighter and sweeter alternative to Select. This version of the Spritz, known as the Aperol Spritz, quickly gained popularity for its vibrant orange color and refreshing taste. The combination of Prosecco, Aperol, and soda water became the standard recipe, creating the iconic cocktail we know today.
The Spritz’s journey didn’t stop in Venice. In the early 2000s, the Campari Group, which owns Aperol, launched a successful marketing campaign that introduced the Spritz to a global audience.
This campaign showcased the Spritz as the perfect drink for socializing and unwinding, cementing its status as a symbol of Italian aperitivo culture.
Today, the Venetian Spritz is enjoyed worldwide, from bustling cities to quiet coastal towns. Its simplicity, versatility, and refreshing taste have made it a favorite for many. Whether sipped in a Venetian bacaro or a trendy New York bar, the Spritz continues to bring people together, celebrating the joy of conviviality and the beauty of life’s simple pleasures…..
The Original Venetian Spritz Recipe
The Venetian Spritz, the beloved aperitivo, has a rich history. Is a light and refreshing cocktail, perfect as an aperitif and deeply rooted in Venetian culture.
The original recipe has evolved over time, but its essence remains the same.
Here’s how to make the classic Venetian Spritz:
Venetian Spritz
Directions:
1. Fill an old-fashioned glass or wine glass with ice.
2. Pour in the white wine or Prosecco
3. Add bitter, preferably Select, which is the most traditional in Venice.
4. Complete with sparkling water or soda.
5. Garnish with a slice of orange (if using Aperol) or a green olive (if using Select or Campari), according to Venetian tradition.
This recipe highlights the use of Select Aperitivo, which gives the Spritz its characteristic bittersweet flavor and deep red color. The addition of Prosecco and soda water creates a refreshing and effervescent drink, perfect for any occasion!
From the best hills to the north of the province of Treviso, the best Prosecco vineyards produce grapes that are harvested by hand at the beginning of October and give life to the Florian-branded Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Superiore D.O.C.G.
Venetian Spritz Variations: More Than Just Aperol
Spritz is a versatile and popular cocktail, and there are many variations besides the classic Aperol Spritz.
Here are just a few of the most interesting ones:
Spritz Select: Considered by many to be the original Spritz, the Select has a citrusy and slightly bitter flavour. Perfect for those who like stronger flavours.
Spritz Campari: This variant uses Campari instead of Aperol, offering a more bitter and less sweet taste. It is very popular in the northern regions of Italy.
Spritz Cynar: A bolder choice, Cynar is an artichoke-based liqueur that gives the Spritz a complex and unique flavour. Ideal for those looking for something different.
Spritz Hugo: A fresh and floral variant, the Hugo is made with elderflower syrup, Prosecco, soda and mint leaves. Perfect for summer days.
Spritz al Limoncello: This version uses Limoncello, adding a sweet, citrus note that goes well with Prosecco and soda.
Bianco Florian D.O.C. was produced in a limited edition, with numbered bottles, to mark the 300th anniversary of the historic Café in St. Mark's Square.
Where to Drink the Best Venetian Spritz in Venice
Venice is a city that invites you to get lost among the calli and campielli. Wandering around without a precise destination, one runs the risk of getting pleasantly lost.
For a Spritz that leaves a lasting memory, you need a list of highly recommended places.
Here are some of the best places to enjoy this iconic Venetian aperitif:
Art Bar, St. Regis Hotel: here the Spritz is a luxury experience. You can choose from several variations of the cocktail, all carefully prepared and presented with unparalleled elegance and artistry.
Caffè Florian – Piazza San Marco: one of the oldest and most prestigious cafés in Venice, Caffè Florian offers a masterfully prepared Spritz in a historic and charming setting. Enjoying an aperitif here is a unique experience combining tradition and sophistication.
Cantine del Vino già Schiavi: located in the Dorsoduro sestiere, this historic bacaro is famous for its cicchetti and Spritz prepared with high quality ingredients. The authentic and cosy atmosphere makes it a perfect place for a traditional aperitif.
Osteria Al Squero: Close to the famous San Trovaso squero, this osteria offers a unique view of gondoliers at work. Here you can enjoy a Spritz accompanied by delicious cicchetti, immersed in a typical Venetian atmosphere.
Bar Longhi – Hotel Gritti Palace: For a luxurious experience, Bar Longhi inside the Hotel Gritti Palace is an excellent choice. The Spritz here is carefully prepared and served in an elegant setting with a breathtaking view of the Grand Canal.
Il Santo Bevitore: This modern and cosy venue in the Cannaregio district is known for its creative cocktails and interestingly prepared Spritz. An ideal place for those looking for a different experience.
Caffè Rosso: Located in Campo Santa Margherita, one of the liveliest spots in Venice, Caffè Rosso is a popular meeting point for young people and students. Here you can enjoy a Spritz in an informal and dynamic atmosphere.
The Venetian Spritz Around the World: An International Success
Today, the Spritz is appreciated all over the world, from New York to Tokyo, via Sydney and London. Its international success is due to its simplicity, freshness and versatility. Each city has adopted the Spritz, adding its own local touch, but always maintaining the essence of the Venetian cocktail.
A symbol of Italian aperitivo culture, it represents a moment of conviviality and relaxation that is celebrated all over the world.
In Venice, sociability and conviviality are amplified thanks to the pedestrian nature of the city. Here it is easy to meet friends and stop for a Spritz in one of the many bacari or Cafés. The city, experienced on foot, favours spontaneous meetings and informal chats, making every aperitif a special moment of sharing and joy.
In this unique context, the Spritz is not just a drink, but a true ritual that celebrates the unique style of Venetian life.
