The concept of the spritz can be traced back to the 19th century in the Veneto region of Italy. Austrian soldiers stationed in the area found the local wines too strong and began diluting them with a "spritz" (a splash) of soda water. This simple yet ingenious method of tempering wine laid the foundation for the modern spritz. Over time, the drink evolved, incorporating various liquors, bitters, and liqueurs.

THE ANATOMY OF A SPRITZ

At its core, a spritz is a cocktail consisting of three basic components:

· Aromatic Base: This is usually an aperitif or liqueur, such as Aperol, Campari, or St-Germain. These ingredients provide the primary flavour profile, ranging from bitter to sweet.

· Bubbly Element: Traditionally, this is Prosecco, an Italian sparkling wine, but other sparkling wines, champagne or even white wine can be used. This component adds the essential effervescence that characterises the spritz.

· Splash of Soda: A final splash of soda water lightens the drink and enhances its refreshing qualities.

The beauty of the spritz lies in its flexibility. While the classic Aperol Spritz (Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water) remains a staple, countless variations exist, and it’s a constantly evolving picture, each offering a unique twist on the traditional formula. One such new addition to the world of spritz is Doladira, an aperitif inspired by the Dolomites, and created in Burgundy, crafted using rhubarb and natural alpine ingredients. It strikes the perfect balance of bitter, acidic, botanical and saline flavours on the palate.

Refreshment and Effervescence

The combination of sparkling wine and soda water creates a bubbly, invigorating beverage perfect for hot weather. The light, crisp nature of a spritz provides a cooling effect that makes it an ideal choice for summer sipping. The effervescence not only refreshes the palate but also adds a sense of celebration to any occasion.

Low Alcohol Content

Compared to many other cocktails, spritz drinks typically have a lower alcohol content. This makes them suitable for daytime drinking and larger social gatherings, where you can enjoy several drinks without overly feeling the effects. The balance of flavours and the dilution from soda water ensure that the alcohol is present but not overpowering.

Versatility and Experimentation

The spritz’s basic structure allows for endless experimentation. From the choice of aperitif to the type of sparkling wine and the addition of fresh fruits or herbs, there’s a spritz for every taste. Popular variations include:

Hugo Spritz: Made with elderflower liqueur, Prosecco, soda water, and garnished with mint and lime.

Limoncello Spritz: Combining limoncello, Prosecco, and soda water, often garnished with lemon slices.

Negroni Sbagliato: A twist on the classic Negroni, using sparkling wine instead of gin, along with Campari and sweet vermouth.
 

Aesthetic Appeal

Let’s face it: spritz drinks are Instagram-worthy. The vibrant colours, often garnished with slices of citrus or sprigs of fresh herbs, make for visually appealing beverages. Whether served in elegant wine glasses or rustic tumblers, a spritz is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds.

Cultural Resonance

The spritz is more than just a drink; it’s a cultural icon, particularly in Italy. The tradition of the aperitivo, where friends gather in the early evening to enjoy light snacks and drinks, is deeply ingrained in Italian lifestyle. The spritz, with its convivial nature, embodies this spirit of relaxation and social connection, which resonates with people around the world looking to embrace a similar lifestyle.

Creating your own spritz at home is simple and rewarding. Here’s a basic guide to get you started with our new favourite:

Doladira ‘The Perfect Spritz’ Recipe

Ingredients:

3 Doladira
2 sparkling wine
1 part soda water
Ice
Rosemary sprig (for garnish)

How to make:

· Place several cubes of ice into a rocks glass.

· Pour in the sparkling wine, followed by the Doladira.

· Add a splash of soda water.

· Stir gently to combine.

· Garnish with the rosemary sprig.

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to find your perfect blend. Try swapping different aperitifs for different flavour profiles, use flavoured soda water for an extra twist and try out different garnishes.