Full disclosure: the following recipes aren’t the classic Spritz cocktails that you may be familiar with. While there are indeed many ways to make a Spritz, the traditional Italian recipe consists of 3 parts prosecco, 2 parts bitter liqueur and 1 part club soda. Common variations on the Spritz include substituting any of the ingredients with fortified wines such as port and vermouth or carbonated mixers like tonics and lightly-sweetened sodas. While we love an Aperol or Campari Spritz, it’s the endless number of unique variations on this classic cocktail formula that keep us intrigued.
So get your Spritz on this summer with these low-ABV new classic cocktail recipes! As always, Top Note reminds you to drink responsibly.
For our favorite alcohol-free recipes, check out our roundup of Zero-Proof Spritz Cocktails here.
Summer Crush
Complex and herbaceous, this low-proof cocktail is perfect for spritz fans looking for a tropical-inspired twist.
Rosé Spritz
Use up an open bottle of sparkling rosé with this simple spritz recipe.
Aperol & Soda
If you’re anything like us, you love an Aperol Spritz but don’t always have Prosecco on hand. In these instances, when you're craving something bitter and bubbly, Aperol and Club Soda make for a simple and refreshing combo - you won't even miss the Prosecco!
Vespa
Fans of spritzes and dry martinis will love this bitter, earthy cocktail - and clocking in at an ultra low-proof, it’s just as perfect for leisurely afternoon happy hours as it is for long nights of partying.
Grapefruit Sbagliato
The Negroni Sbagliato is a lighter, brighter version of the classic Negroni. Typically composed of sweet vermouth, Campari, and sparkling wine, we swapped out the wine for our Sparkling Grapefruit Soda. The resulting cocktail is pleasantly bittersweet and with a lower ABV, you don't have to worry about tapping out too early in the evening.
Venetian Mask
If you're in the mood for a lighter and brighter after-dinner drink, try an Amaro Tonic. Popular in Venice where the heat and the close quarters of summer tourists can be overwhelming, we decided to name this one the Venetian Mask.
Vermouth & Tonic
When you’re in the mood for a refreshing spritz but desire a bit more body and complexity of flavor, try mixing your favorite sweet vermouth with tonic water. We love garnishing with sweet sangria olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Matt Hiel’s Featherweight
This low-ABV spritz is an “easy, sessionable, lightly bitter, super refreshing drink,” says Wollersheim Distillery bar manager Matt Hiel.
White Port & Tonic
This simple classic Portuguese apéritif is perfect for happy hour. No fancy bar tools necessary!
Mediterranean Sunset Spritz
Who says dreams don't come true? Stir up this low-ABV spritz and start planning your ultimate Mediterranean vacation!