There’s a summer spritz for everyone! 6 cocktails to try if you don't like Aperol
Bored of Aperols? Not a fan of the taste? Don't worry there's still plenty of ways to get in on the spritz action
It wouldn't be summer without a spritz in hand. And in the last few years, Aperol Spritzes have dominated the summer drinks scene. From the moment the sun first properly arrives in April, to those last hazy days of September, you can't walk past a pub garden, BBQ or after work drinks without spotting an Aperol Spritz. But if you just don't get the hype around the often bitter cocktail then do not worry as there's still plenty of ways to experience the spritz summer in 2025.
A spritz cocktail is essentially, some variation of prosecco/other fizzy wine, soda water and liqueur, oh and topped with lots of ice of course. Thankfully, many of our favourite bars and restaurants have caught on to the fact that not everyone loves an Aperol, and offer a variety of different flavours to try.
So whether you're making one at home, or ordering one next time you head to the pub, these are the six best Aperol Spritz alternatives to try.
For The Sweet Cocktail Drinker - Hugo Spritz
If you'd usually order a super sweet cocktail like a Porn Star Martini and don't enjoy having a drink that tastes like alcohol, then you need to try a Hugo Spritz this summer.
It's made with prosecco, soda water, ice, mint, lime and most importantly elderflower liqueur (we like to use St Germain in ours). The elderflower liqueur gives it a sweet flavour, without being over powering and the mint and lime give a hint of freshness.
For Amalfi Coast Vibes - Limoncello Spritz
Need a trip to an Italian beach but stuck in the UK? This spritz will cure all those holiday woes, instantly transporting you to Positano. The limoncello spritz is made from prosecco, soda water and limoncello. It's got the sharpness of lemons, but is nowhere near as bitter as an Aperol Spritz. So if you don't want something super sweet, nor super bitter, this is the perfect middle ground.
For a Classic French Drink - Lillet Spritz
If you haven't heard of Lillet yet, this is your sign. It's a classic French wine based aperitif and there's a variety of ways you can serve it, however for summer, it has to be Lillet Spritz. Unlike other spritzes it doesn't have the addition of a prosecco, instead it's 2.5 parts Lillet Blanc to 2.5 parts soda water, topped with ice and a slice of orange. Sublime!
For Negroni Lovers - Campari Spitz
If you like a bitter drink, but don't get the hype about Aperols then maybe consider a Campari Spritz. Campari is the main liqueur used in a negroni, so if you like a negroni, consider this your summer version. It's even more bitter than an Aperol and is made simply from Campari, prosecco and soda.
For Gin Fans - Bramble Spritz
A Bramble is a British classic made with gin and Creme De Mure aka blackberry liqueur, and while we love it all year around, there's something extra special about giving it a summer spin. A Bramble Spritz has gin, creme de mure, soda water, sparkling wine and lemon juice. Straight out of an English garden!
For The Trending Drink -Rhubarb Spritz
Rhubarb is dominating the drinks scene right now, with the vegetable (yes it's a vegetable) popping up in all number of cocktails. And so why not try it in a spritz? The main ingredients are rhubarb syrup, prosecco, soda water and ice.
Lydia Venn is Cosmopolitan UK’s Senior Entertainment and Lifestyle Writer. She covers everything from TV and film, to the latest celebrity news. She also writes across our work/life section regularly creating quizzes, covering exciting new food releases and sharing the latest interior must-haves. In her role she’s interviewed everyone from Margot Robbie to Niall Horan, and her work has appeared on an episode of The Kardashians. After completing a degree in English at the University of Exeter, Lydia moved into fashion journalism, writing for the Daily Express, before working as Features Editor at The Tab, where she spoke on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour and Talk Radio. She has an encyclopedic knowledge of Gilmore Girls and 00s teen movies, and in her free time can be found with a margarita in hand watching the Real Housewives on repeat. Find her on LinkedIn.
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