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15 Popular Aperol Cocktails to Try

Aperol cocktails bring a burst of vibrant flavor and effervescent charm to any occasion, making them an irresistible choice for those seeking a taste of Italian sophistication. 

aperol cocktail with orange garnish

Whether you’re basking in the warm glow of a summer sunset with an Aperol spritz or mingling at a chic rooftop bar, Aperol cocktails are the epitome of stylish refreshment. 

With their signature orange hue and bittersweet taste, these cocktails offer a delightful balance between zesty citrus notes, herbal undertones, and a hint of bitterness. If you have a bottle of Aperol to use, the possibilities are endless!

Sip on an Aperol Spritz while savoring a leisurely brunch or let the Aperol Negroni ignite your senses during an elegant evening affair. 

Allow the enchanting flavors of Aperol to transport you to the sun-soaked terraces of Italy and indulge in the timeless pleasure of these refreshing concoctions. 

Check out Aperol cocktails, from the classic Aperol spritz to the Paper Plane cocktail and more!

Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz is a delightful blend of Aperol, a vibrant Italian aperitif, with sparkling wine and a splash of soda water.

Aperol Spritz Cocktail

This iconic cocktail boasts a beautiful orange hue and a bittersweet flavor profile that combines herbal and citrus notes

Served over ice in a wine glass and garnished with a slice of orange, the classic Aperol spritz recipe is a perfect companion for warm summer days and social gatherings.

Loved for its balance of sweetness and bitterness, the Aperol Spritz is a crowd favorite that captures the essence of the Italian aperitivo culture. 

Take a sip, savor the harmonious flavors, and let the Aperol Spritz transport you to the lively streets of Italy. You could also cool off with a frozen Aperol spritz in the blender if you prefer a slushie drink!

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Paper Plane

The Paper Plane cocktail is a modern classic that brings together bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and freshly squeezed lemon juice.

paper plane drink on the bar

One of the most popular Aperol cocktails, this drink offers a bold and complex flavor profile with a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness. 

Served in a chilled coupe glass, it is a cocktail that commands attention and sophistication.

Loved for its intriguing blend of ingredients and its ability to surprise and delight the palate, the Paper Plane is a must-try for those seeking a unique and memorable drinking experience. 

Take a sip, let the flavors unfold on your tongue, and allow the Paper Plane cocktail to take you on a journey of taste and discovery.

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Aperol Sour

The Aperol Sour is a refreshing twist on a classic Aperol spritz cocktail.

Aperol Sour
source: agratefulmeal.com

Combining the zesty brightness of Aperol with the tanginess of freshly squeezed lemon juice and the subtle sweetness of simple syrup, this drink strikes a harmonious balance of flavors. 

Served over ice in a rocks glass and garnished with a lemon twist, it offers a vibrant and invigorating experience, loved for its lively and citrusy character.

Take a sip, let the tangy notes dance on your palate, and allow the Aperol Sour to awaken your senses to all of the delicious cocktails to make with Aperol!

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Nordic Summer

The Nordic Summer cocktail is a delightful fusion of Aperol, elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and sparkling water or club soda.

Nordic Summer
source: moodymixologist.com

This Scandinavian-inspired concoction exudes a light and floral essence with a touch of citrus from lemon or lime juice. It’s one of my favorite Aperol cocktails and hidden gems on a cocktail menu!  

Served over ice in a highball glass and garnished with a sprig of fresh mint, it offers a refreshing and invigorating experience.

Loved for its delicate and nuanced flavors, the Nordic Summer is a must-try for those seeking a taste of the Nordic region’s elegance and natural beauty. 

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Aperol Cosmopolitan

The Aperol Cosmopolitan is a modern twist on the classic cosmopolitan cocktail.

Aperol Cosmopolitan
source: basilandbubbly.com

Blending the vibrant bitterness of Aperol with the tartness of cranberry juice, the smoothness of vodka, and a touch of citrus, this cocktail offers a harmonious fusion of flavors. 

Served in a chilled martini glass and garnished with a twist of orange peel, it exudes sophistication and style.

Take a sip, embrace the cosmopolitan vibes, and let the Aperol Cosmopolitan elevate your cocktail game.

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Aperol Negroni Sour

The Aperol Negroni Sour is a delightful twist on the classic Negroni cocktail.

Aperol Negroni Sour 
source: emilylaurae.com

Combining the bitter and herbal notes of Aperol with the richness of gin, the complexity of sweet vermouth, and a touch of freshly squeezed lemon juice, this cocktail offers a unique and tantalizing flavor profile. 

Served over ice in a rocks glass and garnished with a twist of orange peel, it presents a sophisticated and well-balanced drinking experience.

Loved for its bold and intriguing combination of ingredients, the Aperol Negroni Sour is a must-try for cocktail enthusiasts looking to elevate their taste buds.

Take a sip, let the flavors intertwine on your palate, and allow this cocktail to become a harmonious symphony of taste.

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Aperol and Soda

Aperol and Soda is a simple yet satisfying cocktail that showcases the vibrant and bitter-sweet flavors of Aperol.

Aperol and Soda
source: keepingitsimpleblog.com

With just two ingredients—Aperol and soda water—this drink is effortless to make and perfect for those seeking a light and low-alcohol option. 

If you really enjoy the flavor of Aperol, this is one of our favorite Aperol cocktails for its simplicity!

Served over ice in a highball glass and garnished with a slice of orange, it delivers a crisp and refreshing experience.

Loved for its simplicity and its ability to highlight the distinct flavors of Aperol, Aperol and Soda is a go-to choice for those looking for a delightful and easy-going drink. 

Take a sip, feel the fizz dance on your tongue, and let this uncomplicated cocktail quench your thirst.

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Aperol Tonic

Aperol Tonic is a vibrant and invigorating cocktail that brings together the bitter-sweetness of Aperol with the zest of tonic water.

Aperol Tonic
source: yuzubakes.com

This refreshing combination creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both delightful and satisfying. These Aperol cocktails are similar to the traditional Aperol spritz, but they cut out the sparkling wine for a lighter drink.

Served over ice in a highball glass and garnished with a slice of orange or a sprig of fresh herbs, it offers a visually appealing and tantalizing drinking experience.

Loved for its simplicity and its ability to quench your thirst with a touch of sophistication, Aperol Tonic is a perfect choice for any occasion. 

Take a sip, let the bubbles tickle your taste buds, and allow this cocktail to transport you to a world of refreshment.

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Aperol Americano

The Aperol Americano is a delightful and vibrant cocktail that combines the bitter-sweet flavors of Aperol with the herbal and citrus notes of Campari and sweet vermouth.

Aperol Americano
source: ramshacklepantry.com

Served over ice in a rocks glass and garnished with a slice of orange, it presents a vibrant and inviting appearance.

Loved for its balance of flavors and its ability to stimulate the senses, the Aperol Americano is a classic cocktail that deserves attention. 

Take a sip, let the layers of bitterness and sweetness unfold on your palate, and allow this cocktail to be your passport to a moment of timeless elegance.

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Paloma Aperol Spritz

The Paloma Aperol Spritz is a lively and refreshing twist on the classic Paloma cocktail.

Paloma Aperol Spritz
source: krazykitchenmom.com

Combining the zesty flavors of Aperol with the tangy sweetness of grapefruit juice and a splash of soda water, this cocktail offers a vibrant and invigorating taste experience. 

Served over ice in a salt-rimmed glass and garnished with a slice of grapefruit or a sprig of fresh herbs, it exudes a tropical and summery vibe.

Loved for its bright and citrusy profile, the Paloma Aperol Spritz is an ideal choice for those seeking a light and fruity drink. 

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Grapefruit Aperol Cocktail

The Grapefruit Aperol Cocktail is a delightful fusion of Aperol, freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, and a hint of sweetness.

Grapefruit Aperol Cocktail
source: garnishwithlemon.com

This cocktail offers a perfect balance of tangy citrus and bittersweet notes, creating a harmonious and refreshing drinking experience. 

Served over ice in a highball glass and garnished with a slice of grapefruit or a sprig of rosemary, it boasts an appealing appearance and a delightful aroma.

Loved for its invigorating flavors and its ability to awaken the senses, the Grapefruit Aperol Cocktail is a must-try for grapefruit lovers and those looking for a vibrant and citrus-forward drink. 

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Bourbon Aperol Cocktail

The Bourbon Aperol Cocktail is a sophisticated and bold drink that brings together the robustness of bourbon with the bittersweet allure of Aperol.

Bourbon Aperol Cocktail
source: garnishwithlemon.com

This cocktail offers a complex flavor profile with hints of caramel, citrus, and herbal notes. 

Served over ice in a rocks glass and garnished with an orange twist, it exudes elegance and charm.

Loved for its depth of flavors and its ability to create a refined drinking experience, the Bourbon Aperol Cocktail is a go-to choice for whiskey enthusiasts and those seeking a cocktail with character. 

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Contessa

The Contessa cocktail is a delightful blend of Aperol, gin, and sweet vermouth. This sophisticated drink presents a complex harmony of bitter, herbal, and floral flavors

Contessa
source: acommunaltable.com

Served in a chilled martini glass and garnished with an orange twist, it exudes elegance and refinement.

Loved for its refined taste and its ability to captivate the palate with its intricate flavors, the Contessa is a must-try for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a unique and sophisticated drink. 

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Hot Aperol

Hot Aperol is a delightful and unexpected twist on the classic Aperol cocktail.

Hot Aperol
source: punchdrink.com

This warm and comforting concoction combines the bitter-sweet flavors of Aperol with the soothing warmth of hot water or tea. 

Served in a heatproof glass or mug and garnished with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick, it offers a cozy and invigorating drinking experience.

Loved for its unique and comforting flavors, Hot Aperol is the perfect choice for chilly evenings or when you’re in need of a warm pick-me-up. 

Take a sip, feel the warmth envelop your senses, and allow this cocktail to provide you with a comforting and aromatic journey.

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Rhyme and Reason

The Rhyme and Reason cocktail is a sophisticated and well-balanced creation that showcases the versatility of Aperol.

Rhyme and Reason
source: thespruceeats.com

This delightful drink combines Aperol with a harmonious blend of ingredients, such as citrus juice, herbal liqueur, and a touch of sweetness.

Served over ice in a chilled coupe glass and garnished with a twist of lemon peel or a sprig of thyme, it presents an elegant and aromatic appearance.

Loved for its complexity and its ability to surprise the palate, the Rhyme and Reason is a must-try for those seeking a unique and enchanting drink.

Take a sip, let the flavors unfold in perfect harmony, and allow this cocktail to ignite your sense of adventure.

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aperol cocktail with orange garnish

15 Aperol Cocktail Recipes

Yield: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Learn how to use your bottle of Aperol with these Aperol cocktail ideas and recipes!

Instructions

    1. Pick your favorite recipe
    2. Gather all the needed ingredients
    3. Prep a tasty cocktail in less than 5 minutes

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    15 Popular Aperol Cocktails to Try
    Please drink responsibly, be fully accountable with your alcohol consumption, and show others respect.

    Written by Paul Kushner

    I have always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. My restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time I turned 17 I was serving tables, and by 19 I was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.

    In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, I opened my first restaurant/bar. In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

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