The spritz is one of those drinks that manages to feel easy and glamorous at the same time. It asks very little of you beyond something sparkling, something flavorful, plenty of ice, and the good sense to drink it before dinner drifts into the rest of the evening. That is probably why the spritz has gone from Venetian staple to global habit without losing its charm.
It also happens to be one of Venice’s quiet gifts to the world. What began as wine softened with a splash of water has evolved into a whole category of drinks built around balance, bitterness, and bubbles. I dive much deeper into that story in A Guide to Drinking in Venice, but for now, these are the spritz and spritz-style cocktails worth knowing at home.
Classic Spritzes Everyone Should Know
These are the drinks that define the spritz category, from Venetian originals to the bittersweet staples that have travelled far beyond Italy.
Select Aperitivo Spritz
The Select Spritz is as close as you get to the Venetian original, with a deeper bitterness and a slightly more complex profile than its brighter counterparts. It feels grounded, balanced, and very much at home alongside a plate of cicchetti.
Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is the bright orange crowd pleaser that introduced the world to aperitivo hour. Lightly bitter, gently sweet, and endlessly refreshing, it is proof that simplicity often wins.
Campari Spritz
The Campari Spritz brings more bite and depth, trading sweetness for a firmer bitterness that lingers just long enough. It is the one to reach for when you want your spritz to feel like a proper cocktail.
Cynar Spritz
Cynar gives the spritz a darker, more herbal edge, with a subtle earthiness that sets it apart. It is a slightly more thoughtful take on the format, and all the better for it.
Hugo Spritz
The Hugo is fresh, floral, and wonderfully easy to drink, with elderflower, mint, and lime keeping everything light and bright. It is the sort of drink that disappears quickly on a warm afternoon.
Campari Shakerato
Not every Italian aperitivo needs bubbles. The Campari Shakerato skips the spritz structure entirely but delivers the same refreshing, bitter hit in a colder, sleeker form.
Sgroppino
Sgroppino adds a playful twist with lemon sorbet, creating a drink that is both creamy and refreshing at once. It is unmistakably Venetian and a little more indulgent than the rest.
Spritzes Using Special Spirits
These versions lean into distinctive liqueurs and aperitivos, bringing more character, depth, and a slightly more adventurous edge to the spritz.
Italicus Spritz
The Italicus Spritz introduces bergamot and delicate citrus notes that feel refined and quietly complex. It is a subtle shift from the classics, but one worth making.
Amaro Santoni Spritz
This spritz leans into a softer, rosier bitterness with enough depth to keep things interesting. It feels elegant without trying too hard.
Ramazzotti Aperitivo Rosato Mio
With its floral and slightly spiced profile, this spritz offers a gentler take on bitterness. It is an easy transition for those moving beyond Aperol.
Metaxa Spritz
The Metaxa Spritz brings a warmer, fruitier character that gives the drink a little more weight without losing its refreshing edge. It is generous, rounded, and quietly satisfying.
Jägermeister Spritz
Herbal and unexpectedly balanced, the Jägermeister Spritz proves that bigger flavors can still work within the spritz format. It is bold but surprisingly drinkable.
Pampelle Spritz
Pampelle brings grapefruit to the spritz, adding a bright, bittersweet citrus edge that feels instantly refreshing. It sits somewhere between Aperol and Campari in intensity, making it a perfect middle ground when you want something lively but not overpowering.
Non Alcoholic Spritzes
These prove you can keep all the balance, bitterness, and refreshment of a spritz without the alcohol and still feel like you are having a proper drink.
Wilfred’s Spritz
Wilfred’s captures the bitter orange and herbal notes of a classic spritz while keeping things lighter. It is one of the best options when you want the experience without the alcohol.
Everleaf Spritz
The Everleaf Spritz leans botanical and gently bittersweet, with enough texture to feel complete. It is thoughtful, balanced, and very easy to enjoy.
The beauty of the spritz is that it never asks for much but always delivers. Whether you stay with the Venetian classics or branch into more modern interpretations, you end up with something refreshing, balanced, and effortlessly sociable. Learn a handful of these and you will always have the right drink for the moment, preferably with a little time to enjoy it properly.