From May 9th to 11th, Milan becomes the capital of the Italian aperitif scene with the Aperitivo Festival, an unmissable event for anyone who loves to toast in style. One of the main stars of the event will be the Spritz, which is much more than just a cocktail: it’s a true symbol of the Italian aperitif tradition.
A bit of history
The Spritz was born almost by accident in the 1800s when northern Italy was under the rule of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Austrian soldiers found the local wines too strong and began diluting them with sparkling water. This is where the name “Spritz” comes from, derived from the German word spritzen, meaning to spray or splash.
At first, it was just white wine and soda, but in the 1920s, especially in Venice, the idea of adding a bitter emerged. This is how the Spritz we know today was born: fresh, colorful, and perfect for the aperitif. In the 2000s, thanks to Aperol’s advertising, the Spritz became hugely popular across Italy and abroad. Today, there are many variations of this cocktail, but they all share the same spirit: enjoying an aperitif with friends.
Check out these 10 stunning rooftop bars in Milan!
More than Aperol
When people talk about Spritz nowadays, almost everyone immediately thinks of Aperol Spritz: the most famous version, with its bright orange color, light and sweet-bitter taste. It’s the perfect choice for anyone who wants something fresh and easy, ideal for kicking off an evening in a light and refreshing way.
But there’s more to the Spritz than just Aperol. A more intense and historic variant is the Campari Spritz: same ingredients (Prosecco, bitter, and soda), but with a stronger flavor and a deep red color. Then there’s the Select Spritz, the authentic Venetian recipe, featuring a more aromatic and spicy bitter, created in Venice in the 1920s. If you want to try the Spritz “as it was originally made”, this is the one to go for. If you prefer something more floral and refreshing, then the Hugo Spritz is your cocktail: made with elderflower syrup, lime, mint, soda, and Prosecco. Another option is the Cynar Spritz, with a more herbal and complex taste, thanks to an amaro made from artichokes. For those who love citrusy, sunny flavors, there’s the Limoncello Spritz, a summery and fragrant version, or the Rhubarb Spritz, often made with Zucca Rhubarb, offering a smooth and slightly bitter taste. If you prefer something simpler, try the White Spritz, which skips the bitter and is made with just sparkling wine and soda – perfect for those who want something light and clean.
Pair it with art: learn about the Ambrosian Pinacoteca in Milan
Creative approach
The Spritz is also one of the official cocktails of the IBA (International Bartenders Association) and is now famous worldwide. Despite its global popularity, it continues to evolve creatively while always staying true to its original spirit: fresh, social, and perfect for starting a fun evening.
The Aperitivo Festival is the perfect opportunity to explore all the different variations of this legendary cocktail. Whether you’re team Aperol, a Cynar fan, or looking for your new favorite mix, there’s definitely a Spritz that will make you say, “This one is my perfect match.”
Want to learn Italian in Milan? Check out our school!
Scuola Leonardo da Vinci Milan
Thanks to its prestigious universities and academies, Milan is the elected place of education for numerous Italian and international students.
