If a trendy, fashionable and refreshing cocktail that screams Europe is what you are looking for, the Aperol Spritz is it.  Perfect for the spring and summer, (or all year round in Europe) this beautiful orange spritzer has a fun and slightly bitter taste.  

 

In a martini pitcher, pour 12 oz Prosecco, 8 oz Aperol, 4 oz club soda (make sure to always pour the Prosecco first otherwise the Aperol will sit at the bottom) and stir thoroughly until combined.  Toss in a thick cut slice of orange or two for garnish, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.  The spritz can be made 2 hours ahead of time.  

 

To serve, fill a stemmed, wide barrel wine glass with ice.  Pour over the ice, garnish with a thick cut slice of orange and serve with a straw (as they do in Europe!).  

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For something less bitter, try substituting the Aperol for St. Germain and garnish with a thick slice of grapefruit instead of the orange.