Loris Contro on Aperol: Creative Cocktails, Food Pairings, and Trends 

Loris Contro, UK Brand Ambassador for Campari Group, has spent more than 10 years introducing Aperol Spritz nationwide. Born in Veneto and trained in London, he’s passionate about all things Aperol and he’s ready to turn your soul orange! We recently got to chat with him to get some tips on how to use Aperol in cocktail making, food pairing advice and the latest trends.  

TM: How can Aperol be used creatively in cocktails beyond the Spritz?

Loris: Aperol is an exciting bitter liqueur to use in cocktails because it not only adds additional fruity and floral notes, but also herbaceous notes which enhance all the other flavours  in a drink and imparts a pleasant mouthfeel due to its higher density. 

TM: What is the best food pairing for an Aperol Spritz?

The most important thing is that the quality of food is high. Here are a few options: 

1. Nocellara olives and taralli.  
2. Fried calamari with lemon and parsley dip.  
3. Smoked mozzarella, crumbled pistachio and mortadella. 

TM: Are there any unusual or surprising pairings that you recommend?

Seafood ceviche served with plantain chips is simply fabulous.

TM: What makes Aperol unique compared to other aperitifs?

Its approachability (simplicity in flavour and lower alcohol content). Also, its sweetness is bigger than its bitterness, which results in a pleasant mouthfeel. 

TM: What makes Aperol’s taste distinct and recognisable?

Its citrus notes with a light and herbaceous taste and a long aromatic finish.  

TM: What are some emerging trends in cocktails that Aperol is a part of?

It is now being used in modern classic cocktails (like the East 8 Hold Up, Paper Plane, and Naked & Famous) which have started to make their appearance on more and more cocktail menus across the UK. 

How to make an Aperol Spritz perfectly, every time

INGREDIENTS 

• 75 ml Prosecco 

• 50 ml Aperol 

• 25 ml Soda water 

• Fresh orange slice, to garnish 

• Ice 

METHOD  

1. Fill a white wine glass with ice 
2. Pour in the Prosecco 
3. Followed by the Aperol  
4. Top with a splash of soda water 
5. Garnish with a slice of orange 

Ready to turn your soul orange? Read our guide to the 20 best cocktails you can make with Aperol, and visit the Aperol website for more drinkspiration!