How to Enjoy Aperol this Winter: Aperol Spritz Gift Guide
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Who says Aperol is simply for summer? This iconic Italian aperitif isn’t just the perfect fit for sunny afternoons—it’s a year-round favorite. As the days grow shorter and the nights cozier, Aperol brings a bright, zesty twist to winter gatherings.
Whether you’re crafting warm sips, compiling spritz-inspired cocktail gift sets, or upgrading your winter bar cart, this guide has everything you need to keep the Aperol vibes alive over the holiday and beyond. Ready to spritz up the season? Let’s go!
Aperol gift guide
Looking for the perfect Aperol Spritz gifts this holiday season? Whether you’re shopping for a seasoned Spritz fan or someone new to the Aperol scene, these curated gift ideas are sure to hit the spot.
Aperol Spritz gift box
The ultimate perfect Aperol Spritz starts with a thoughtfully curated gift box. A classic set might include a bottle of Aperol, a chilled bottle of Prosecco, and soda water, complete with some lovely glassware. Add seasonal garnishes like dried orange slices or rosemary sprigs for a festive flair. It’s a ready-made kit for recreating the classic Aperol Spritz at home—ideal for holiday parties!
DIY & personalised Aperol gift set ideas
For a more personal touch, consider building your own spritz gift box. Start with the essentials: Aperol and Prosecco, of course, then add a few extras to make it truly unique. Include tools like a jigger or mixing spoon for the budding mixologist, or seasonal garnishes like cranberry juice, cinnamon sticks, or blood orange wheels for a winter-ready twist.
Clever ways to personalize your gift set:
- For a serious cocktail enthusiast, include a recipe book or handwritten Spritz recipe cards.
- For a host, add stylish napkins or some pretty coasters.
- For a touch of luxury, package the set in a stylish gift box or basket, or include a premium accessory like a decorative cocktail shaker.
These sets are perfect for winter gatherings and holiday celebrations, offering not just a gift but setting the scene for an experience to boot.
Aperol merch & apparel
If you’re shopping for a gift that’s a little different (and a whole lot stylish), Aperol merch has you covered. Level up your gifting game with the Aperol Spritz Crewneck or Aperol Puff Hoodie—perfect for chilly winter days when your loved ones need a little extra warmth. Want something versatile? The Aperol Knitted Vest is a fun, trendy layer they can throw on over their favorite basics.
These pieces, part of the Aperol Tennis Collection, bring a sporty-meets-chic vibe that’s so easy to love. Pair a crewneck or vest with a Spritz gift set, and you’ve got a present that’s thoughtful, stylish, and perfect for the season. Because really, what’s better than a gift that keeps them snug (or smug) while they sip their favorite cocktails?
Also see: 6 of the Best Gin and Aperol Cocktails to Sip this Summer
Aperol in winter: venturing beyond the Spritz
Aperol Spritz is the perfect summertime cocktail, but it’s also a delicious year-round favorite. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser. In winter, we like to give it a seasonal twist by swapping club soda for spiced cranberry soda or adding a garnish of rosemary and dried citrus. It’s proof that the Spritz isn’t just ideal for lingering warm-weather afternoons—it’s equally at home at cozy holiday gatherings and festive winter dinners.
In fact, Aperol’s bittersweet citrus and herbal base make it a perfect match for colder months. It pairs beautifully with seasonal flavors like blood orange, cranberry, and warming spices, bringing a snug, sophisticated vibe to your holiday clinkers. Try it in a Hot Aperol Toddy with apple cider and cinnamon or explore new Spritz variations with festive garnishes. In short, this multifaceted aperitif is a gorgeous trick to have up your sleeve for tasty wintertime celebrations.
Read next: 20 Cocktails with Aperol to Try Today
Seasonal Aperol recipes for winter
Winter Aperol Spritz
The Winter Aperol Spritz adds a cozy twist to the classic favorite, perfect for seasonal gatherings. Start by combining 3 oz Aperol, 3 oz Prosecco, and 1 oz cranberry juice in a glass filled with ice. Add 2 oz club soda (or cranberry-flavored soda for extra oomph).
Garnish with an orange wedge, an orange zest twist, and a sprig of rosemary for a touch of seasonal festiveness. Serve immediately to enjoy the sparkling blend of bittersweet and fruity flavors.
Pairing suggestions: This cocktail pairs well with roasted garlic and rosemary focaccia or a creamy artichoke dip for starters. In terms of main courses, try a citrus-herb roasted chicken or a rich butternut squash risotto. For dessert, consider spiced apple tartlets or dark chocolate orange truffles, both of which play off the cocktail’s bittersweet and aromatic notes.
Sloe Gin Aperol Fizz
The Sloe Gin Aperol Fizz is a fruity, aromatic delight that’s perfect for festive gatherings or indulgent evenings in. To make it, start by filling a large balloon or Copa glass with ice. Pour in 1.5 oz Aperol and 0.5 oz sloe gin, then top with 2 oz club soda and 2 oz Prosecco for a fizzy finish.
For the garnish, gently rub a sprig of rosemary between your hands to release its aroma before dropping it into the glass. Add an orange slice and a few raspberries for a festive finish.
Pairing suggestions: Serve it alongside a charcuterie board with creamy camembert, prosciutto, and spiced nuts, or pair with mini roasted beet and goat cheese tartlets for a flavorful appetizer. For mains, herb-crusted salmon or orange-glazed duck complement the cocktail’s citrus and herbal notes, while desserts like cranberry-orange scones or raspberry tarts mirror its fruity garnish.
Hot Aperol Toddy
The Hot Aperol Toddy is a delightful winter cocktail with a balance of citrus, spice, and warmth. Heat 3.5 oz Aperol, 0.5 cup apple cider, 1 tablespoon honey, and a cinnamon stick in a saucepan over low heat until just simmering. Pour into two heat-proof mugs, top with 1 cup Prosecco, and garnish with orange slices and extra cinnamon sticks for a festive touch.
Pairing suggestions: This warm cocktail pairs wonderfully with baked brie drizzled with honey or spiced roasted nuts for starters. For the main course, try a savory pork roast with apple and sage, which complements the toddy’s apple and cinnamon notes. Finish with desserts like warm apple crisp or gingerbread cake to round out the flavors. Ideal for holiday evenings!
Turn your soul orange: Loris Contro on Aperol (Creative Cocktails, Food Pairings & Trends)
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Now you know, cocktail fans! Aperol fits seamlessly into winter drinking trends with its bittersweet flavors, perfect for seasonal cocktails and festive celebrations. Its versatility makes it a star in curated Aperol Spritz bundles and creative Aperol gift sets, offering thoughtful options for holiday gifting. Explore more Aperol-inspired gifts and cocktail recipes for holiday drinkspiration.