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Paloma Aperol Spritz

A Paloma Aperol Spritz is a refreshing summer cocktail made with Aperol, grapefruit soda, tequila, fresh lime juice, and topped with prosecco.

I’m calling this the year of Aperol…my new favorite cocktail mixer. Aperol is an aperitif that has a sweet but slightly bitter taste. The slightly bitter taste makes it perfect as a mixer, especially when paired with Prosecco or Champagne.

What is an Aperitif?

An Aperitif is a drink that is served before a meal to stimulate the appetite. Prosecco and Champagne are common aperitifs which are usually dry. A digestive, on the other hand, aids in digestion and is served after a meal. Common digestives are coffee and tea. Other types of digestives are brandy and limoncello.

Prosecco vs. Champagne

Let’s get this clear…Champagne and Prosecco are both sparkling wines…and both are delicious, in my opinion! But it’s all about where the grapes are grown and the variety of grapes. Technically, to be called Champagne, the grapes must come from the Champagne region in of northeast France. The grapes are usually a pinot noir or a chardonnay variety. Prosecco comes from the northeast region of Italy and is a different grape variety than Champagne. Bottom line is that both are good choices but Prosecco is usually much less expensive.

What makes this a Paloma?

Three ingredients make this cocktail a Paloma…Tequila, grapefruit juice, and lime juice. A Paloma is a very popular cocktail in Mexico. In fact, it’s more popular than the traditional Margarita.

Check out some of my other cocktails using Aperol and a couple of my other favorite cocktails.

Aperol Spritz – a traditional Aperol Spritz
Blood orange Aperol Spritz – definitely save this recipe for when blood oranges are in season
Sea Breeze Cocktail – a summer classic that is stunningly pretty as well as delicious
Frose – just like it sounds, frozen Rose wine…perfect for summertime

If you try any of my recipes, drop me a note in the comments section below. I’d love to hear from you!