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Whether you’re Aperol spritz curious, Aperol spritz skeptical, or someone who just wants to drink an Aperol spritz in peace, we are firmly into the Season of Spritz. And while I love a traditional spritz to transport me from my sweltering apartment to the gentle breezes of the Amalfi Coast, a new TikTok video from home cook Ereka Vetrini encouraged me to take things a step further.
In the video, Vetrini makes a summery Aperol spritz–sangria hybrid — using a French press! According to Vetrini, “[T]he press forces the fruit flavors to infuse into the drink quicker.” I was so curious about this idea that I had to conduct a very serious midday cocktail experiment (all in the name of research, of course!).
How to Make an Aperol Spritz Sangria Using a French Press
Vetrini’s fizzy sangria makes two generously poured cocktails and is easy to riff on. Here’s how to do it.
I’m already a fan of both sangria and the Aperol Spritz, so perhaps I was primed to enjoy this concoction. That said, I found the preparation easy to follow and the flavors enjoyable. The Aperol helps cut the sweetness of the fruit infusion and makes for a balanced and refreshing summer beverage. Plus, because of the French press, it’s a lot faster to make than classic sangria, which ideally should be refrigerated overnight.
A few fellow testers have noted that if you prefer a more spritz-y cocktail, you can add a touch of additional Prosecco to top off your drink with a bit more fizz. I slightly missed the “fruit-on-the bottom” aspect of traditional Sangria and would consider adding back in a few pieces of my infused fruit to the glass.
Is it a super authentic Aperol Spritz? No. Is it a super authentic sangria? No. But I think that this hybrid is a really tasty, make-ahead summer cocktail that I’d readily make again for a little work-from-home happy hour or weekend staycation. Saluti!
