Elegant, low on alcohol and ready in a flash, these 3 Spritz variations are your new summer BFFs

But heat and alcohol are a dangerous combination, and even if you take all the necessary precautions (drinking slowly and in moderation, keeping yourself hydrated and making sure you eat), that second or third Margarita in the sun will likely go straight to your head. 

The solution to get just the right amount of buzzed? Spritzes! A classic pre-dinner aperitivo, the Spritz has been a pillar of Italian drinking culture for centuries. Usually a combination of prosecco and liqueur topped up with sparkling water, it is the perfect low ABV drink for summer.

The ubiquitous Aperol Spritz likely holds no secrets for you at this point, so here are 3 less common Spritzes to change it up and surprise your friends.

St-Germain Spritz

Light and refreshing, this chic French take on a Spritz is the perfect low ABV cocktail for every occasion. The sweet and subtle elderflower notes ideally complement the dryness of the sparkling wine, making it oh so easy to drink.  

Combine 2 oz St-Germain, 3 oz dry sparkling wine and 1 oz sparkling water over ice in a Collins glass. Stir gently and garnish with a lemon twist.

Campari Spritz

For something more characterful, you can’t go wrong with a ruby red Campari Spritz. Campari is famous for its bold, bitter taste, with heady notes of orange, grapefruit, herbs and spices. It is far more complex than Aperol and doesn’t have its sweetness. At 48 proof, it also makes a stronger drink.

Combine 2 oz Campari, 3 oz prosecco and 1 oz sparkling water over ice in a rocks glass. Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.

Cocchi Americano Spritz

Vermouth is making a comeback, and with the addition of grapefruit juice, this zesty, thirst-quenching Spritz ticks all the right summer drink boxes.

Combine 2 oz Cocchi Americano Vermouth and 2/3 oz fresh white grapefruit juice over ice in a highball glass. Top up with prosecco. Stir gently and garnish with a grapefruit wedge and a sprig of mint.