Happy Summer Solstice! This is my favorite time of year – beautiful weather, vacations, the beach, backyard BBQs, and longer days. I love entertaining in the summertime, and I recently discovered the perfect summer cocktail for my guests to enjoy.

The Aperol Spritz is a classic Italian apertif (pre-dinner cocktail) that is light and refreshing. Apertifs are meant to spark the appetite without overwhelming the senses.

The Aperol Spritz 3-2-1 recipe is a simple and easy to follow: 3 parts prosecco, 2 parts Aperol and 1 part club soda. I like to add an orange slice and sprig of fresh rosemary from my garden for the perfect combination of bitter and sweet tastes.

Aperol Spritz

Serves 1

3 parts Prosecco
2 parts Aperol
1 splash soda
Serve with on the rocks in wine glass or rocks glass
Garnish with a slice of orange and rosemary

Fill a tumbler or large wine glass with ice. Fill the glass 2/3 full with sparkling wine. Add the shot of Aperol. Top with club soda, stir well, then add the orange slice and fresh rosemary.

Happy #SpritzBreak!