Aperol is a popular Italian aperitif that has a bright orange color and a bitter-sweet taste. It’s often enjoyed mixed with prosecco or soda water as a pre-dinner drink. But what ingredients make up this distinctive libation? Aperol contains a secret blend of herbs, roots, and fruits that give it its unique flavor profile. In this article, we’ll explore the key components that go into making Aperol and how they contribute to its taste and aroma.
Key Ingredients
Bitter Orange
The predominant flavor in Aperol comes from bitter orange (also known as Seville orange). The bitter orange gives Aperol its signature orange hue and imbues it with hints of tart citrus. Bitter orange contains the compound hesperidin, which gives the fruit its bitter taste. This bitter quality balances out the sweetness of the other ingredients. Between 15-20% of Aperol’s content comes from concentrated bitter orange essence.
Gentian
Another prime ingredient in Aperol is gentian root extract. Gentian is a bitter herb that has been used for centuries in European liquors and medicines. Its bitter taste acts as a palate cleanser and digestive aid. The powerful bitterness of gentian balances the sweetness of Aperol and adds to its complexity. Gentian root also contributes to the drink’s amber color.
Rhubarb
Rhubarb root is also added to Aperol to provide tart, earthy notes. Rhubarb has a crisp, acidic quality that brightens up the flavor. The plant’s roots are dried and then macerated in alcohol to extract their flavor. Just a small amount of rhubarb root extract adds another layered element to Aperol’s taste profile.
Other Herbs & Roots
In addition to the key ingredients above, Aperol contains extracts of other aromatic herbs, roots, and barks. These include ingredients like saffron, cinnamon, cloves, quinine and chamomile. Each adds its own subtle nuance to the drink’s flavor and fragrance. The full recipe is a closely guarded secret, but it’s the alchemy of these botanical essences that makes Aperol unique.
Sweeteners
To achieve an ideal balance of flavors, Aperol also contains added sugar and caramel. The sugar rounds out the bitterness with essential sweetness. The caramel contributes additional rich, toasted elements. Together they make the flavor more harmonious and complex.
Alcohol
The base of Aperol is a neutral grape spirit. It is distilled to around 95% alcohol before being diluted to Aperol’s final alcohol content of 11%. The high proof spirit allows all the flavorful ingredients to extract and mingle during the infusion process.
Water
Water makes up the remainder of Aperol’s content. Water binds everything together and dilutes the drink to a palatable, drinkable proof. The water also carries the essential flavor compounds that make their way into the finished liqueur.
Flavor Profile
So how do all these ingredients come together on the palate when you sip Aperol? Here are some of the standout flavor notes:
- Bright, tart orange – The dominant citrus flavor
- Prominent bitterness – From herbs like gentian and chamomile
- Underlying earthy qualities – Contributed by roots like rhubarb
- Subtle spicy hints – Cinnamon, saffron and cloves
- Mild sweetness – From sugar and caramel
- Fresh herbal aromas – Basil, mint and sage
- Well balanced with moderate alcohol
- Clean, relatively dry finish
These diverse flavors mingle in Aperol to create a complexity unlike any other liqueur. It has been described as “bitter sunshine in a glass” thanks to its vibrant orange color and quinine bitterness. The result is an appetite-stimulating, lively libation.
Aperol Versus Campari
Since Aperol and Campari are both Italian aperitifs with similar color and packaging, they are often confused for each other. But in terms of flavor profile, they are quite distinct:
Aperol
- 11% alcohol by volume
- Lower bitterness intensity
- Noticeable sweetness
- Bright, pronounced citrus flavor
- Milder herbal notes
Campari
- 20.5%–28.5% alcohol by volume
- Higher bitterness and herbal intensity
- Minimal sweetness
- More subtle orange flavor
- Stronger herbaceousness
So while they are similar, Campari packs a bigger boozy punch and more potent mix of bitter flavours compared to Aperol’s approachable profile.
Cocktails with Aperol
Aperol is extremely mixable and shines brightly in a range of cocktails. Here are some of the most popular:
Aperol Spritz
- 3 parts prosecco
- 2 parts Aperol
- 1 part soda water
- Orange slice garnish
The classic – light, fizzy and refreshingly bitter
Aperol Americano
- 1 part Aperol
- 1 part Campari
- 1 part sweet vermouth
- Club soda top up
- Orange twist garnish
Bittersweet and complex
Blood Orange Mimosa
- 2 parts blood orange juice
- 1 part Aperol
- 3 parts sparkling wine
- Orange slice garnish
Fruity brunch favorite
Aperol Collins
- 2 parts Aperol
- 1 part lemon juice
- 1 part simple syrup
- 3 parts soda water
- Orange slice and cherry garnish
Tall, fizzy and citrusy
So if you’re looking to make a round of Aperol inspired cocktails, try one of these delicious, easy recipes.
Interesting Facts About Aperol
Aperol has a fascinating background. Here are some intriguing facts about its origins and history:
- Aperol was invented in 1919 in Padua, Italy
- It was created by the Barbieri Brothers, who launched the successful Barbieri liqueur company
- The original recipe remains unchanged for over 100 years
- It was initially called Aperitivo Aperol, later shortened
- Aperol introduced the Spritz cocktail concept in the 1950s at the International Trade Fair in Milan
- The iconic Aperol striped label was inspired by Venetian gondolier shirts
- In 2003, Aperol became part of the Campari Group
- Aperol contains no artificial colors, only natural extracts
- Over 30 million bottles are produced annually
- Aperol celebrated its 100th birthday in 2019
This rich history has ensured that Aperol remains an iconic Italian liqueur today.
Where is Aperol Produced?
Authentic Aperol is produced in northern Italy. Primary production takes place at:
- Barbieri facilities in Padua, near Venice
- Campari facilities in Sesto San Giovanni near Milan
At these locations, the secret recipe is closely followed to extract the botanicals and then blend, sweeten, dilute and bottle the finished liqueur.
Should Aperol be Refrigerated?
Unlike dry vermouth, Aperol does not require refrigeration after opening. The higher alcohol content and sugar content act as preservatives.
However, chilling Aperol is recommended to maximize enjoyment. Aperol can be stored in the freezer to serve ice cold or simply chilled in the refrigerator.
Benefits of chilled Aperol:
- Enhances the aroma
- Creates a cool, refreshing flavor
- Prevents excessive dilution when served over ice
- Generates an inviting orange glow
Storing Aperol at room temperature is acceptable but not ideal. Over time, condensation may form under the bottle cap. For best quality, store opened bottles refrigerated.
Does Aperol Go Bad?
With proper storage, Aperol has a very long shelf life and does not really go bad. Its relatively high ABV (alcohol by volume) acts as a natural preservative. An unopened bottle stored at room temperature can keep for several years.
However, aged Aperol can see changes over time:
- Slow loss of bright, vibrant orange color
- Subtle fading of the aromas
- Possible oxidation, causing slight off-flavors
- Eventual precipitation of sugars and citrus oils
For best quality, aim to finish bottles within:
- 2 – 3 years if stored at room temperature
- 3 – 5 years if stored refrigerated
If properly sealed and stored, Aperol has a nearly indefinite shelf life. But for peak flavor and color, consume opened bottles quickly.
Tips for Serving Aperol
Here are some recommendations for serving Aperol:
- Serve chilled from the refrigerator
- For ice cold Aperol, store bottle in the freezer before serving
- Use a julep strainer when pouring to catch citrus pulp
- Serve in a short rocks glass over ice
- Garnish with orange slice or peel
- Add a splash of soda or Prosecco for a Spritz
- Pair with light appetizers or cheeses
- Avoid heavily chilling drinks with Aperol to retain aroma
With its beautiful color and aroma, Aperol deserves to be served properly chilled and garnished. Follow these tips for an eye-catching, flavorful Aperol experience.
Aperol Cost & Availability
As an imported specialty liqueur, Aperol runs $20-$30 per 750mL bottle. It may cost more in some markets. Due to popularity and limited production, it can occasionally be tricky to find. Here are some tips for locating bottles:
- Check local specialty liquor stores, especially Italian markets
- Monitor inventory at major retailers like TotalWine and BevMo
- Search online sites for current availability information
- Consider ordering directly from online liquor stores for delivery
- Be flexible on bottle size – 1 liter bottles may be easier to find
- Call ahead to stores get updates on incoming shipments
With its growing popularity, production is increasing to keep up with demand. But patience and diligence help when trying to score those beautiful orange Aperol bottles.
Is Aperol Considered Vegan/Gluten-Free?
Aperol contains no animal-derived ingredients, so is considered vegan friendly. It’s also free of gluten containing grains:
- No dairy products used such as milk or egg
- No animal products like honey or gelatin
- Does not contain wheat, rye or barley
However, Aperol is produced in facilities that handle milk and gluten products. Sensitive individuals should exercise caution. Those with celiac disease or serious allergies should contact the company to confirm gluten-free status.
But for most, Aperol can be enjoyed as part of a vegan or gluten-free diet. Its all-natural color and flavor come strictly from plant ingredients.
Nutrition Facts for Aperol
As a liqueur, Aperol is not a significant source of nutrients. Its nutritional values per 1.5 fluid ounce (45ml) serving are:
- Calories: 96
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 0g
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 2mg
The carbohydrate content comes from added sugar. Aperol also contains no fat, fiber, vitamins or minerals.
Consumed in moderation, Aperol can fit into a balanced diet. But the calories, carbs and sugars should be accounted for. Those monitoring intake may want to limit servings or dilute with soda water.
Potential Health Benefits of Aperol
Research on Aperol specifically is limited. But studies on its key ingredients suggest some potential benefits:
- Bitter orange – May aid digestion and metabolism
- Gentian root – Possible anti-inflammatory effects
- Chamomile – Associated with reduced anxiety and improved sleep
- Antioxidants from botanicals – May help counter oxidative stress
Additionally, moderate alcohol intake is linked with lower risk of heart disease.
However, alcohol also carries risks like addiction, intoxication and overconsumption. Moderation is key. Those with medical conditions or on medication should consult their doctor before consuming alcohol.
Overall the unique botanical blend makes Aperol more intriguing than many mixers. But claims of health benefits require much more scientific evidence.
Conclusion
Aperol stands out for its alluring orange color and complex bitter-sweet taste. Its recipe skillfully balances flavors of bitter orange, gentian, rhubarb and herbs to stimulate the appetite. Aperol is relatively low in alcohol, making it more mixable than potent alternatives like Campari.
The result is a versatile Italian aperitif that can be effortlessly enjoyed before meals or crafting elegant cocktails. Aperol spritzes have become ubiquitous patio drinks worldwide. Thanks to growing popularity and smart marketing, this century old amaro is here to stay.
Next time you see that orangey-amber liquid in a coupe, you’ll know the key ingredients behind its color and taste. The exact recipe remains protected, but botanicals like bitter orange, rhubarb, gentian and chamomile define this unique libation. Though less bitter than Campari, Aperol still packs herbs, citrus and roots into its bright flavors. Now you can better appreciate how science and skill come together in each sip of Aperol. Salute!
