Step into the vibrant heart of Venice with the iconic Select Spritz, an exquisite aperitivo cocktail that captures the spirit of Italian charm and tradition. Far more than just a drink, it’s a sensory experience – a delightful blend of effervescence, subtle bitterness, and refreshing botanicals. Originating from the picturesque canals and bustling piazzas of Venice, this classic cocktail is remarkably simple to create, requiring just three core ingredients: Select Aperitivo, Prosecco, and a splash of soda water. Each sip offers a delicious medley of refreshing bubbles and a unique, slightly bitter profile that truly awakens the palate. Traditionally served with a vibrant green olive and an array of authentic Italian snacks, the Select Spritz is your perfect companion for any occasion, from a leisurely afternoon to an elegant pre-dinner gathering.
Unveiling the Original Venetian Spritz: The Select Spritz Story
While you’re likely familiar with the ubiquitous Aperol Spritz and the more intense Campari Spritz, allow us to introduce you to the sophisticated elder sibling of the spritz family: the Select Spritz. This isn’t just another aperitivo; it’s the quintessential Venetian Spritz, cherished by locals and connoisseurs alike as the city’s original and authentic version. Its story begins in 1920, when the innovative Pilla brothers launched Select Aperitivo in Venice, crafting a unique bitter specifically designed for the burgeoning aperitivo culture of the era. The Pilla brothers envisioned a drink that would not only refresh but also prepare the palate for the culinary delights ahead, laying the foundation for what would become a global phenomenon.
What Makes Select Aperitivo Unique?
Select Aperitivo is a masterclass in balance and complexity, boasting a secret recipe that includes an impressive blend of 30 different botanicals. Among these carefully selected ingredients are aromatic rhubarb roots, which contribute a distinctive earthy note, and fragrant juniper berries, adding a subtle piney freshness. This intricate combination results in a harmonious flavor profile that is truly unparalleled. Imagine a delightful dance on your tongue: a hint of sweetness, a vibrant burst of citrus, delicate floral undertones, and that signature, gratifying bitterness that defines a true aperitivo. It’s this nuanced bitterness that makes Select Aperitivo the perfect palate cleanser, designed to stimulate your taste buds and ‘open your appetite’ in preparation for the meal to come. Unlike some of its sweeter counterparts, Select offers a deeper, more mature character, making it a sophisticated choice for those who appreciate refined flavors.
Embracing the Aperitivo Culture with Select Spritz
The Select Spritz isn’t merely a drink; it’s an invitation to partake in Italy’s cherished aperitivo culture. This daily ritual, typically enjoyed in the early evening hours before dinner, is a time for slowing down, unwinding, and socializing with friends and family. It’s a moment to transition from the day’s work to an evening of relaxation and good food. The bitter notes of the Select Spritz play a crucial role in this tradition, acting as a digestive stimulant that prepares your stomach for the upcoming meal. Paired with an assortment of light snacks—or “stuzzichini” as they are known in Italy—such as crispy crostini, savory olives, or delicate cheeses, the Select Spritz transforms an ordinary evening into an authentic Italian experience. If a trip to Venice isn’t on your immediate horizon, seeking out a bottle of Select Aperitivo is a worthwhile endeavor. It brings the true taste of Venetian tradition directly to your home, allowing you to recreate this simple yet profoundly satisfying cocktail with ease.
Ready to mix your own authentic Select Spritz? Find the complete recipe below, including detailed notes on ingredients, perfect food pairings, and essential tips for success. For a fully printable recipe, continue scrolling to the bottom of the page.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Select Spritz
Ingredient Notes and Expert Tips for the Best Select Spritz
- Select Aperitivo: The Heart of the Spritz – This is the star of the show and irreplaceable for an authentic Select Spritz. Select has a distinctly different flavor profile compared to Aperol or Campari – it’s less sweet than Aperol, with more pronounced herbal and floral notes, and generally less bitter than Campari. You might need to hunt a little for it; check online retailers, specialized liquor stores, or gourmet Italian food shops. Its unique taste, derived from 30 botanicals, is what gives this spritz its signature Venetian character.
- Prosecco: The Essential Sparkle – For a genuine Italian Spritz, Prosecco is an absolute must. Its light, fruity, and slightly sweet profile perfectly complements the bitterness of Select without overpowering it. Do not substitute with Champagne, Cava, or any other sparkling wine, as their distinct flavors and dryness levels will alter the traditional taste of the Select Spritz. Opt for a dry or extra dry Prosecco for the best balance.
- Soda Water: The Finishing Touch – A splash of soda water adds a light effervescence and helps to lengthen the drink without diluting its flavors. Crucially, use plain sparkling water or club soda that is unsweetened. Avoid tonic water or other flavored sparkling waters, as their added sugars or strong quinine flavors will compete with the delicate balance of the Select Aperitivo. Simple, unflavored soda water is key to maintaining the cocktail’s integrity.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Select Spritz
The Select Spritz is designed to be enjoyed with light, savory bites that enhance its aperitivo qualities. A simple bowl of plump green olives is always a classic choice (why not try our easy 5-minute marinated olives for an elevated touch?). Beyond olives, explore a range of traditional Italian antipasti and small plates that perfectly complement the spritz’s refreshing and bitter notes. The idea is to stimulate the appetite, not fill it before dinner.
- Artichoke Bruschetta (Quick, Easy & Delicious): Earthy artichoke on crispy bread provides a wonderful contrast.
- Gnocco Fritto (Italian Fried Dough): Light, airy fried dough, often served with cured meats, offers a delightful textural contrast.
- Pane, Burro e Alice (Bread, Butter and Anchovy): The saltiness of anchovies perfectly balances the bitterness of the aperitivo.
- Taralli Pugliesi (Italian Snack): Crunchy, savory rings are ideal for casual snacking.
- Smoked Salmon Crostini: The richness of salmon beautifully complements the crispness of the spritz.
- Rosemary Focaccia Bread: Simple, aromatic focaccia is a versatile option for dipping or topping.
- **Assorted Cured Meats and Cheeses:** A platter with Prosciutto, Salame, Parmesan, and Pecorino offers a variety of salty and umami flavors.
- **Marinated Vegetables:** Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant marinated in olive oil and herbs add freshness.
- **Small Arancini or Supplì:** Fried rice balls provide a comforting and satisfying bite.
Expert Tips & Frequently Asked Questions for Your Select Spritz
- Personalize Your Ratios to Taste: The recommended ratios (2 parts Select, 3 parts Prosecco, 1 part soda) provide a classic balance. However, the beauty of a spritz lies in its adaptability. After trying the traditional recipe, feel free to experiment. If you prefer a stronger bitter note, increase the Select Aperitivo. For a lighter, more effervescent drink, add a little more Prosecco or soda water. Adjust until it’s perfectly suited to your palate.
- Abundant Ice is Non-Negotiable: This cocktail relies heavily on being refreshingly cold. Always fill your glass generously with ice. This not only keeps your drink chilled but also slightly dilutes it as the ice slowly melts, softening the bitterness and enhancing the drinkability. Since Select Aperitivo is often stored at room temperature (unlike chilled Prosecco and soda), plenty of ice ensures the entire drink is perfectly cold from the first sip.
- Gentle Stirring for Perfect Blending: After adding all your ingredients to the ice-filled glass, give it a gentle stir. This isn’t about vigorous mixing but about carefully integrating the Select, Prosecco, and soda water. A few swirls with a bar spoon are all you need to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed without losing too much of the precious fizz from the Prosecco.
- Choose the Right Glassware: While any glass will do, a large wine glass or a spritz glass (often stemless) is traditional and ideal. The wide opening allows the aromas to develop, enhancing the drinking experience.
- The Garnish Matters: Don’t skip the green olive! It’s not just for aesthetics; the saltiness of the olive provides a lovely counterpoint to the bittersweet notes of the Select Spritz, making each sip more enjoyable.
While both are iconic Italian aperitivos, the distinction lies primarily in their flavor profiles and historical roots. Aperol is notably sweeter and features a more pronounced citrusy, orangey taste. Its vibrant orange color and approachable sweetness have made it incredibly popular globally. Select Aperitivo, on the other hand, offers a deeper, more complex character. It’s less sweet than Aperol, presenting a unique warmth with distinct herbal, floral, and subtly spicy notes, thanks to its 30 botanicals including rhubarb and juniper. Historically, Select is considered the original Venetian Spritz, predating Aperol by several years and holding a special place in the city’s aperitivo tradition.
No, despite both being Italian bitters with a similar vibrant red hue, their flavors are quite distinct. Campari is renowned for its intense, bold bitterness, often described with notes of grapefruit and cherry, and has a higher alcohol by volume (ABV) at 25%. Select, with an ABV of 17.5%, is considerably less bitter than Campari. It presents a more rounded and mellow bitterness, interwoven with its characteristic sweet, citrus, and floral botanicals. While Campari makes a famously sharp and robust spritz, Select delivers a smoother, more aromatic, and subtly bitter experience that is uniquely Venetian.
Explore More Authentic Italian Cocktails
If the sophisticated flavors of the Select Spritz have tantalized your taste buds, you’ll love delving deeper into the world of Italian mixology. Italy offers a treasure trove of refreshing and iconic cocktails, each with its own unique history and character. Expand your repertoire and bring more of that Italian flair into your home with these delightful recipes:
Drinks
Aperol Spritz Cocktail
Drinks
Giostra d’Alcol (Italian Red Wine Spritz)
Drinks
Classic Campari Cocktail – Spritz
Drinks
Sparkling Limoncello Cocktail
We hope you enjoy crafting and savoring this authentic Select Spritz recipe! If you’ve tried this or any other recipe from our collection, please don’t hesitate to share your experience. Rate the recipe and leave a comment below—we absolutely love hearing from you! You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for daily inspiration. To ensure you never miss out on our latest delicious recipes and culinary adventures, sign up for our Newsletter.
Step By Step Photos Above
Most of our recipes come with step by step photos, helpful tips and tricks to make it perfectly first time and even video!
Select Spritz
★★★★★
By Emily
2 minutes
2 minutes
1
cocktail
Pin Recipe
Print Recipe
Equipment
-
Large wine glass or spritz glass
-
Bar spoon (for stirring)
-
Toothpicks for olive garnish (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 parts Select Aperitivo
- 3 parts Chilled Prosecco
- 1 part Chilled Soda Water (plain sparkling water)
- Plenty of Ice
- Green olive for garnish
Instructions
-
Begin by filling a large wine glass or spritz glass generously with ice to ensure your cocktail stays perfectly chilled.
-
Next, carefully pour in the measured amount of Select Aperitivo, followed by the chilled Prosecco. Maintain the recommended ratio for the authentic Venetian taste.
-
Add a splash of plain soda water to top it off, providing that delightful effervescence. Give the mixture a gentle stir with a bar spoon to combine the ingredients without losing too much fizz.
-
Serve immediately, garnished with a green olive, which adds a crucial salty contrast to the bittersweet drink. Enjoy your authentic Select Spritz!
Notes
- Adjust the ratios to your taste: The beauty of a spritz is its flexibility. After tasting the traditional Select Spritz, feel free to customize the amounts of Select Aperitivo, Prosecco, or soda to match your personal preference for bitterness, sweetness, or effervescence.
- Always use quality ingredients: The simple nature of this cocktail means the quality of each component truly shines. Invest in good Prosecco and ensure your Select Aperitivo is fresh.
- Don’t skimp on ice: As mentioned, generous amounts of ice are crucial for a truly refreshing experience.
Helpful Info for All Recipes
- I always use extra virgin olive oil in all of my recipes unless stated otherwise.
- When I use canned or jarred tomatoes of any kind, I always use Cirio or Mutti brands for the best results and flavor.
- All vegetables are medium sized unless stated otherwise.
- All recipes are tested and developed using a fan (convection) oven.
- Find out more about how nutrition is calculated.
- Check out our must-have Italian Pantry Staples.
- You can also find all our Essential Kitchen Tools for Italian Cooking.
Nutrition (Per Cocktail)
Calories:
145
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
27
g
|
Protein:
0.1
g
|
Sodium:
7
mg
|
Potassium:
75
mg
|
Sugar:
8
g
|
Calcium:
9
mg
|
Iron:
0.3
mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Did you try this recipe?
Leave a comment below!