Aperol is one of Italy's most iconic aperitifs, first created in 1919 by the Barbieri brothers in Padua. Instantly recognizable for its bright orange hue, Aperol is crafted from a carefully balanced infusion of bitter and sweet oranges, rhubarb, and a closely guarded blend of herbs and roots. Bottled at a gentle 11% ABV in most markets, it offers a lighter, more approachable bitterness than many traditional Italian aperitivi. Its global popularity surged with the rise of the Aperol Spritz, cementing its place at the heart of modern aperitivo culture.
Designed to stimulate the appetite without overwhelming the palate, Aperol delivers a harmonious interplay of citrus sweetness and refined herbal bitterness. Its vibrant colour, refreshing profile, and versatility have made it a staple for warm-weather drinking, terrace culture, and contemporary cocktail menus worldwide.
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Brilliant luminous orange with crystal clarity and a light-bodied consistency.
Aroma
Fresh sweet orange leads, layered with bitter orange peel, light herbal notes, hints of rhubarb, and subtle floral undertones.
Palate
Bright and gently bittersweet. Juicy orange and mandarin open the palate, followed by soft herbal complexity, rhubarb tartness, and a delicate quinine-like bitterness that adds structure. The sweetness is balanced and never cloying, keeping the profile crisp and refreshing.
Finish
Clean and lightly bitter, with lingering orange zest and a soft herbal fade that refreshes the palate and invites another sip.
