So, you’ve decided to mix Aperol with vodka—bold choice, I’ll give you that. But, are you ready to face the consequences? Let’s just say this cocktail could go one of two ways. You either create a refreshing masterpiece or make a drink so confusing that even the most seasoned bartender might turn their head in judgment. Aperol has that sweet, bitter, citrus flavor that demands attention, while vodka, well, it does what it does best—goes unnoticed until it kicks in. Combine them together, and you’re balancing a strange cocktail of flavors that might just make you feel like you’re sipping something from the future.
Vodka: The Silent Yet Deadly Player
Vodka is the unsung hero of this combination. It brings the alcohol punch without stealing the show. Its neutral taste allows other ingredients to shine. But let’s not kid ourselves. Vodka can be dangerous when it’s mixed with something as potent as Aperol. Sure, it doesn’t scream “I’m the star of the show,” but after a few too many sips, it might remind you of its power. Vodka brings cleanliness and a smooth finish. You won’t taste it much at first, but it’s there, lurking. That is, until it leaves you questioning your life choices.
Aperol: The Colorful Drama Queen
Aperol, with its vibrant orange hue, instantly demands attention. Its bittersweet, citrusy flavor gets under your skin. It’s loud, bold, and insists that you remember it. The addition of Aperol to any drink automatically signals that you’re a person who values taste and isn’t afraid to try new things. When you mix Aperol with vodka, you’re creating a cocktail that’s like a high school clique: one is the quiet achiever, the other the loud one. Together, they somehow make it work—kind of.
Is It A Classic? Probably Not. But Who Cares?
Let’s get one thing straight: this isn’t a classic cocktail by any means. You won’t see it on a menu at the world’s best cocktail bars (unless you’re at some overly pretentious place, of course). Aperol and vodka don’t exactly scream “traditional” like a gin and tonic does. But who needs tradition when you’ve got a drink that’s willing to push boundaries? Mixing Aperol with vodka is for those of us who enjoy the unexpected. Do you want a fizzy, crisp drink with a tangy finish? This is your answer. It’s experimental, it’s a little wild, and frankly, it’s fun.
Cocktail With Aperol and Vodka
Equipment
- 1 cocktail shaker
- 1 Jigger for measuring
- 1 strainer (optional)
- 1 rocks glass or cocktail glass
- 1 Ice cubes
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz Aperol
- 1 oz Vodka
- 1 oz fresh orange juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup optional, for sweetness
- Ice cubes for shaking and serving
- Orange slice for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass:
- Fill a rocks or cocktail glass with ice cubes.
- Add Ingredients to Shaker:
- Pour 1 1/2 oz Aperol, 1 oz vodka, and 1 oz fresh orange juice into the cocktail shaker.
- Shake the Cocktail:
- Add ice to the shaker, close it, and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
- Strain the Drink:
- Using a strainer, pour the mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with an orange slice on the rim of the glass and serve immediately.
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Vitamins and Minerals (Per Serving)
- Vitamin C: 10%
- Iron: 2%
- Calcium: 1%
- Vitamin A: 1%
- Magnesium: 2%
The Good, the Bad, and the Bitter
When it comes to a cocktail with Aperol and vodka, you’ve got to love the balance of flavors—or prepare for disappointment. Aperol’s bitterness and vodka’s neutrality have to work in harmony. Too much of either, and the cocktail could turn from enjoyable to “why did I make this?” The key is balance. That sweet spot where the vodka doesn’t overpower, and the Aperol doesn’t leave you wondering if you’ve just eaten an orange peel.
How to Actually Enjoy This Cocktail
First of all, don’t overthink it. You’re mixing two ingredients, but it doesn’t have to feel like a chemistry experiment. Pour the Aperol, add the vodka, and if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with something to show the world you know your way around a cocktail shaker. Don’t stress about the perfect proportions; let the drink find its own identity. But if you do overdo it, you’ll end up with a concoction that even your most daring friends will sip and quietly judge.
Can You Make It Better? Doubtful, But Try Anyway
Let’s be real here—vodka and Aperol aren’t exactly a match made in cocktail heaven. However, by some strange cocktail alchemy, it actually works. If you’re hoping to make a perfectly balanced drink, keep your ingredients simple. The less you mess with it, the better it gets. So, while you can experiment with extra garnishes or alternative flavors, let’s be honest: the simplicity of the combination is what gives it charm.
Final Thoughts: Just Drink It, Don’t Overthink It
At the end of the day, the cocktail with Aperol and vodka isn’t about finding the next big thing in mixology. It’s about getting out of your comfort zone and trying something new. Don’t worry about creating a drink that will win any awards. It’s a little unpredictable, but that’s part of the fun. If you’re looking for a cocktail that’s easy to make, refreshing, and bold, this one’s for you. Just don’t take yourself too seriously, and most importantly, don’t drink too much too quickly—because, believe me, that vodka can sneak up on you.
