Sitting in the office, scrolling social media, and seeing friends live their best lives on an Italian vacation is not a fun way to spend your summer.
Thankfully, there is a remedy. Today (Saturday, August 1) just so happens to be National Spritz Day.
Sipping on a spritz can help dull the FOMO. Here are some fun facts about the refreshing cocktail, as well as some fun places around the country to get a good deal on one.
What is a basic spritz recipe?
At its core, a spritz is made of three ingredients: prosecco, a bitter Italian aperitif, and soda water.
Remembering the portions of each ingredient is as easy as counting down from three. You mix three parts prosecco, two parts aperitif, and one part soda water. Serve over ice.
Who invented the spritz?
The spritz wasn’t really invented per se; it evolved.
In the 1800s, parts of the Veneto region of northern Italy were under the control of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The visiting soldiers thought Italian wines were too strong, so they diluted them with a “spritz” of water.
In 1912, Luigi and Silvio Barbieri took over their father’s liquor company. In 1919, Aperol (which blends bitter and sweet oranges, rhubarb, gentian, and cinchona) was invented. By the 1950s, an official Aperol Spritz recipe was cemented.
How many different kinds of Spritzes are there?
There are too many variations of spritzes to count. The Aperol Spritz has the best public relations. The Hugo Spritz utilizes St-Germain liqueur or elderflower syrup. There are also popular versions using Campari and limoncello.
National Spritz Day deals
There is no need for an Italian vacation, as National Spritz Day deals beckon across the country. Let’s travel around and explore some.
West
In Tucson, Arizona, Bacio, a modern Italian restaurant, is offering an $8 Personal Spritz or a $15 Super Spritz with the purchase of food.
What happens in Vegas probably ends up on your Instagram feed. Flight Club, a venue that features a twist on the classic bar game of darts, is located at the Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian Resort. There you can play and get a $12 Amici Spritz.
South
Deep in the heart of Texas, more specifically at the Stargazer Bar in Austin, things are getting rosy. You can order a more traditional Aperol Spritz for $7 or, for just a dollar more, try out the Rose Spritz. This is an Aperol Spritz with a special rose tincture.
Midwest
The Everly in Madison, Wisconsin, loves spritzes so much that it’s celebrating all week long. From July 25 to August 2, you can enjoy a $6 spritz. There are five different flavors to choose from, including a zero-proof option.
East
There are even more games afoot in New York City. If you love shuffleboard, head over to the Electric Shuffle. There you will find $5 Aperol Spritzes, frozen or on the rocks.
Also in the Big Apple at the Time Out Market in Brooklyn is a spritz celebration of sorts. From 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., guests can enjoy great views alongside food and drink specials available for purchase.
However you choose to celebrate, make sure to document it on social media so your friends in Italy can be jealous of you this time around.