This is the best cocktail in the whole wide world.

A few years ago, I became introduced to a variety of bitter spirits. At first they were a little hard on the palate, but I kept downing them to look sophisticated (but mainly, to get drunk). Anyway, just like beer, they slowly grew on me. These spirits are called apéritifs, and are generally made with bitter herbs and a small amount of sugar. Their main function is, as their name implies, to stimulate appetite, so they're great for enjoying with friends before a substantial dinner (and they also help pave the way to blissful drunkenness).

Anyway, I used to be especially fond of Cinzano vermouth and Fernet Branca (this last one, actually, a post-meal digestif), but my country's sub-tropical weather was not always such a good match with heavy bitter spirits. That was, until I found out about Aperol, a bright orange, slightly bitter apéritif. It is similar to Campari, but less bitter and with a lower alcohol content. I fell in love! So, without further ado:

Aperol Spritz

Ingredients:

Pour, into a glass with ice, the prosecco wine, Aperol, and soda water. Garnish with two orange slices and mix.

This cocktail is best enjoyed in a tall bubble glass. Over delicious, sunny Sunday brunch. In Italy. /sigh