So... it's been a minute.
I'd like to have a great reason for leaving this blog in limbo for the last year, but the truth is, it was more of a "life got in the way," kind of thing.
The past year has been crazy — I moved jobs, moved apartments, traveled a little, wrote a lot, and hit a big birthday milestone (it's totally okay, 30 is like... the new 20, right??). The one thing I never really seemed to do was update this blog. However, there's something about summer that makes me want to write (and drink wine).
So here we are.
Aw yeah bubbles!
It's another Nashville summer, meaning that every time I leave my house I have one thought, which is "how can I not melt today." Luckily, I have discovered the magic secret to surviving the heat, which is called going to the pool and then drinking on the patio.
Like I mentioned, recently moved apartments, which has the benefit of A. being closer to work and B. having things like a pool and a balcony and shelves that I can actually put things on without the fear of them collapsing (it's the little things).
Another great thing about this apartment is that it's a literal five minute walk to my sister's house. We've been celebrating summer by drinking a classic cocktail: the Aperol spritz.
Got the gang all here.
The reason I'm obsessed with these this summer (and have basically loved them forever) is because of how easy it is to make at home. If you're not familiar with Aperol, it's an Italian aperitif made with things like gentian, rhubarb, and chinchona (okay, sure). Aperitifs are named because they are typically consumed before a meal, like an appetizer only it's an alcoholic beverage. Aperol is similar to Campari, but slightly less bitter. If you want an excellent, deep dive into the history of the Aperol spritz, I read this.
Ready for some spritzin' — start with the Aperol!
To make an Aperol spritz, you need exactly 3 things: prosecco (or champagne if you're less concerned with making it authentically Italian), Aperol, and soda water.
How to Make an Aperol Spritz
You'll need:
- prosecco
- Aperol
- soda water
- lemons for garnishing
To make, just add 3 parts prosecco to 2 parts Aperol and add a splash of soda water. Add ice, and if you're feeling fancy, you can add a decorative lemon slice/twist/garnish. Voila (or Ecco! in Italian).
Add the bubbles!
For this version, I used a bottle of champagne that had been left at my house after a party (so I have no idea what brand it is...). Although some purists may advocate using a premium brand for these, I think a cheap sparkling wine works just as well (since you're mixing it). Prosecco is ideal, since it's slightly sweeter, and balances the bitterness of the Aperol well.
That is one sexy beverage.
Overall review: A classic, warm weather beverage that has the ability to make you feel like you're living in the Italian countryside, wearing a linen dress and eating a fruit plate.
I'd drink this:
- At the pool, while wearing a huge, floppy sun hat and trying to avoid getting weird tan lines.
- While wearing the aforementioned linen dress and eating a fruit plate
- At a housewarming party, while hanging out on the balcony and listening to music that the host describes as "vibey."
- While having a sibling bonding afternoon.
YEET.