Aperol Spritz Mocktail

This non-alcoholic Aperol spritz mocktail is crisp, lightly bitter, and refreshingly bubbly. It’s made with a bittersweet orange aperitif and alcohol-free sparkling wine for a drink that feels just as elevated as the classic. Perfect for slow afternoons, warm evenings, or anytime you want something special without the alcohol!

A Note From Kristen

I find myself making this mocktail whenever I feel like treating myself to something extra nice. I’ve been on a bit of a mocktail kick lately, and this one quickly became a favorite because it still feels just as delicious and balanced as the real thing. It’s simple to prepare, but the first sip is always crisp, lightly bitter, and refreshing in that classic spritz kind of way. It’s easily one of my favorite ways to brighten up the table. I hope you love it too!

~Kristen

A round glass filled with a pink aperol spritz mocktail, topped with a dried orange slice, sits on a light wooden surface.

Ingredient Notes

Please keep in mind that this is just a quick overview. Visit the full recipe for amounts and instructions!

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Non-Alcoholic Bittersweet Orange Aperitif: Non-alcoholic spirits provide the signature orange color and bittersweet flavor that defines the spritz. I like to use Wilfred’s Bittersweet Non-Alcoholic Aperitif for this recipe.
Other zero proof options in this category, such as Lyre’s Italian Spritz, Ghia, Figlia, Crodino, or Lapo’s Aperitiv, can also work nicely depending on the flavor profile you like best.
Dry Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Wine (Non-alcoholic Prosecco-style preferred): Keeps the mocktail crisp and prevents it from being overly sweet. I like to use Woody’s Mini Sparkling Blanc de Blanc when making this mocktail.
Chilled Soda Water: Lightens and adds refreshing fizz without any additional sweetness. You also simply use plain sparkling water.
Lemon Juice: Contributes acidity to balance the bittersweet aperitif.
Simple Syrup or Maple Syrup: This helps round out the bitterness and acidity of the spritz.
Ice: Chills the drink, keeping it crisp and refreshing, while also diluting the mocktail as it melts.
Dried or Fresh Orange Slices: Optional garnish that adds a fragrant citrus aroma and a pop of color to the Aperol spritz mocktail.

A bottle of Woody’s apple juice, a bottle of Wilfred’s bitter orange & rosemary aperitif—perfect for crafting an aperol spritz mocktail—and a packet of dried orange slices on a light surface. — My favorite ingredients for a simple Aperol-inspired spritz mocktail.

Pairing Ideas

Serve with air fried halloumi slices, a fruit and cheese platter, spicy candied pecans, or chocolate-dipped strawberries.
Pair with tarts or fruit cake.
Serve with various finger sandwiches.
Pair with baked feta, marinated olives, or croissants.

A glass of pink sparkling aperol spritz mocktail with ice cubes and a dried orange slice garnish on a light-colored surface.

My Top Tips for the Best Aperol Spritz Without Alcohol

Use well-chilled ingredients for maximum refreshment and better carbonation retention.
Use large ice cubes so they melt more slowly and keep the drink colder longer.
You can pre-mix the non-alcoholic aperitif, syrup, and lemon juice in a pitcher, then just add the sparkling wine and soda once you’re ready to serve.
Use stemless wine glasses when serving for a stylish presentation.
Variations include:
- Using a garnish of fresh herbs (such as a sprig of rosemary, basil, mint, or thyme).
- Topping with fresh berries or thin lemon slices.
- Adding a splash of orange juice, pineapple juice, or grapefruit juice.
- Swapping the soda water for club soda or tonic water.
- Increasing the amount of soda water for a lighter, bubblier spritz.