Non-Alcoholic Spritz

Ingredient Spotlight

Non-alcoholic aperitif (bitter orange or similar)

A non-alcoholic aperitif is a bottled, ready-to-drink bitter-sweet beverage designed to mimic classic European aperitifs (think Aperol or Campari from Italy) without the alcohol. It typically smells citrusy and herbal with pronounced bitter-orange, gentian or botanical notes and is used to add a bright, slightly bitter backbone to cocktails. You can find commercial versions (e.g., Crodino, Lyre’s apéritif blends, or various bitter syrups) in well-stocked liquor stores, specialty grocers, or online. If you can’t find one, substitute with a small amount of Aperol/Campari if alcohol is acceptable, or mix fresh orange juice with tonic or sparkling water plus a few drops of non‑alcoholic bitter syrup or aromatic bitters to approximate the bitter-citrus profile.

Ingredient Spotlight

Non-alcoholic sparkling wine or sparkling grape beverage

This is a carbonated, alcohol-free alternative to Champagne or Prosecco—often a dealcoholized sparkling wine or sparkling grape juice—used for celebratory or cocktail applications. It tastes fizzy and grape- or wine-like, ranging from sweet to semi-dry, and offers bubbles and body similar to sparkling wine. Look for it in supermarket non‑alcoholic aisles, specialty beverage shops, or online (brands vary regionally); dealcoholized sparkling wines are usually in the wine section. A practical substitute is chilled sparkling water or soda water with a splash of white grape or apple juice (or sparkling cider) to add sweetness and flavor while keeping the fizz.