Have you ever stumbled upon a cocktail that instantly becomes your new obsession? That’s exactly what happened to me with this Aperol Gin Martini. It’s not just a drink; it’s a vibrant experience that captures the essence of summer in a glass.
Why This Cocktail is Your New Favorite
This martini is light, crisp, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make. With a delightful combination of Aperol, gin, and a splash of orange juice, it’s a delicious twist on the classic martini. Perfect for lazy summer evenings, sunset gatherings, or when you simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary.
Tasting Notes
Aroma: Zesty orange with complex herbal scents, harmonized with a delicate touch of vanilla.
First Sip: An intense orange top note with herbal and woody undertones that beautifully balance into a pleasantly bittersweet experience.
Texture: Velvety and rounded, with lingering orange and woody notes that dance across your palate.
Finish: A mild bitterness with a hint of sweetness and an intriguing herbal aftertaste that lingers deliciously.
Ingredients
Gin
Aperol
Lemon juice
Orange juice
Orange bitters
Orange peel for garnish
Step-by-Step Preparation
Start by adding all your ingredients to a cocktail shaker. Then fill it with ice and shake vigorously until the mixture is beautifully chilled.
Pro tip: Serve in a chilled cocktail glass and let your guests have fun garnishing with orange peels or slices!
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Add gin, Aperol, lemon juice, orange juice, and orange bitters to the shaker.
Shake well for 15 seconds until well chilled.
Strain into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish with a twist of orange peel.
Tips & Tricks
Flavor Enhancing Secrets:
Use freshly squeezed citrus juices for maximum flavor.
Experiment with different gin brands for added complexity.
Adjust bitters to taste—some like it more citrus-forward, others enjoy a stronger bitter note.
Consider a light orange zest twist for extra aromatics.
Variations to Explore
Aperol Gin Fizz – Add a splash of club soda for a bubbly variation.
Herbal Aperol Martini – Muddle fresh basil or rosemary before shaking.
Coconut Aperol Martini – Swap the gin for coconut rum for a tropical touch.
Spicy Aperol Martini – Muddle a thin slice of jalapeño for a spicy kick.
Your Burning Questions Answered
Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely! You can mix the cocktail and store it in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator for up to one day before serving.
What if I want to keep it cold for a party?
Avoid adding ice directly to the pitcher—instead, shake and strain each serving individually to maintain the best flavor.
Does this work with vodka instead of gin?
Yes! You can swap gin for vodka if you prefer a smoother, less botanical martini.
This cocktail pairs beautifully with a cheese board, citrusy desserts, or even a light seafood dish. The crisp citrus and bittersweet Aperol make it a versatile cocktail for any occasion!
Aperol Gin Martini: The Perfect Summer Cocktail
Description
The Aperol Gin Martini is a refreshing twist on a classic, featuring botanical gin, bittersweet Aperol, fresh citrus juices, and a touch of orange bitters. It’s light, smooth, and full of bright flavors, making it the perfect cocktail for warm evenings and elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
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Add gin, Aperol, lemon juice, orange juice, and bitters.
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Shake for 15 seconds until chilled.
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Strain into a chilled martini glass.
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Garnish with an orange peel.
Nutrition Facts
Calories:180kcal
Note
- For a slightly sweeter drink, add ½ oz simple syrup.
- For a stronger bitter note, add extra dashes of orange bitters.
- Swap gin for vodka for a smoother martini variation.
