Aperol Sour is a classic cocktail that has been around for decades. It is a refreshing and citrusy drink that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail is made with Aperol, gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. It is then shaken and served in a chilled glass.
The Aperol Sour has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. It is a low-alcohol cocktail that is perfect for those who want to enjoy a drink without getting too drunk. The Aperol Sour is also a great option for those who are looking for a refreshing drink on a hot summer day. The citrusy and bittersweet flavors are sure to quench your thirst and leave you feeling satisfied. If you’re looking for a new cocktail to try, the Aperol Sour is a great choice.
History of Aperol Sour
Aperol Sour is a popular cocktail that has been around for almost a century. In this section, we will explore the history of this classic drink, including its origin and evolution.
Origin of Aperol
Aperol was first created in 1919 by the Barbieri brothers, Luigi and Silvio, in Padua, Italy. The brothers were looking to create a lighter, fresher alternative to the more robust amaro liqueurs that were popular at the time. They combined sweet oranges, herbs, roots, and spices to create Aperol, which quickly became a favorite among Italians.
The Barbieri brothers’ creation was an instant success, and Aperol quickly became a staple in Italian bars and homes. Its popularity grew throughout the 1920s and 1930s, and it became a symbol of the Italian aperitif culture.
Evolution of the Sour Cocktail
The Sour cocktail is a classic cocktail that has been around for over a century. The original recipe called for a combination of spirit, citrus juice, and sweetener. Over time, bartenders began experimenting with different spirits and sweeteners to create new variations of the Sour.
In the 1950s and 1960s, the Sour cocktail saw a resurgence in popularity. Bartenders began experimenting with new ingredients, including liqueurs, to create new variations of the classic drink. Aperol was one of the liqueurs that was added to the Sour cocktail, and the Aperol Sour was born.
The Aperol Sour quickly became a popular cocktail, and it remains a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts today. Its unique blend of sweet and bitter flavors makes it a refreshing and flavorful drink that is perfect for any occasion.
In conclusion, the Aperol Sour is a classic cocktail with a rich history. Its origin can be traced back to the Barbieri brothers’ creation of Aperol in 1919, and its evolution can be seen in the many variations of the Sour cocktail that have been created over the years. Whether you are a fan of classic cocktails or modern mixology, the Aperol Sour is a drink that is sure to please.
Ingredients and Recipe
Aperol
Aperol is the key ingredient in Aperol Sour. It is an Italian bitter orange aperitif that is made with a blend of herbs and roots. Aperol has a bright orange color and a unique flavor profile that is both bitter and sweet. It is typically used in cocktails to add a bright citrus flavor and a touch of bitterness.
Citrus Components
Citrus components are a key part of the Aperol Sour recipe. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is the most commonly used citrus component, but some recipes also call for lime juice. The citrus juice adds a bright, tangy flavor to the cocktail that balances out the bitterness of the Aperol.
Sweetening Agents
To balance out the bitter and sour flavors in the cocktail, sweetening agents are added. Simple syrup is the most commonly used sweetening agent in Aperol Sour. It is made by dissolving equal parts sugar and water over low heat until the sugar dissolves. Some recipes also call for the addition of egg white or aquafaba, which adds a creamy texture and a foamy top to the cocktail.
Garnishes
Garnishes are an optional but important part of the Aperol Sour recipe. The most common garnish is a dehydrated orange wheel, which adds a pop of color and a citrusy aroma to the cocktail. Some recipes also call for the addition of orange cocktail bitters, which add a complex flavor profile to the cocktail.
To make an Aperol Sour, combine Aperol, gin, citrus juice, simple syrup, and egg white or aquafaba in a cocktail shaker. Shake the mixture until frothy, then add ice to the shaker and shake again until chilled. Strain the cocktail into a glass and garnish with a dehydrated orange wheel and a few drops of orange cocktail bitters, if desired.
Mixing Techniques
Shaking vs. Stirring
When it comes to mixing an Aperol Sour, there are two main techniques: shaking and stirring. Both methods have their own benefits, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Shaking is a more vigorous method that involves adding all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice and shaking until chilled. This method creates a frothy texture and is great for cocktails that contain egg whites, like an Aperol Sour. However, shaking can dilute the drink more than stirring, which can affect the overall flavor.
Stirring, on the other hand, is a gentler method that involves adding all the ingredients to a mixing glass with ice and stirring until chilled. This method is ideal for cocktails that are spirit-forward and don’t require a frothy texture. Stirring also dilutes the drink less than shaking, which can help preserve the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Once you’ve mixed your Aperol Sour, it’s time to serve it up. There are a few different ways to present this cocktail, depending on your preference.
The most common way to serve an Aperol Sour is in a chilled coupe glass. This elegant glassware is perfect for showcasing the cocktail’s beautiful color and frothy texture. You can also garnish the drink with a slice of orange or a sprig of fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary.
If you prefer a more casual presentation, you can also serve an Aperol Sour over ice in a rocks glass. This method is great for outdoor gatherings or when you want a more refreshing drink. Just be sure to double strain the cocktail before serving to remove any small ice chips.
No matter how you choose to mix and serve your Aperol Sour, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.