Forget the NYT, the Aperol Spritz is delicious

When I traveled to Italy for the first time in 2017, I read as much as humanly possible to figure out where to go, what to eat and what we needed to try when in Rome. So when I read (literally every page of History in High Heel’s recommendations on Florence) that it was a must to try the Aperol Spritz at Le Managere in Florence, I added this to our list of places to check out.

It was a perfect fall day, which made getting a refreshing drink for the patio ideal. We walked into Le Managere, which was only a few blocks from our Airbnb, and instantly knew why this place was recommended. Even if the drinks didn’t match our excitement, the décor and atmosphere was worth the visit.

We worked our way to the bar where I dutifully ordered the spritz and a negroni for my husband. We seated ourselves on the patio and in minutes one of the most beautiful drinks I had ever seen was placed in front of me.

This drink was bold, and bright, and the accoutrements were flowing. Fresh orange slices, crisp cucumbers and grapefruit were stuffed into what was sure to be an amazing drink.

With the first sip, I knew, this was going to be an acquired taste. But rest assured, by the time we had finished our drinks, ready to set out and explore Florence, I knew this was going to be a new go-to drink. It has now become fun to try the different variations on Sprtizes that American mixologists are drumming up – everything from adding vodka or gin, to throwing in a splash of apricot bitters.

So imagine my surprise when I read in the New York Times that the Aperol Spritz is “not a good drink!” Gasp! Avoiding the temptation to cry “fake news!” I maintain that this drink is a refreshing alternative to the standard regular vodka tonic (an old standby favorite) and easy to make at home, making for a great poolside cocktail – especially during Arizona summers.

This is definitely a drink worth measuring out, though. So, grab a decent bottle of Prosecco, pour some Aperol, slice up some fresh oranges for the perfect garnish, sip, and enjoy!