Aperol Sour #2Cocktail recipe
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Aperol Sour #2 sits in the modern “sour” family: a bright, citrus-led cocktail built around a liqueur base rather than a full-strength spirit. While it doesn’t have a widely agreed origin story, it fits neatly into the contemporary trend of reworking the classic sour template with aperitivo-style flavours and a lighter, more sessionable feel. You’ll find it reads as playful and zesty, with a distinctly orange-leaning profile.
On the palate, the orange liqueur brings sweet, candied citrus depth that’s immediately sharpened by lemon juice’s clean acidity. The sugar or simple syrup smooths the edges, rounding the lemon’s bite and helping the orange notes feel fuller rather than thin. A dash of orange bitters tightens everything up, adding a focused, aromatic orange snap that keeps the sweetness in check and leaves a crisp, citrusy finish.
Serve this when you want something refreshing but still flavour-forward—ideal as an early-evening opener or a sunny, anytime sipper. If you like sours that lean more citrus than spirit heat, this is your lane, and it’s especially satisfying for anyone who gravitates toward orange-driven cocktails with a tart backbone.
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Lowball / rocks glass
Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
Orange liqueur leads with sweet orange peel and gentle bitterness, sharpened by lemon juice’s bright tang, while simple syrup rounds the edges and a dash of orange bitters deepens the citrus with a drier, pithy finish. It works because the lemon’s acidity reins in the liqueur’s sweetness and the bitters add structure; ideal for drinkers who like zesty, orange-forward sours without heavy booze.
Method
How to make a Aperol Sour #2
- Orange liqueur 60ml, Lemon juice 30ml, Sugar / simple syrup 15ml, Orange bitters Dash
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- Add the ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice
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- Shake well then strain into a lowball glass
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- Garnish with a cherry and serve
Power tips
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Find out more- Double strain the cocktail through a fine mesh sieve to remove any ice shards, ensuring a smooth and silky texture.
- Add a touch of egg white to the shaker and perform a dry shake (shaking without ice) before adding ice. This will create a frothy top layer that enhances the cocktail's mouthfeel.
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FAQ's
What is the best occasion to enjoy an Aperol Sour #2?
The Aperol Sour #2, with its refreshing and slightly bitter notes, is perfect for summer gatherings, brunches, or as an aperitif before dinner. Its vibrant color and citrusy flavor make it an excellent choice for outdoor celebrations or to enjoy on a sunny afternoon.
Can I substitute any ingredients in the Aperol Sour #2 for a similar flavor profile?
Yes, substitutions can be made while maintaining a similar flavor profile. For instance, if orange liqueur is not available, you might use Cointreau or Triple Sec. Similarly, if you're out of orange bitters, grapefruit bitters could offer a comparable citrusy bitterness, albeit with a slightly different flavor.
What is the best way to serve the Aperol Sour #2 to enhance its flavors?
Serving the Aperol Sour #2 cold is key. Chill the lowball glass in advance, and ensure all ingredients are well shaken with ice before straining into the glass. Garnishing with an orange slice or a twist can also enhance its aromatic profile and visually appeal.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Aperol Sour #2 for those who don’t consume alcohol?
While the Aperol Sour #2 is inherently alcoholic due to its ingredients, a non-alcoholic version could be crafted by substituting Aperol with a non-alcoholic bitter aperitif and replacing the orange liqueur with an orange-flavored syrup or non-alcoholic substitute. Adjust the lemon juice and sugar syrup to taste.
How does the Aperol Sour #2 differ from a traditional Aperol Spritz?
The Aperol Sour #2 differs significantly from an Aperol Spritz in terms of preparation, ingredients, and taste profile. Unlike the spritz, the Aperol Sour #2 does not include prosecco or soda water, resulting in a cocktail that is less fizzy and more focused on the sour and sweet balance of lemon juice and sugar syrup, enhanced with the bitterness of Aperol and orange bitters. It's a more concentrated and flavor-focused drink without the sparkling lightness of a spritz.
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