Master the art of illustrating Aperol Spritz with expert tips on colour, transparency, and composition while discovering the perfect Greek getaway to enjoy one.
Aperol Spritz, with its vibrant orange hues and effervescent bubbles, is not just a refreshing drink—it’s an invitation to capture light, reflection, and texture in an illustration. Whether you’re working with watercolours, coloured pencils, or digital tools, illustrating this iconic cocktail can be a fantastic study in colour, transparency, and composition.
How to Draw an Aperol Spritz – Step-by-Step Guide
Glass and Perspective
The classic Aperol Spritz is served in a large wine glass with a stem. To capture its shape correctly:
- Start with light pencil sketches to outline the curves of the bowl and the slender stem.
- Pay attention to perspective; a slightly tilted view can add depth and interest.
- Use soft shading to create the illusion of glass without overpowering the subject.
Colour and Transparency
Aperol Spritz is known for its rich orange hue with hints of red. To replicate this:
- Layer different shades of orange and red to create depth.
- Use white highlights to mimic the light reflections on the liquid’s surface.
- If using digital tools, play with blending modes to create realistic transparency.
The Ice and Bubbles
Ice cubes and carbonation add texture and realism to your drawing.
- Use a mix of soft blues and greys for ice cubes to contrast with the warm drink.
- Add small white highlights or fine dots to represent bubbles rising through the liquid.
- A kneaded eraser can lift highlights in traditional mediums, enhancing the illusion of ice.
The Garnish and Details
An Aperol Spritz isn’t complete without a slice of orange and perhaps a straw.
- Capture the texture of an orange slice with visible segments and light shading.
- Ensure shadows are cast realistically on the liquid surface.
- If including a straw, add subtle distortion where it enters the liquid for realism.
Best Tools and Mediums for Drawing Cocktails
- Watercolours for their ability to blend and create transparency.
- Coloured pencils for detailed texturing and layering.
- Alcohol markers to create smooth gradients and vibrant hues.
- Digital painting using Procreate or Photoshop for refined effects and lighting adjustments.
Where to Enjoy an Aperol Spritz in Greece
One of the most beautiful places to enjoy an Aperol Spritz is a delightful hotel on the eastern side of Crete called Milatos Village Agrotourism Hotel. Nestled in a serene location, this charming retreat offers a truly relaxing atmosphere and a warm welcome to all its guests. The hotel boasts 12 unique rooms, each featuring its own Cretan-inspired decor, blending traditional elements with modern comfort. Just a 40-minute drive from Heraklion Airport, it’s a perfect spot to unwind and take in the beauty of the island.
My favourite apartment has to be the one named after me—Rebecca. With its unique design and stunning ambiance, it holds a special place in my heart as the perfect setting to set down my cases and prepare to soak up the peaceful surroundings.
For more about the hotel’s unique apartments, visit: Milatos Village Agrotourism Hotel Apartments and check out this beautiful photo of the hotel taken from the pool area. Milatos Village Agrotourism Hotel Outdoor Space
Final Thoughts
Next time you’re sipping an Aperol Spritz on a summer afternoon, consider capturing its essence on paper or digitally. With its bright colour, refreshing composition, and striking reflections, it’s the perfect inspiration for an eye-catching artwork. Cheers to creativity!



