When TJ and I headed out to lunch last Friday at Malibu Farms, we opted to sit at the bar. We always find the bar to be a relaxed setting, and often prefer it to table dining. Anyway, as we were sitting there, the bartender was mixing up what appeared to be a very festive seasonal beverage. What drew my attention was the sparkling wine I saw him adding to the concoction. We asked him what he was making, and he noted it was a spin on the traditional Aperol Spritz, but with a blood orange liqueur. He offered to make us one to try, and while we only had a few sips, it was refreshing and much less bitter than a traditional Aperol Spritz (which we’re no stranger to… they were our go-to when we were in Italy and I shared the easy steps in this post). 

When we left we decided to pick up a bottle of the Blood Orange so we could try and replicate it at home. I’d have to say we were pretty successful. And since it is the holiday season, I wanted to make it a bit more festive with the cranberry ice cubes I’ve seen floating around instagram (I opted for the cute snowflake molds) and then added in some edible glitter to the rim for a little more festivity…. And aside from the small “extra” touches, I’d have to say it’s quite refreshing, and the perfect libation for any gathering you might have this season. 

Including the easy recipe below!

Ice 
4-5oz Prosecco (we love La Marca) 
1.5oz Blood Orange Apéritif
1oz club soda (Fever Tree is our preference)
Fresh orange slices (for garnishing)
Rosemary Sprig (for garnishing)

I lined the wine glass with an orange slice, then dipped it in the edible glitter. Add ice to the glass, then the blood orange apéritif, Prosecco, and top with the club soda.