20 Perfect Spritz and Shandy Recipes to Try This Summer 2026

Spritz and shandy recipes are the perfect way to quench your thirst this summer, and with the right formula, you can craft bar-quality drinks at home. The spritz craze shows no sign of slowing down, with UK searches for Hugo spritz overtaking Aperol spritz for the first time. Meanwhile, shandy is making a comeback, with Ocado sales up 40% year on year.

The Spritz Craze: Why It's Here to Stay

Pub chains are taking liberties, calling anything fizzy and served over ice a spritz, but the traditional Italian cocktail is a simple blend of prosecco, a bitter aperitif, and soda water. The classic 3-2-1 formula—three parts prosecco, two parts liqueur, one part soda—ensures a balanced, refreshing drink. Whether you prefer the bitter notes of Campari or the herbal complexity of Select, there's a spritz for every palate.

The Classic 3-2-1 Spritz Formula

To make a perfect spritz at home, use 75ml prosecco, 50ml liqueur, and 25ml soda water. Adjust the ratios to make it stronger or weaker. For a smaller drink, use 60ml/40ml/20ml; for a larger one, 90ml/60ml/30ml. The key is to pour over ice and stir briefly before garnishing.

Five Bittersweet Spritzes to Try

From the article, we highlight two classics: the Select spritz, created in Venice in 1920, and the Campari spritz, a personal favorite. Select contains 30 herbs and botanicals, while Campari offers a bold bitterness. Both are perfect for summer sipping. For a fruity twist, try a kumquat spritz, which adds a citrusy brightness to the traditional formula.

Shandy: The Refreshing Comeback

Shandy, a mix of beer and soft drink, is experiencing a resurgence. Craft brands like Shandy Shack are now stocked in M&S, and sales are climbing. It's an easy, low-alcohol option that's perfect for hot days. The classic portergaff—a mix of beer and ginger ale—is a timeless choice, while modern variations use lemonade or fruit sodas.

Spritz vs Shandy: A Quick Comparison

Key Takeaways

• Use the 3-2-1 ratio for a perfect spritz.
• Experiment with different aperitifs like Select or Campari.
• Shandy is a low-alcohol, refreshing alternative.
• Adjust ratios to suit your taste.
• Garnish with olives, citrus, or herbs for extra flavor.

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