Created by the Barbieri brothers in 1919, Aperol was designed to be a lighter, more approachable alternative to traditional Italian bitters. It debuted at the Padua International Fair and quickly became a staple of Venetian social life.
For decades, the recipe has remained a closely guarded secret. It relies on a unique infusion of selected ingredients, including bitter and sweet oranges, rhubarb, and a variety of herbs and roots.
While it was once a regional secret, the mid-20th century saw its popularity explode across Europe. Today, it stands as a global symbol of relaxation and the art of the slow afternoon.