As the cooler weather rolled in with the new month, so did new cocktails. The tables in the piazze are usually sparkling with the bright orange glasses of Aperol Spritz cocktails as the aperitivo of choice. It’s almost a given that women, and most men, will order an Aperol Spritz in the afternoon. Every bar offers them. But the cold weather has brought about a change here in Padova. The orange drinks are diminishing as a new violet cocktail is gaining popularity.
We’ve seen them offered in several places and by different names. The main ingredients are prosecco and Creme Yvette. I’m not sure why it’s translated as “cream” when the violet liqueur is transparent. It acts to give the prosecco a violet tint. Cinzia made the change from her usual Aperol Spritz last week when she tried a Violet Hugo at the Centro%Centro bar. Their version includes lime, mint, Sambuca, and lots of garnishes with the prosecco and Creme Yvette. During our next aperitivo, she ordered a “Purple Prosecco”, or Violet Spritz”, from another establishment where it was served unadorned. While it may not be as popular as the pervasive Aperol Spritz, it does match her outfit well.