Southside Sips: the Eleganza Spritz from Baker House

There’s a reason the spritz has endured for decades. The format of a bright, bitter amaro, brut-style prosecco and a refreshing glunk of sparkling water just goes down so nicely on warm summer days and nights. And when the sun is sliding into the horizon and the color of your drink matches the color of the sky? Well, that’s just liquid life poetry in action.

They well understand this sentiment over at Baker House 1650 (181 Main St., East Hampton), the transportive spa-like bed and breakfast with the open-to-all aperitivo hour that feels like the best of here with a little splash of Italy. It’s a ritual that you need to make time for if you haven’t already.

“At Baker House, our aperitivo moment is more than just a pre-dinner ritual; it’s a moment of escape, a way to unwind and celebrate life’s simple pleasures. The spritz is rooted in the Italian aperitivo tradition, which emphasizes light, pre-dinner drinks and snacks,” says bar manager Soraya Padrao. “Spritzes are highly adaptable. They can be made with various base spritis, liquors, and garnishes, allowing for creative and seasonal variations that appeal to a wide audience.”

One of our favorites from Padrao: the Eleganza Spritz, a beautiful riff on an Aperol Spritz with a little floral boost from a small addition of Italicus Rosolio liqueur, a bergamot and rose-and-lavender scented Italian addition well worth having on your home bar (grab a bottle at Wainscott Main Wines & Spirits at 354 Montauk Highway, 631-537-2800).

“This vibrant concoction captures the essence of summer with its refreshing blend of prosecco, Aperol, bergamot and a hint of rosemary,” says Padrao. “It’s a drink that embodies the spirit of relaxation and celebration.”

And on this first weekend of August, who couldn’t use a little of that? If you can’t make it to Baker House, mix one up at home thanks to Padrao.