An aperitivo without the alcohol should still feel like an occasion. The Italia Spritz is our bittersweet, bubbly zero-proof answer — a craft mocktail that gives you the full ritual of a spritz with none of the proof. It is a cornerstone of the growing sober-curious scene in Apex, North Carolina.
The spritz, reimagined alcohol-free
We start with a de-alcoholized sparkling wine for genuine bubbles and vinous character, then layer in an Italian-style non-alcoholic aperitivo for that signature bittersweet, orange-and-herb backbone. A splash of soda water lengthens it into a bright, effervescent refresher served over ice.
The flavor is faithful to the original: bitter, citrusy and dry, with a clean finish that resets the palate. It looks the part, too — that unmistakable sunset-orange glow makes it just as social-media ready as any cocktail on our list.
Luxury without compromise
The Italia Spritz is for designated drivers, expecting parents, the sober-curious, and anyone simply taking a night off — all of whom deserve more than a soda. It is also a lovely, low-key aperitif before dinner in the Triangle.
Pair it with our Hummus Dip or Charcuterie Board for a relaxed, Mediterranean-style start to the evening.
Why the ritual matters
A big part of any spritz is the ceremony — the glass, the ice, the color, the first bittersweet sip on a warm evening. Stripping out the alcohol should never mean stripping out that ritual, which is exactly why we build the Italia Spritz with real de-alcoholized sparkling wine and a proper aperitivo rather than a shortcut.
That respect for the experience is the heart of our zero-proof program at Apex Aqua Vitae. Whether you are the designated driver or simply taking the night off, you deserve a drink that feels like an occasion. Pair it with a small plate and settle in — in Apex, an alcohol-free evening can be every bit as luxurious.
Good to know
- Bar: Apex Aqua Vitae — Liquid Luxury & Bar
- Category: Mocktails
- Where: Apex, North Carolina, in the heart of the Raleigh–Durham–Cary Triangle
- Easy to reach from: Cary, Raleigh, Morrisville and Holly Springs
- Explore or reserve: lightpink-chamois-855074.hostingersite.com/ or call 919-267-4246
- Follow along: Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for new pours and events
Frequently asked questions
Is the Italia Spritz completely alcohol-free?
Yes. It is built with de-alcoholized sparkling wine and a non-alcoholic aperitivo, making it a true zero-proof mocktail.
Does it taste like a real spritz?
Very much so — bittersweet, citrusy and bubbly, with the same aperitivo character, minus the alcohol.
Where can I find zero-proof drinks in Apex, NC?
At Apex Aqua Vitae, which offers a dedicated craft mocktail menu alongside non-alcoholic wine and beer.
Visit Apex Aqua Vitae — Liquid Luxury & Bar in Apex, North Carolina. Explore the full menu at lightpink-chamois-855074.hostingersite.com/ or call 919-267-4246. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
See the full Mocktails and non-alcoholic selections on our menu.