In recent years, there’s been a shift in the drinking scene: more people are reaching for low-ABV (alcohol by volume) cocktails that deliver full flavor without the full buzz. Whether you’re pacing yourself, avoiding hangovers, or just enjoying the nuances of a well-balanced drink, low-ABV cocktails are a sophisticated choice that blend craft and moderation.

These drinks spotlight fortified wines, bitters, aperitifs, and herbal liqueurs—perfect for slow sipping and subtle complexity. Here are some of the most popular low-proof cocktails, plus tips on where to enjoy them and how to craft your own at home.

What Makes a Cocktail Low-ABV?
Low-ABV cocktails generally fall under 15% alcohol by volume, often relying on ingredients like:

• Vermouth

• Amaro

• Aperol or Campari

• Sherry

• Lillet

• Sparkling wine or soda water

These ingredients are mixed in ways that offer a layered flavor profile without overwhelming strength.

Tried-and-True Low-ABV Cocktails to Try

1. Aperol Spritz

• 3 oz Prosecco

• 2 oz Aperol

• 1 oz soda water

Light, refreshing, and citrusy with a slightly bitter edge, this classic Italian aperitivo is an icon in the low-ABV category.

2. Bamboo Cocktail

• 1.5 oz dry sherry

• 1.5 oz dry vermouth

• Dash of orange bitters

This stirred drink is perfect for fans of martinis but with half the punch.

3. Americano

• 1 oz Campari

• 1 oz sweet vermouth

• Soda water to top

First served in the 1860s, this bitter-forward cocktail is refreshing and highly customizable.

4. Tinto de Verano

• Equal parts red wine and lemon soda

A Spanish summer favorite, this chilled drink is vibrant, simple, and ideal for casual sipping.

5. Sherry Cobbler

• 3 oz amontillado or fino sherry

• Orange slice

• Simple syrup

• Crushed ice

This 19th-century drink is a bartender favorite and a great way to highlight sherry’s complexity without spirits.

Where to Enjoy Low-ABV Cocktails in the U.S.

Bar Pisellino – New York, NY
An aperitivo-style café and bar in the West Village offering vermouths, amari, and Italian cocktails all day long.o

Vesper Bar – Las Vegas, NV
Located inside The Cosmopolitan, this sleek lounge offers modern takes on classics, including several spritzes and wine-based drinks.

Lo-Fi Aperitifs – Retail & Bar Partners Nationwide
A company producing wine-based aperitifs like gentian amaro and dry vermouth with botanicals, Lo-Fi products are found on cocktail menus across the country.
Lo-Fi Aperitifs

How to Craft Low-ABV Cocktails at Home

• Keep a collection of fortified wines and aperitifs on hand

• Use fresh herbs, bitters, and citrus to build complexity

• Invest in soda siphons or flavored sparkling water for texture

• Serve over large ice cubes or in chilled coupes for added elegance

Pair with Light Bites
Low-ABV cocktails pair wonderfully with salty snacks, charcuterie, and fresh produce:

• Aperol spritz + prosciutto and melon

• Sherry cobbler + marcona almonds

• Americano + crostini with olive tapenade

Stack Your Savings with Gift Card Rewards

Heading to a dine-in theater with cocktails on the menu? Save money at Regal by purchasing your gift card through Fluz and enjoy a low-key night with low-proof options.

Low-ABV cocktails are more than a trend—they’re a thoughtful, flavorful way to enjoy the art of drinking without going overboard. Whether you’re mixing at home or sipping out on the town, platforms like Fluz can help you raise your glass while lowering your bill.