The Campari Spritz is a classic Italian aperitif that'll transport you straight to the sun-drenched piazzas of Milan. It all starts with Campari, a vibrant red bitter liqueur, which provides the bold, bittersweet backbone. You'll then top it off with crisp prosecco and a splash of fizzy soda water for a refreshing balance. Don't forget the orange slice garnish – it adds a burst of citrus aroma that completes the experience. Whether you're enjoying it before dinner or on a warm summer evening, the Campari Spritz is a sophisticated cocktail that showcases Italy's rich culinary heritage. And there's more to discover about this iconic aperitif…
Key Takeaways
- The Campari Spritz is a classic Italian aperitif that originated in Milan during the early 20th century, featuring the vibrant red bitter liqueur Campari.
- The drink is a balance of bittersweet flavors, with Campari, prosecco, and soda water, often garnished with an orange slice.
- It is a simple yet sophisticated cocktail that showcases the unique flavor profile of Campari and is best enjoyed on warm summer evenings.
- The Campari Spritz remains a fixture in Italian aperitivo culture, symbolizing the country's rich culinary heritage and social gatherings.
- High-quality ingredients, including premium prosecco, are essential to enhance the drink's balance of flavors and create a refreshing and enjoyable cocktail experience.
History
The Campari Spritz has a long and storied history, dating back to the early 20th century. This iconic Italian cocktail originated in the lively city of Milan, where it quickly became a beloved aperitif enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
The key ingredient, Campari, is a vibrant red bitter liqueur with a distinct taste that has captivated taste buds for generations. When mixed with sparkling wine and a splash of soda water, the Campari Spritz is transformed into a refreshing and slightly bittersweet delight.
Over the years, the Campari Spritz has evolved, with variations incorporating different types of sparkling wines and garnishes. However, the core formula remains the same, showcasing the bold and versatile nature of Campari.
Today, this iconic cocktail continues to be a fixture in Italian aperitivo culture, symbolizing the country's rich culinary heritage and the joy of gathering with friends for an evening of relaxation and conversation.
Recipe
The Campari Spritz is a refreshing and iconic Italian aperitif cocktail that has gained a loyal following worldwide. This vibrant and bittersweet drink is the perfect accompaniment to warm summer evenings or as a pre-dinner aperitif.
The Campari Spritz is a simple yet sophisticated cocktail that showcases the unique flavor profile of Campari, a bold and herbal Italian liqueur. The addition of sparkling wine and a splash of soda water creates a beautifully balanced and effervescent drink that's both complex and easy to sip.
Ingredients:
- 2 parts Campari
- 3 parts prosecco or other dry sparkling wine
- 1 part soda water
- Orange slice for garnish
Instructions:
Fill a wine glass or Spritz glass with ice cubes. Pour the Campari over the ice, followed by the prosecco and soda water. Stir gently to combine. Garnish with an orange slice.
When making the Campari Spritz, it's important to use a high-quality Campari and a dry, crisp sparkling wine to achieve the perfect balance of bitterness and acidity.
Additionally, the use of a generous amount of ice is crucial to maintain the cocktail's refreshing and chilled profile.
Cooking Steps
Fill a wine glass with ice, then add a splash of Campari.
Top it off with some bubbly Prosecco and give it a gentle stir with a bar spoon.
Step 1. Fill a Wine Glass With Ice
Next, go ahead and fill your wine glass with plenty of ice. This will help chill the Campari Spritz and keep it refreshing throughout your enjoyment.
Grab some ice cubes from the freezer and carefully drop them into the glass, filling it up about three-quarters of the way. You want enough ice to cool the drink, but not so much that it takes up too much space.
Gently tap the glass on the counter to help the ice settle and create room for the other ingredients. Feel free to add a few more cubes if you want an extra chilly sip.
The ice will melt slowly, maintaining the ideal temperature as you savor your perfectly mixed Campari Spritz. Just be mindful not to overfill the glass, or you may end up with a messy overflow when you add the other components.
Step 2. Add Campari
Add about 1.5 oz of Campari to the ice-filled glass. This vibrant, reddish-orange Italian aperitif will lend a bold, bittersweet flavor to your spritz.
Campari's unique blend of herbs, spices, and citrus creates an instantly recognizable taste. Swirl the Campari gently to incorporate it with the ice, allowing the flavors to mingle.
Next, top off the glass with 3-4 oz of prosecco, a crisp Italian sparkling wine. The effervescence of the prosecco will help balance the intensity of the Campari.
Finish by adding a thin slice of orange as a garnish. The citrus notes will complement the Campari beautifully.
Give the drink a gentle stir with a bar spoon to fully combine the ingredients. The resulting Campari spritz should have a vibrant ruby hue and an enticing aroma.
Sip and enjoy this classic Italian aperitif – the perfect way to start your evening on a refreshing note!
Step 3. Top up With Prosecco
Next, top off the glass with 3-4 oz of prosecco, a crisp Italian sparkling wine. The bubbly prosecco will create a light, refreshing effervescence that completes the Campari Spritz.
Gently pour the prosecco over the back of a spoon to prevent it from splashing. This helps the layers of the drink remain distinct, with the deep red Campari on the bottom and the pale yellow prosecco on top.
The prosecco brings a subtle sweetness that balances the bitter notes of the Campari. Together, they form a harmonious blend of flavors that's perfect for sipping on a warm afternoon.
Be sure to pour the prosecco slowly, allowing it to gracefully top off the glass. Take a moment to admire the vibrant colors and delicate bubbles before taking your first sip of the Campari Spritz.
This iconic Italian aperitif is now ready to enjoy!
Step 4. Stir Gently With Bar Spoon
With the prosecco poured, it's time to give the drink a gentle stir. Grab your trusty bar spoon and slowly rotate it in the glass, combining the layers of Campari and prosecco.
The key is to stir gently, avoiding any aggressive motions that could disturb the beautiful ombré effect you've created. Take your time, allowing the flavors to meld together seamlessly.
As you stir, notice the way the deep red hue of the Campari diffuses into the pale, effervescent prosecco. This gentle stirring technique helps to balance the bitterness of the Campari with the sweetness of the sparkling wine.
When you're satisfied with the integration of the ingredients, it's time to garnish and serve your masterful Campari spritz.
Step 5. Garnish With Orange Slice
To complete your Campari spritz, grab a fresh orange slice.
Carefully place the orange slice on the rim of your glass, gently pressing it down to attach. This bright garnish not only adds a beautiful pop of color but also infuses the cocktail with a subtle citrus aroma.
As you bring the drink to your lips, the orange slice will release its oils, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Feel free to give the slice a gentle squeeze before placing it on the glass, releasing even more of that luscious orange essence.
The vibrant hue and fragrant oils from the fresh fruit complement the bittersweet Campari, creating a visually stunning and aromatic spritz.
This simple yet impactful garnish is the perfect finishing touch, elevating your Campari spritz to new heights of refreshment and sophistication.
Final Thoughts
The Campari Spritz is a delightful and refreshing cocktail that deserves a place in any well-stocked bar or home collection. Its vibrant color and perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and bubbly make it an ideal aperitif or a refreshing sipper on a warm day.
As you sip this cocktail, you'll be transported to the sun-drenched piazzas of Italy, where it's a beloved tradition.
While the Campari Spritz is relatively simple to prepare, its complexity of flavors is what makes it truly special. The bitterness of the Campari is perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the prosecco and the acidity of the soda water.
The garnish of the orange slice not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the citrus notes in the drink. Whether you're enjoying it with friends or sipping it solo, the Campari Spritz is sure to become a new favorite in your cocktail repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difference Between Campari Spritz and Aperol Spritz?
The key difference between a Campari Spritz and an Aperol Spritz is the spirit they're built around. Campari has a more intense, bitter flavor, while Aperol is sweeter and less potent. Both make for refreshing, bubbly cocktails, but the taste profiles can vary significantly.
How to Properly Garnish a Campari Spritz?
To properly garnish a Campari Spritz, you'll want to add a thin slice of orange or lemon peel, which will provide a zesty aroma and enhance the bitterness of the Campari. Finish with a green olive or a cherry for a pop of color.
Can Campari Spritz Be Made With Other Spirits?
Yes, you can make a spritz cocktail with other spirits besides Campari. Try substituting Aperol, Cynar, or even gin for a twist on the classic Campari spritz recipe. Get creative and experiment with different spirit bases.
What Type of Glass Is Best for Serving Campari Spritz?
The best glass for serving a spritz is a wine glass or large wine tumbler. The wide bowl allows the carbonation to release, enhancing the flavors. Choose a glass that showcases the beautiful color of your spritz.
How Long Can a Campari Spritz Be Stored?
A Campari spritz shouldn't be stored for long – it's best enjoyed fresh. The carbonation fades quickly, so you'll want to sip it as soon as it's prepared for the full bubbly effect.
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