The Campari Spritz is a refreshing and iconic Italian cocktail that originated in late 19th century Milan. It captures the essence of summer with its harmonious balance of bitter Campari, sweet Prosecco, and effervescent soda water. You'll find the ruby-red hue visually appealing, while the citrusy orange garnish enhances the flavors. It's a straightforward yet sophisticated drink that appeals to various palates, making it a staple in bars and cafes worldwide. If you'd like to learn more about the history and preparation of this classic aperitif, you'll find the details below.
Key Takeaways
- The Campari Spritz is a classic Italian aperitif cocktail that originated in Milan in the late 19th century.
- The drink features a balanced blend of Campari, Prosecco, and soda water, creating a refreshing and effervescent experience.
- Campari's distinctive bitter-sweet flavor and vibrant ruby-red hue have become icons of Italian aperitivo culture.
- The cocktail is typically garnished with a fresh orange slice, which enhances the citrusy notes and visual appeal.
- Campari Spritz is a popular choice for warm weather gatherings, offering a sophisticated and satisfying drinking experience.
History
The Campari Spritz's history traces back to the late 19th century, when the iconic Italian aperitivo brand Campari first gained popularity across Europe.
Originating in Milan, Campari's distinctive bitter-sweet flavor and vibrant red hue quickly became a staple in Italian cocktail culture.
As the years passed, bartenders and drinkers alike began experimenting with Campari, often pairing it with sparkling wine or soda water to create refreshing, effervescent cocktails.
Recipe
A Campari Spritz is a refreshing and bittersweet cocktail that showcases the iconic Italian aperitif, Campari.
This vibrant orange-red beverage is a perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and fizzy, making it an ideal choice for a warm summer day or an elegant aperitif.
The Campari Spritz is a simple yet sophisticated drink that has become a staple in bars and cafes around the world.
Its alluring color and distinctive flavor profile make it a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast.
Ingredients:
- 3 parts Prosecco
- 2 parts Campari
- 1 part soda water
- Orange slice for garnish
Instructions:
Fill a wine glass or tumbler with ice. Add the Campari, then top with Prosecco and a splash of soda water.
Gently stir to combine. Garnish with an orange slice.
Tips:
- For a more intense bitter flavor, increase the Campari proportion.
- Experiment with different types of Prosecco to find your preferred level of sweetness.
- Serve the Campari Spritz chilled and enjoy the vibrant, refreshing experience.
Cooking Steps
Fill a highball glass with ice.
Add Campari and Prosecco.
Stir gently with a bar spoon and garnish with an orange slice.
Step 1. Fill a Highball Glass With Ice
Start by grabbing a sturdy highball glass. Fill it to the brim with ice cubes. You want to create a solid base for the cocktail, so don't be stingy with the ice. The cold temperature will help chill the drink and keep it crisp and refreshing.
Once the glass is packed with ice, give it a gentle shake or stir to ensure the cubes are tightly packed. This will create more surface area for the liquid to interact with, resulting in a quicker and more efficient chilling process.
Be careful not to overfill the glass, as you'll want to leave enough room for the other ingredients.
With the glass prepped and ready, you can now start building your Campari Spritz. The key to a perfect spritz is balancing the bitter, sweet, and effervescent flavors, so pay close attention to the measurements as you add each component.
Step 2. Add Campari
Next, pour 1 1/2 ounces of Campari directly into the ice-filled glass. The deep red, aromatic bitterness of the Campari will immediately infuse the drink, creating a bold and refreshing flavor profile.
Campari's distinctive herbal and citrus notes will complement the effervescence of the sparkling wine, resulting in a harmonious and captivating cocktail. Be sure to pour the Campari slowly, allowing it to gently swirl and blend with the ice. This will help to chill the Campari and integrate its flavors into the drink.
Remember, a Campari Spritz is all about balance, so the amount of Campari you add will have a significant impact on the overall taste. Start with the recommended 1 1/2 ounces and adjust to your personal preference, if desired.
The Campari is the star of the show, so allow its unique character to shine through in this refreshing and sophisticated cocktail.
Step 3. Add Prosecco
With a gentle flourish, top off the Campari-infused glass with 3 to 4 ounces of chilled Prosecco. The effervescent bubbly will balance the bitterness of the Campari, creating a harmonious blend.
Be sure to pour the Prosecco slowly, allowing it to cascade down the side of the glass, forming a beautifully layered drink. Gently stir the mixture to incorporate the Prosecco without losing too much carbonation.
The Prosecco's crisp, dry finish will complement the Campari's vibrant citrus notes, resulting in a refreshing and sophisticated spritz. Garnish with a slice of orange or a green olive to complete the presentation and enhance the drink's visual appeal.
Serve immediately, as the Prosecco's fizz is best experienced fresh. Enjoy the perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and effervescent in this classic Campari Spritz.
Step 4. Add Orange Slice
To complete the Campari Spritz's presentation, garnish the drink with a freshly sliced orange. The vibrant citrus slice not only adds a pop of color to the cocktail, but it also enhances the overall flavor profile.
Gently place the orange slice on the rim of the glass, letting it dangle gracefully over the edge. This simple touch elevates the visual appeal of the Campari Spritz, making it an eye-catching addition to any gathering.
The natural sweetness and acidity of the orange complement the bittersweet notes of the Campari, creating a harmonious balance that tantalizes the taste buds.
As guests sip their Campari Spritz, the orange slice serves as a reminder of the cocktail's refreshing and vibrant nature. This final garnish is the perfect way to complete the presentation of this classic Italian aperitif, ensuring that every sip is an experience to savor.
Step 5. Stir Gently With Bar Spoon
After adding the orange slice, gently stir the Campari Spritz with a bar spoon. This gentle stirring motion helps to blend the flavors and ensure the drink is well-mixed.
Dip the bar spoon into the glass, and make slow, circular motions, being careful not to create too much agitation. The goal is to incorporate the ingredients without diluting the drink. Stir for about 10-15 seconds, or until you can see the ingredients have fully incorporated.
This gentle stirring technique is an important step in creating the perfect Campari Spritz, as it helps to marry the flavors of the Campari, prosecco, and soda water.
Once you've given it a gentle stir, the Campari Spritz is ready to be enjoyed. The subtle motion allows the flavors to shine without overpowering the delicate balance of this refreshing cocktail.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, how does the Campari Spritz measure up as a summer aperitif?
It's a refreshing and vibrant cocktail that captures the essence of the season. The bittersweet notes of Campari, the effervescence of sparkling wine, and the citrusy garnish create a harmonious balance that's both invigorating and easy to sip.
The bright, ruby-red hue is visually appealing, making it a perfect choice for al fresco gatherings. While it may not be as complex as some of the more intricate cocktails, the Campari Spritz delivers a straightforward and satisfying drinking experience.
Its versatility also makes it a crowd-pleaser, catering to a wide range of palates. Whether you're enjoying it as an aperitif before a meal or as a refreshing sipper on a warm summer day, the Campari Spritz is a reliable and enjoyable choice that captures the spirit of the season.
It's a classic summer cocktail that's sure to leave you feeling refreshed and ready to embrace the warmer weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Origin of the Campari Spritz?
The origin of the Campari Spritz can be traced back to Italy, where this refreshing cocktail was first created as a way to enjoy the unique bitterness of Campari. It's a classic Italian aperitif that has since gained global popularity.
How Does the Campari Spritz Differ From Other Spritz Cocktails?
The Campari Spritz differs from other spritz cocktails in its distinct bitter, herbal flavor profile. It's made with Campari, a signature Italian aperitif, which sets it apart from more citrusy or sweet variations of the spritz.
What Are the Best Garnishes for a Campari Spritz?
When garnishing a spritz, you'll want to choose toppings that complement the drink's flavors. Consider using a slice of orange, a green olive, or even a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme to enhance the overall experience.
Can I Make a Campari Spritz Without Alcohol?
You can certainly make a non-alcoholic version of the Campari Spritz. Replace the Campari and sparkling wine with a non-alcoholic aperitif and club soda or tonic water. The result won't be the same, but it can still be a refreshing non-alcoholic cocktail.
How Long Can a Campari Spritz Be Stored?
You can store a Campari Spritz for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Once mixed, the carbonation and flavor will start to fade, so it's best to enjoy it fresh.
