If you’ve ever wanted to bring a taste of Italy right to your holiday table, try Campari Spritz. It’s bitter, bubbly, and downright stylish for any easygoing occasion.
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Campari Spritz Recipe
Campari Spritz is a simple, vibrant Italian cocktail. It’s known for its eye-catching ruby hue and an invigorating blend of bitter and sweet flavors. This cocktail is effortless to prepare, yet feels instantly festive.
This drink belongs to the beloved “spritz” family of Italian aperitivi. It stands out for its bold color and assertive, bittersweet character, thanks to Campari, an iconic, herbaceous Italian liqueur. The Campari Spritz drink is a proud staple of Italian café culture.
The drink pairs deliciously with a variety of savory bites, especially those enjoyed during aperitivo hour. Italian snacks such as arancini (fried risotto balls), supplì, and crocchette (potato croquettes) are a classic choice. Olive ascolane (stuffed and fried olives) are another traditional favorite.
This cocktail is also a natural match for focaccia topped with chorizo, slices of cheese, and cured meats. Lighter, briny options like marinated olives or even meat or fish tacos create a playful, contemporary pair.
This spritz fits in at a leisurely brunch, mingling with a spread of beef empanadas with cheese dip and vibrant vegetable platters. For something sweet and simple, try a plate of fresh, citrusy fruits or even a classic Italian crostini. You can enjoy the drink alongside crispy, salty potato chips, artisan breads, or delicate seafood dishes.
Here’s how to make the Campari spritz:
Campari Spritz
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 3 oz Prosecco (chilled)
- 2 oz Campari
- 1 oz soda water (chilled)
- Ice cubes
- Orange slice for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large wine glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the Prosecco, followed by the Campari.
- Top with soda water.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with an orange slice and serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust soda water to your preference for strength and bitterness.
- The Campari Spritz is slightly more bitter and less sweet compared to the Aperol Spritz. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a sharper cocktail.
Variations
If you want to change things up, try these variations of Campari spritz below:
- Campari-Gin Spritz features a splash of botanical gin, a hint of wildflower honey syrup, and soda water for a more spirited, floral version.
- Extra-Bubbly Spritz uses additional prosecco or sparkling wine, enhancing the fizz and making each sip a little more indulgent.
- Citrus Spritz adds fresh grapefruit or lemon juice, highlighting the bright and zesty side of the Campari.
- Low-Alcohol Spritz swaps prosecco for non-alcoholic sparkling wine or soda, keeping the drink festive while dialing back the alcohol.
- Fruit-Infused Spritz muddles in seasonal berries or orange slices before pouring, infusing the drink with layers of fruit flavor.
- Spicy Version includes chili-infused Campari or a dash of chili bitters, for those who enjoy a little heat alongside their bittersweet sip.
- Tonic Spritz replaces soda water with tonic, creating a cocktail with extra quinine bitterness and a complex finish.
- Non-Alcoholic Campari Spritz utilizes alcohol-free red bitters and sparkling water, making it possible for everyone to join the toast.