Campari Spritz
A quintessential Italian aperitivo that perfectly balances bitterness with effervescence. This sophisticated and refreshing cocktail, with its vibrant ruby-red hue and complex flavor profile, embodies the leisurely elegance of Italian cocktail culture and the aperitivo tradition.
11%
ABV
easy
Difficulty
wine
Glass
Flavor Profile
History & Heritage
“The Campari Spritz is rooted in the 19th-century Austrian occupation of Veneto, Italy, where soldiers would add a 'spritz' (splash) of water to local wines they found too strong. The modern Spritz evolved in the early 20th century with the addition of soda water and Italian bitter liqueurs. While Venice is often credited as the birthplace (with Select Aperitivo), the Campari Spritz has strong ties to Milan, Campari's home. The widespread adoption of Prosecco in the 1970s cemented the recipe we know today. The drink embodies the Italian aperitivo tradition - a pre-dinner ritual of drinks and light snacks designed to stimulate appetite and encourage socializing.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Fill a large wine glass or balloon glass to the top with ice
Pour the Prosecco over the ice
Add the Campari
Top with a splash of soda water
Gently stir the ingredients to combine without dissipating carbonation
Garnish with a fresh orange slice
Glassware
Served over ice in a large wine glass or balloon glass
Garnish
Thick, freshly cut slice
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use dry Prosecco (Brut or Extra Brut) to balance Campari's bitterness
All ingredients should be well-chilled before assembly
The 3-2-1 ratio provides perfect harmony between ingredients
Express orange peel oils over drink before adding slice for extra aroma
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Campari Spritz.
Venetian Style
Garnish with a green olive instead of orange for savory contrast.
Changes
Less Bitter
Reduce Campari proportion or add splash of orange juice for sweetness.
Changes
Select Spritz
Use Select Aperitivo instead of Campari for traditional Venetian version.
Changes
Bicicletta
Use dry white wine instead of Prosecco for still version.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Campari & Soda
Campari and soda water with orange. The simple Italian aperitivo.
Americano
Bittersweet Campari and sweet vermouth lengthened with sparkling soda—Italy’s archetypal low‑ABV aperitivo and the Negroni’s direct parent.
Aperol Spritz
A vibrant Venetian aperitivo marrying bittersweet Aperol, crisp Prosecco, and a splash of soda for sunny, effervescent sipping.