Campari Spritz

By Steve Kilcullen Jump to Recipe

A bitter yet sweet, delicious and refreshing summertime tipple, the Campari Spritz is the bubbly poolside companion you’ve been searching for.

I found myself on a beach. How I arrived there was unknown to me. This place wasn’t familiar, and as hard as I tried, I simply had no memory of traveling to or arriving at this endless stretch of sand, sea and salt. Behind me were miles of cliffs stretching in both directions. In front, the waves rolled and crashed into the beach with a strange and almost unrealistic speed… they moved too slowly, almost backwards, it appeared. No sun or cloud was visible, but the day was bright and I had to squint my eyes against it.

Oddly, everything was in black and white. It looked as though I had somehow ended up in a Fellini film. What was the meaning of all this?

The towering, pale figure was standing before me, staring. Where did this person come from? Were they always there? And how long were they looking me up and down? “Uh… hi there,” I managed to croak out. I hadn’t realized until I spoke that my throat was unbelievably dry. A thirst was upon me, raging like nothing I had ever experienced before.

“What do you require?” The figure’s voice seemed to boom and echo through the endless sky, shaking my very bones. I had no fear, however. This entity didn’t carry any malice, only mystery. I cleared my raspy throat and answered, “A drink would be nice.”

The ghost-like face before me crinkled its brow as its owner scratched a very long chin. Would I get water, or nothing at all? I didn’t think this was a tall order, but then again I had no idea if I was even on Planet Earth anymore. The strange figure revealed in his hand a deep red potion. The color of the drink stood out amid the monochrome of its surroundings. From where I stood, I could see and hear bubbles fizzing and popping softly.

What strange and magical concoction could this be? If I drank it, would I grow to be a giant or will this send me traveling through time? I took the tall glass offered to me and gently sipped. My tongue reveled in a familiar, bitter yet sweet flavor that could only be Campari. And was that other bright and bubbly taste prosecco? Delighted but curious, I asked what it was I had been given.

The figure looked at me and barely smirked. “Campari Spritz. Don’t forget to tip your bartender.”

What is the Best Alcohol to Use to Make a Campari Spritz?

To make this cocktail, the Campari is an obvious necessity. This liqueur can be a tad steep sometimes, depending on where you shop. I tend to grab a smaller-sized bottle, as it’s easier on the wallet. And when going for a sparkling wine or prosecco, I found that an extra dry variety works really well as a mixer, helping to elevate and accompany the other ingredients. If you find the Campari to be too bitter or intense, try a sweeter Moscato or Asti Spumante to soften it.

What kind of glass and garnish is used for a Campari Spritz?

A long-stemmed Champagne flute or goblet will carry your Campari Spritz through lands of mystery, or at the very least, the pool in your backyard. Add a juicy lemon wedge for an extra burst of citrus.

Did what you described in the intro really happen?

I’ll never tell.

Similar Cocktails to the Campari Spritz

After a long week, who doesn’t fantasize about their favorite tipples while traveling through Slumberland? If the Campari Spritz is the stuff that your dreams are made of, and you’re searching for more drinks that favor the one we made today, Twist & Toast has some of the most delicious recipes on hand. Try out these ones here, then explore the site for even more ideas.

• Aperol Spritz – If Campari is a little too bitter and robust for your sensitive tongue, take this drink for a spin.
• Americano – Campari and sweet vermouth come together to create a fizzy and refreshing summer treat.
• Negroni Sbagliato – Prosecco replaces the gin in this bubbly take on the classic cocktail.
• Prosecco Sorbet – Dessert and adult beverages combine to create a truly decadent experience.