The Campari Spritz: A Sharper Take on the Italian Spritz

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The Campari Spritz takes the broad popularity of the modern spritz and shifts it toward bitterness. Where softer aperitif versions lean orange-sweet and highly approachable, this one is firmer, drier, and more obviously aperitivo in intent.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces campari
• 3 ounces dry prosecco
• 1 ounce soda water
• Garnish with an orange slice

Directions

• Fill a wine glass with ice and add the Campari and dry prosecco.
• Top with soda water.
• Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.

A Natural Variation Rather Than a Singular Origin Story

Unlike some classics tied to a single bartender or venue, the Campari Spritz is best understood as a natural variation within the larger spritz tradition. Once bitter aperitifs, sparkling wine, and soda were already part of the same drinking culture, combining Campari with the spritz format was almost inevitable.

That means its history is more diffuse than the history of a named modern classic. It belongs to a living category rather than a single invention event.

Why It Feels Different from Softer Spritzes

Campari gives the drink a more assertive bitter core than many popular spritz builds. Dry prosecco contributes lift and acidity, while soda water stretches the drink and keeps it from reading too dense. Orange garnish helps connect the aroma to Campari's familiar bitter-citrus profile.

The overall effect is still social and refreshing, but it is less forgiving and more adult in tone.

A Drink for Aperitivo Logic

The Campari Spritz works because it behaves like an aperitif should. It is sparkling, appetite-opening, and not especially heavy. It can sit in the hand for a while, and it still feels appropriate before food.

That function is the reason it deserves a place next to more famous spritzes. It offers the same occasion with a sharper point of view.

Best late afternoon or before dinner, especially when you want a spritz with more bitterness and less softness.