If you’re looking for a drink that’s refreshing, vibrant, and just the right mix of bitter and sweet, the Campari Spritz is a must-try. It’s one of my favorite cocktails to make when I want something that feels fancy but is super easy to whip up. With its bright red hue, bubbly fizz, and citrusy garnish, this Italian classic is like a little celebration in a glass.
Campari Spritz
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make one perfect Campari Spritz:
- 1.5 oz (45 ml) Campari
- 3 oz (90 ml) Prosecco
- A splash of soda water
- Plenty of ice cubes
- 1 orange slice for garnish
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Makes: 1 cocktail
Method
- Grab a large wine glass (or a highball glass if you prefer) and fill it to the brim with ice cubes. The more ice, the better—it keeps everything cold and crisp.
- Pour in 1.5 oz (45 ml) of Campari. It’s the star of the show, giving the drink its signature bold, bittersweet flavor.
- Add 3 oz (90 ml) of Prosecco for that bubbly, slightly sweet touch.
- Top it off with a splash of soda water for extra fizz.
- Gently stir everything together—don’t overdo it! You want to keep those bubbles intact.
- Finish with a slice of fresh orange for garnish. It adds a pop of color and a hint of citrus aroma with every sip.
And that’s it! You’ve got a perfectly balanced Campari Spritz ready to enjoy.
Tips for the Best Campari Spritz
- Stick to the ratios: The classic proportions (3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Campari, 1 part soda) are what make this cocktail so balanced. Play around if you like, but this is the sweet spot.
- Use fresh ice: Old ice can pick up freezer flavors, so grab a fresh batch for the best taste.
- Chill your Prosecco: It’s best served ice cold, so pop it in the fridge ahead of time.
Make-Ahead Notes
If you’re hosting, you can pre-measure the Campari and Prosecco into a pitcher. When it’s time to serve, just pour over ice, top with soda water, and garnish. This keeps the fizz fresh and the prep easy.
Substitutions
- Prosecco: Swap it for any sparkling wine like Cava or Champagne. A dry sparkling Rosé also works beautifully.
- Campari: Not a fan of strong bitterness? Try Aperol instead. It’s slightly sweeter and more approachable.
- Soda water: Don’t have soda water? Sparkling mineral water works just as well.
Serving Suggestions
The Campari Spritz pairs wonderfully with light, flavorful snacks. Here are a few ideas:
- Seafood: Oysters, shrimp cocktail, or smoked salmon are fantastic with the drink’s crisp bitterness.
- Charcuterie: Think salty prosciutto, nutty cheeses, and olives. The Campari cuts through the richness perfectly.
- Citrus Salad: A bright, zesty salad with oranges or grapefruit complements the drink’s citrusy notes.
Whenever I serve this cocktail at gatherings, I always set out a little platter of salty snacks like nuts, crackers, and cheese. It’s a simple but crowd-pleasing combo.
Variations to Try
Want to mix things up? Here are a few fun twists on the classic Campari Spritz:
Rosé Campari Spritz
- Swap the Prosecco for a dry Rosé.
- Add a dash of lavender syrup for a floral touch.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of dried lavender.
Campari Soda Spritz
- Skip the Prosecco and use only Campari and soda water.
- This version is lighter and less boozy—perfect for a hot afternoon.
Spicy Campari Spritz
- Add a slice of jalapeño for a little heat.
- Muddle the jalapeño in the glass before adding the other ingredients to infuse the spice.
Non-Alcoholic Version
- Mix soda water with a splash of non-alcoholic bitter and garnish with an orange slice.
- It’s just as refreshing but completely booze-free.
Common Questions
Can I make a big batch in advance?
Yes! Mix the Campari and orange slices in a pitcher ahead of time, but wait to add the Prosecco and soda water until just before serving to keep it bubbly.
What if I want it less bitter?
Add a little more Prosecco and soda water to mellow out the bitterness.
Can I use a different garnish?
Absolutely. Grapefruit or lemon slices work well if you’re out of oranges, or try a sprig of fresh rosemary for a fragrant twist.
Is it a summer-only drink?
Not at all! While it’s perfect for warm-weather sipping, the Campari Spritz works year-round—especially for festive occasions when you want something light yet celebratory.
Final Notes
The Campari Spritz is one of those drinks that feels effortlessly chic but takes almost no time to make. Whether you’re enjoying it solo on a sunny patio or serving it up to friends at a dinner party, it’s bound to bring a little Italian flair to your day. And once you’ve mastered the classic, don’t be afraid to experiment with the variations. Cheers!
