Due Campari Cocktail: A Spritz of Italian Sunshine

My first encounter with a Campari spritz wasn’t in a sun-drenched Italian piazza, as one might imagine. It was a rainy afternoon in London, at a tiny bar tucked away in Soho. Seeking an escape from the dreary weather, I stumbled in and, on a whim, ordered a cocktail with that vibrant, almost aggressively orange hue. One sip, and I was transported. The bittersweetness, the bubbles, the citrusy aroma – it was liquid sunshine, bottled rebellion against the grey sky. Now, the Due Campari, is its own special variation of a Campari based cocktail.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 2 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 minutes
• Servings: 1
• Yield: 1 cocktail
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 3⁄4 ounce Campari
• 3⁄4 ounce fresh lemon juice
• 4 ounces Prosecco sparkling wine

Equipment Needed

• Cocktail shaker
• Ice
• Champagne flute
• Jigger or measuring spoons
• Strainer

Instructions

1. Begin by filling your cocktail shaker with ice. This will ensure the Campari and lemon juice are properly chilled.
2. Measure out 3/4 ounce of Campari and pour it into the shaker.
3. Next, measure 3/4 ounce of fresh lemon juice and add it to the shaker. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key for a bright, vibrant flavor. Bottled juice simply won’t deliver the same results.
4. Secure the lid of the cocktail shaker tightly and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This will thoroughly combine the Campari and lemon juice, chilling them to perfection.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled champagne flute. Using a chilled glass will help keep the cocktail colder for longer.
6. Top off the flute with 4 ounces of Prosecco sparkling wine. Pour slowly to prevent excessive fizzing.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Chill everything: For the best-tasting cocktail, chill your champagne flute and ensure your Prosecco is well-refrigerated before mixing. Colder ingredients result in a more refreshing drink.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a slightly sweeter cocktail, consider adding a dash of simple syrup or a splash of club soda to balance the bitterness of the Campari.
• Fresh is best: Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for optimal flavor. Bottled lemon juice often contains preservatives that can alter the taste of the cocktail.
• Garnish intelligently: A simple lemon twist or orange slice adds visual appeal and enhances the citrusy aroma of the cocktail. Experiment with different garnishes to find your favorite combination.
• Shake it properly: When shaking the Campari and lemon juice, make sure you’re shaking hard enough to chill the mixture thoroughly. You should feel the shaker getting very cold in your hands.
• Prosecco substitute: In a pinch, any dry sparkling wine can be used, but the particular character of Prosecco is what makes this cocktail distinct.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

The Due Campari cocktail is best served immediately after preparation to maintain its fizz and optimal flavor. It is not suitable for long-term storage.

• Serving: Serve in a chilled champagne flute. Consider adding a lemon twist or orange slice as a garnish. This cocktail is perfect as an aperitivo before a meal or as a refreshing drink on a warm day.
• Storage: Due to the carbonation from the Prosecco, this cocktail should not be stored. The bubbles will dissipate, and the flavor will degrade over time. It is best enjoyed fresh.
• Make ahead (partial): You can pre-mix the Campari and lemon juice ahead of time. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, shake well over ice and top with fresh Prosecco.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	~150 kcal	~7%
Total Fat	0g	0%
Saturated Fat	0g	0%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	~5mg	~0.2%
Total Carbohydrate	~12g	~4%
Dietary Fiber	0g	0%
Sugars	~10g	N/A
Protein	0g	0%

• Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Estimated values. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

• Sparkling Wine Alternatives: While Prosecco is the classic choice, you can experiment with other dry sparkling wines like Cava or even a dry rosé sparkling wine. Each will impart a slightly different flavor profile to the cocktail.
• Citrus Variations: Instead of lemon juice, try using grapefruit juice or blood orange juice for a different citrus twist. Adjust the amount to taste, as some citrus fruits are more tart than others.
• Bitters Boost: For an even more complex flavor, add a dash of orange bitters or Angostura bitters to the shaker along with the Campari and lemon juice.
• Herbal Infusion: Muddle a few fresh mint leaves or basil leaves in the shaker before adding the Campari and lemon juice for a refreshing herbal note.
• Non-Alcoholic Version: Substitute the Prosecco with sparkling water or club soda for a lighter, non-alcoholic option. Consider adding a splash of non-alcoholic Aperol for a similar bittersweet flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-made sour mix instead of fresh lemon juice?
A: While you could, I highly recommend using fresh lemon juice. The flavor is far superior, and the cocktail will taste much brighter and more refreshing. Pre-made sour mixes often contain artificial ingredients and excessive sugar.

Q: The cocktail is too bitter for my taste. What can I do?
A: Add a splash of simple syrup or a dash of agave nectar to sweeten it. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of soda water or club soda to dilute the bitterness.

Q: Can I make a large batch of this cocktail ahead of time for a party?
A: It’s best to mix the Campari and lemon juice in advance, but don’t add the Prosecco until just before serving to maintain the fizz.

Q: What kind of glass should I use if I don’t have a champagne flute?
A: A wine glass or a highball glass will work just fine. The shape of the glass doesn’t significantly impact the flavor, but a taller glass helps showcase the bubbles.

Q: Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?
A: While lemon is traditional, lime juice will also create a refreshing cocktail. The flavor profile will be slightly different, leaning more towards a tart, tropical note.

Final Thoughts

The Due Campari is more than just a cocktail; it’s a moment of pure Italian bliss, a vibrant escape in a glass. Whether you’re seeking a sophisticated aperitivo or a refreshing drink to brighten your day, this simple yet elegant recipe is sure to delight. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the bittersweet symphony of flavors, and let the sunshine in. I encourage you to experiment with the suggested variations and share your creations with friends and family. Cheers to good drinks and even better company!