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Campari

Milano Spritzer: A Bright and Bitter Italian Classic

by Ginny Day November 15, 2024

When it comes to refreshing cocktails that capture the essence of Italian aperitivo culture, the Milano Spritzer is a true gem. This vibrant cocktail combines the bitterness of Italian aperitifs with the crispness of sparkling wine, creating a perfectly balanced drink that’s light, refreshing, and utterly sophisticated. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day, enjoying a leisurely brunch, or simply looking to transport yourself to a sunny piazza in Milan, the Milano Spritzer is your perfect companion.

What Is a Milano Spritzer?

The Milano Spritzer is a delightful twist on the classic Aperol Spritz that you may already know and love. It’s named after Milan, the bustling city that serves as Italy’s fashion and design capital, and it embodies the chic, relaxed atmosphere of Milanese aperitivo culture.

Unlike the more widely known Aperol Spritz, which uses the sweet and slightly bitter Aperol, the Milano Spritzer traditionally uses Campari—a classic, deeply red Italian aperitif with a more pronounced bitterness. This gives the cocktail a bolder, more complex flavor profile while still retaining the refreshing, effervescent qualities of a spritz. The result is a cocktail that’s slightly bitter, subtly sweet, and wonderfully refreshing.

The Classic Milano Spritzer Recipe

The Milano Spritzer is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients to create a cocktail that’s bursting with flavor. Here’s how to make the classic version:

Ingredients:

2 oz (6 cl) Campari
3 oz (9 cl) Prosecco
1 oz (3 cl) sparkling water or club soda
Orange slice or twist, for garnish
Ice cubes

Instructions:

Fill a large wine glass with ice cubes.
Add the Campari, followed by the Prosecco.
Top off with sparkling water or club soda to give it a light, bubbly finish.
Gently stir to combine the ingredients.
Garnish with a slice of orange or an orange twist for a burst of citrus aroma.

Tips for the Perfect Milano Spritzer

The beauty of the Milano Spritzer lies in its simplicity, but there are a few tricks to make it even more delicious:

Use High-Quality Prosecco: The bubbles are a key part of this drink, so choose a dry Prosecco that’s crisp and refreshing.
Serve It Well-Chilled: This cocktail is best enjoyed ice-cold, so make sure all your ingredients are thoroughly chilled before mixing.
Don’t Skip the Garnish: A fresh slice of orange or an orange twist not only looks beautiful but also adds a burst of citrus aroma that complements the bitterness of the Campari.
Adjust the Ratios to Taste: If you prefer a less bitter cocktail, reduce the amount of Campari slightly or add a touch more sparkling water for a milder flavor.

Why the Milano Spritzer Is Perfect for Aperitivo Hour

The Milano Spritzer is the quintessential aperitivo—a pre-dinner drink enjoyed in Italy to stimulate the appetite. It’s light, bubbly, and not too sweet, making it perfect for sipping alongside small plates of olives, nuts, cheeses, and charcuterie. Its slightly bitter edge also makes it a great palate cleanser, preparing you for a delicious meal ahead.

One of the best things about the Milano Spritzer is its versatility. It’s a cocktail that can be enjoyed year-round. In the summer, it’s a refreshing, cool drink to enjoy on a sunny patio, while in the colder months, its vibrant red color and bold flavors make it a festive choice for holiday gatherings.

Fun Variations on the Classic Milano Spritzer

While the classic Milano Spritzer is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Here are a few creative variations to try:

Milano Rosato Spritzer: Replace Campari with Aperol or Select Aperitivo for a lighter, slightly sweeter version. This is perfect if you’re looking for something a bit less bitter but still full of flavor.

Spicy Milano Spritzer: Add a dash of spicy bitters or a slice of jalapeño to your spritzer for a hint of heat. This pairs beautifully with the bitter, herbal notes of Campari.

Berry Milano Spritzer: Muddle a handful of fresh strawberries or raspberries at the bottom of the glass before adding the other ingredients. This adds a fruity twist that’s perfect for summer.

Milano Citrus Spritzer: Add a splash of fresh grapefruit juice along with the Campari and Prosecco. This extra citrus kick enhances the cocktail’s zesty profile.

Herbal Milano Spritzer: Garnish your spritzer with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme. The herbal aroma pairs beautifully with the bitter-sweetness of Campari, adding depth to the cocktail.

When to Serve a Milano Spritzer

The Milano Spritzer is incredibly versatile and perfect for a wide range of occasions:

Aperitivo Hour: Serve it before dinner with a selection of light bites to whet the appetite.
Brunch Gatherings: It’s an excellent alternative to Mimosas or Bellinis, bringing a touch of Italian flair to your brunch.
Outdoor Picnics: Its refreshing, bubbly nature makes it ideal for warm-weather gatherings.
Holiday Parties: The vibrant red hue of the Milano Spritzer makes it a festive choice for Christmas or New Year’s celebrations.

Final Tips for Milano Spritzer Perfection

Experiment with Different Aperitifs: Don’t be afraid to try different Italian aperitifs like Aperol, Cynar, or even a splash of vermouth to create your own unique spritzer.
Serve in a Large Wine Glass: Using a large glass allows you to enjoy the aroma of the drink as you sip, enhancing the overall experience.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprig of rosemary or thyme not only looks beautiful but also adds an aromatic touch that complements the cocktail’s bitterness.

The Milano Spritzer—A Refreshing Taste of Italian Aperitivo Culture

The Milano Spritzer is more than just a cocktail; it’s a celebration of Italian life. Its blend of bitter, bubbly, and citrusy flavors makes it the perfect drink for any occasion, from relaxed afternoons to festive celebrations. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with your own variations, the Milano Spritzer is sure to add a touch of Italian sophistication to your gatherings.

Cheers to the Milano Spritzer—a cocktail that proves that sometimes, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication!

Negroni Sbagliato: A Light, Bubbly Twist on Negroni

by Ginny Day November 5, 2024

The Negroni Sbagliato—meaning “mistaken Negroni” in Italian—is a refreshing variation on the classic Negroni, made with sparkling prosecco in place of gin. This delightful twist creates a lighter, slightly effervescent version of the original, perfect for those who want a less spirit-forward cocktail with all the classic Negroni flavors. With its blend of Campari, sweet vermouth, and bubbly prosecco, the Negroni Sbagliato is ideal for aperitivo hour or any occasion that calls for a celebratory drink. Let’s explore the story, unique qualities, and recipe for crafting the perfect Negroni Sbagliato at home.

The Origins of the Negroni Sbagliato

The Negroni Sbagliato was invented in Milan at Bar Basso in the 1970s. Legend has it that a bartender accidentally reached for prosecco instead of gin while making a Negroni, thus creating a “mistaken Negroni”—or Sbagliato. This happy accident led to the creation of a lighter, more refreshing version of the classic cocktail, and it quickly became a staple in Italy’s aperitivo culture.

Today, the Negroni Sbagliato is celebrated for its balance of bittersweet and sparkling flavors. It’s an ideal option for those who enjoy the herbal notes of Campari but prefer a lower-alcohol cocktail. The Sbagliato has become an icon in its own right, and it’s particularly popular for brunch, afternoon gatherings, or any time you’re in the mood for a lighter cocktail with a hint of sophistication.

What Makes the Negroni Sbagliato So Unique

The Negroni Sbagliato stands out for a few reasons:

Effervescent Twist: With prosecco in place of gin, the Sbagliato has a light, bubbly texture that makes it refreshing and less intense than the original Negroni.
Lower Alcohol Content: Since prosecco has a lower ABV than gin, the Negroni Sbagliato is a great choice for those who want a lighter cocktail that’s easy to sip.
Perfect for Aperitivo Hour: Like the original Negroni, the Sbagliato is an ideal aperitivo, stimulating the appetite and providing a flavorful pre-dinner drink.

How to Make the Perfect Negroni Sbagliato

The Negroni Sbagliato is easy to make and requires just a few ingredients. Here’s the classic recipe for this bubbly twist on the Negroni.

Ingredients:

1 oz (3 cl) Campari
1 oz (3 cl) sweet vermouth
1 oz (3 cl) prosecco
Ice
Orange slice or twist for garnish

Instructions:

Combine Campari and Vermouth: In a rocks glass or an Old-Fashioned glass, add the Campari and sweet vermouth.
Add Ice and Top with Prosecco: Fill the glass with ice, then gently pour the prosecco over the top. Give it a light stir to combine.
Garnish: Garnish with an orange slice or twist for added aroma and a pop of color.

Tip: For a smoother, more elegant presentation, consider using a large ice cube to keep the drink cold without diluting it too quickly.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Campari: Campari is essential to the Negroni Sbagliato, providing the signature bitter backbone and bright red color. Its complex herbal notes are balanced by the sweetness of the vermouth and the effervescence of prosecco.
Sweet Vermouth: A good quality sweet vermouth, such as Carpano Antica Formula or Cocchi Vermouth di Torino, enhances the Sbagliato’s depth and complements the bitterness of the Campari with a smooth sweetness.
Prosecco: Choose a dry or brut prosecco for the Negroni Sbagliato. A crisp prosecco balances the cocktail’s flavors and adds a refreshing sparkle without too much additional sweetness.
Garnish: An orange slice or twist is a classic garnish for the Sbagliato, adding a citrusy aroma that complements the Campari’s bittersweet notes.

Tips for Perfecting Your Negroni Sbagliato

Use Fresh Prosecco: To get the best effervescence, open a fresh bottle of prosecco for your Sbagliato. The bubbles create the drink’s signature texture and help to balance its bitterness.
Stir Lightly: When mixing, stir gently to avoid losing the prosecco’s bubbles. A light stir will integrate the flavors without making the drink flat.
Experiment with Ice: Try serving the Sbagliato over one large ice cube to slow the dilution, or use crushed ice for a lighter, more refreshing experience.
Adjust Prosecco to Taste: For a lighter drink, add a bit more prosecco. If you prefer a slightly stronger flavor, stick to equal parts Campari, vermouth, and prosecco.

Negroni Sbagliato Variations to Try

While the classic Negroni Sbagliato is delightful as is, here are a few variations to explore:

Rosé Sbagliato: Substitute the prosecco with sparkling rosé for a hint of berry flavor and a softer pink hue, adding a unique twist to the drink.
Negroni Sbagliato Spritz: Add a splash of soda water along with the prosecco for an extra-refreshing version with even more bubbles.
Grapefruit Sbagliato: Add a dash of fresh grapefruit juice for a citrus-forward version that enhances the Campari’s bittersweet notes.
Herbal Sbagliato: Muddle a few fresh basil or thyme leaves in the glass before adding the Campari and vermouth for a subtle herbal aroma.
Negroni Sbagliato with Spumante: Use an Italian spumante or another sparkling wine instead of prosecco for a slightly different take on the cocktail, adjusting the sweetness level as desired.

When to Serve the Negroni Sbagliato

The Negroni Sbagliato’s light, refreshing profile and Italian roots make it ideal for various occasions:

Aperitivo Hour: Like the original Negroni, the Sbagliato is perfect for aperitivo hour, helping to stimulate the appetite before dinner.
Brunch and Lunch Gatherings: With its lower alcohol content and sparkling finish, the Sbagliato is a great choice for daytime events like brunch or lunch.
Casual Celebrations: The Negroni Sbagliato’s bubbles make it festive, so it’s ideal for celebrations, holidays, or anytime you want a lighter alternative to champagne.
Warm-Weather Occasions: The Sbagliato’s refreshing profile makes it a perfect option for summer gatherings, outdoor parties, or sipping on a sunny patio.

Why You Should Try the Negroni Sbagliato

The Negroni Sbagliato is more than just a cocktail—it’s a vibrant, bubbly twist on a classic Italian drink that brings a touch of elegance and refreshment to any occasion. With its combination of Campari, sweet vermouth, and prosecco, the Negroni Sbagliato offers a perfect balance of bitterness, sweetness, and effervescence. Its light, approachable profile makes it an ideal choice for both Negroni lovers and those new to bitter cocktails.

For fans of classic Italian aperitifs or anyone looking to try a sparkling cocktail with depth and character, the Negroni Sbagliato is a must-try. Its easy preparation, balanced flavors, and festive presentation make it a fantastic addition to any cocktail repertoire.

So next time you’re in the mood for a drink that’s sophisticated yet refreshing, mix up a Negroni Sbagliato, raise your glass, and toast to Italian aperitivo culture with a twist. Salute!

Aperitifs Campari Gin Cocktails Vermouth’

Negroni: A Timeless Classic of Italian Aperitivo Culture

by Ginny Day November 5, 2024

The Negroni is a bold, balanced cocktail that combines gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth for a perfectly bitter and refreshing drink with rich, layered flavors. Created in Florence, Italy, in the early 20th century, the Negroni has become a staple in bars worldwide, beloved by those who appreciate its simplicity and its unique balance of bitterness and sweetness. With its striking red hue and strong, spirit-forward character, the Negroni is perfect for aperitivo hour or anytime you’re in the mood for a sophisticated drink. Let’s explore the history, unique qualities, and recipe for crafting the perfect Negroni at home.

The Origins of the Negroni

The Negroni’s story begins in 1919 at the Caffè Casoni in Florence, Italy, when Count Camillo Negroni asked the bartender, Fosco Scarselli, to strengthen his Americano cocktail by replacing the soda water with gin. Scarselli added an orange garnish in place of the usual lemon twist to signify the change, and thus the Negroni was born.

Since then, the Negroni has become an iconic part of Italian aperitivo culture, gaining fans worldwide and inspiring countless variations. The cocktail’s balance of gin’s botanical notes, Campari’s bittersweet flavors, and vermouth’s smooth sweetness has made it a classic, and it’s as popular today as it was a century ago.

What Makes the Negroni So Unique

The Negroni is distinctive for several reasons:

Perfectly Balanced Bitterness: The combination of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth creates a cocktail that’s both bitter and sweet, with each ingredient balancing the others.
Simplicity and Elegance: With just three ingredients in equal parts, the Negroni is simple to make but offers complex, layered flavors.
A Symbol of Italian Aperitivo: The Negroni embodies the Italian aperitivo tradition, a time to unwind and stimulate the appetite before a meal, making it a favorite in bars and at home.

How to Make the Perfect Negroni

The Negroni is easy to make and requires equal parts of its three ingredients. Here’s the classic recipe for this iconic cocktail.

Ingredients:

1 oz (3 cl) gin
1 oz (3 cl) Campari
1 oz (3 cl) sweet vermouth
Ice
Orange slice or twist for garnish

Instructions:

Combine Ingredients: In a rocks glass, add the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
Add Ice and Stir: Fill the glass with ice and gently stir for about 10–15 seconds to chill and mix the ingredients.
Garnish: Garnish with an orange slice or twist for added aroma and a touch of color.

Tip: Use a large ice cube to keep the drink cold without diluting it too quickly, allowing you to savor the flavors over time.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Gin: A classic London Dry gin works beautifully in the Negroni, offering a clean, juniper-forward base. Tanqueray, Beefeater, or Bombay Sapphire are excellent choices, though you can experiment with other gins if you prefer a slightly different profile.
Campari: Campari is essential to the Negroni, providing the iconic bitter backbone and vibrant red color. Its complex herbal notes add a distinctive character to the drink.
Sweet Vermouth: A quality sweet vermouth adds depth and a subtle sweetness that balances the gin and Campari. Carpano Antica Formula or Cocchi Vermouth di Torino are ideal options, known for their rich, smooth flavors.
Garnish: An orange slice or twist enhances the Negroni’s aroma, adding a hint of citrus that complements the bitterness of Campari and the botanicals in gin.

Tips for Perfecting Your Negroni

Use Equal Parts: The traditional Negroni is made with equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, which creates a balanced, classic flavor. However, you can adjust the proportions to your preference.
Stir, Don’t Shake: The Negroni is a spirit-forward cocktail and should be stirred to maintain its silky texture and clarity.
Serve Over a Large Ice Cube: A large ice cube helps keep the drink cold without watering it down too quickly, allowing you to enjoy it at a leisurely pace.
Experiment with Garnishes: While an orange twist is classic, you can also try a lemon twist or even a grapefruit twist for a different citrus aroma.

Negroni Variations to Try

While the classic Negroni is delicious as is, here are a few variations to explore:

Negroni Sbagliato: Substitute prosecco for gin for a lighter, bubbly version that’s perfect for warm weather or celebrations.
Boulevardier: Swap the gin for bourbon for a richer, warmer version known as the Boulevardier. The bourbon’s caramel notes add depth and a touch of sweetness.
White Negroni: Use a white vermouth and substitute Suze or another gentian-based liqueur for Campari for a lighter, slightly herbal twist on the original.
Mezcal Negroni: Substitute mezcal for gin to add a smoky depth to the drink, making it an ideal choice for mezcal fans.
Coffee Negroni: Add a small amount of cold brew coffee or coffee liqueur for a unique, bittersweet version with subtle coffee notes.

When to Serve the Negroni

The Negroni’s bold, balanced profile and Italian roots make it ideal for various occasions:

Pre-Dinner Aperitivo: With its stimulating bitterness, the Negroni is perfect for aperitivo hour, setting the tone for a meal and stimulating the appetite.
Casual Gatherings: The Negroni’s simplicity and elegance make it a great choice for casual get-togethers or cocktail parties with friends.
Exploring Classic Cocktails: As one of the most iconic cocktails, the Negroni is a must-try for anyone interested in classic mixology.
Warm-Weather Refreshment: Despite its bold flavors, the Negroni is refreshing and pairs well with warm-weather settings, making it perfect for outdoor events and summer gatherings.

Why You Should Try the Negroni

The Negroni is more than just a cocktail—it’s a taste of Italian culture and a symbol of classic sophistication. With its blend of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, the Negroni offers a perfectly balanced drink that’s both bold and refreshing. Its bittersweet flavor and vibrant color make it an ideal aperitivo, as well as a go-to choice for cocktail enthusiasts.

For fans of classic cocktails, bitter flavors, or anyone looking to explore Italian aperitifs, the Negroni is a must-try. Its rich history, easy preparation, and layered flavors make it a fantastic addition to any cocktail repertoire.

So next time you’re in the mood for a drink that’s both stylish and satisfying, mix up a Negroni, raise your glass, and toast to the art of classic cocktails. Salute!