Bicicletta Cocktail Recipe The Perfect Italian Spritz
The Bicicletta Cocktail is the perfect drink for a relaxing late afternoon! With its simple three-part combo of Campari, dry white wine, and sparkling water, this Italian cocktail is both refreshing and easy to make.
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Bicicletta Cocktail
I’ve been sipping on the easiest afternoon refresher – the Bicicletta Cocktail! This simple three-part cocktail brings together the bitter notes of Campari, the crispness of Pinot Grigio, and the effervescence of sparkling water. Inspired by the classic Aperol Spritz, the Bicicletta Cocktail is the perfect choice for anyone like me who loves Italian cocktails with a bit of a twist. It’s light, zesty, and beautifully garnished with an orange slice and edible flowers. This easy-to-make cocktail will be on your summer rotation for those warm, sunny afternoons when you want something light yet flavorful. Cheers!
Ingredients for the Bicicletta Cocktail
- Campari: This iconic Italian bitter liqueur adds a bold and slightly bitter bite to the cocktail.
- White Wine: I like a dry white Italian wine like Italian Pinot Grigio for a crisp and refreshing base. If you prefer a different dry white wine, like sauvignon blanc, feel free to experiment.
- Sparkling Water or Club Soda: For a delightful fizz, add a splash of club soda. I like Topo Chico for its fine bubbles and clean taste.
- Orange Slice: The classic orange wedge adds a hint of citrus aroma. A lemon twist works here too.
- Edible Flowers: For a pop of color! I used Gourmet Sweet Botanicals.
How to Make the Bicicletta Cocktail
Crafting this Italian cocktail is a breeze! Start by filling a wine glass with ice to keep the drink perfectly chilled. Pour Campari and dry white wine (I recommend Pinot Grigio) into the chilled glass, then top it off with sparkling water or club soda to your taste. Give the mixture a gentle stir to ensure all the ingredients are well combined. For the final touch, garnish the Bicicletta Cocktail with a slice of orange and a few edible flowers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Campari?
Campari is an iconic Italian bitter liqueur known for its bright red color and unique, slightly bitter taste. It is often used in classic cocktails like the Negroni and the Americano, and it adds depth and complexity to the Bicicletta Cocktail.
What type of white wine should I use for the Bicicletta Cocktail?
For the best results, I recommend using a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio. It adds a crisp and refreshing base to the cocktail. However, you can experiment with other dry white wines to find your preferred flavor.
Can I use a different type of sparkling water?
Yes, you can use any sparkling water or club soda you prefer. Topo Chico is a great choice due to its fine bubbles and clean taste, but feel free to use what you have on hand.
What are the origins of the Bicicletta?
Many believe the Bicicletta Cocktail originated in Italy. The name “Bicicletta” (Italian for “bicycle”) supposedly comes from the sight of elderly Italian men riding their bicycles home after spending the afternoon drinking this refreshing cocktail at their local cafes.The drink’s simplicity and balanced flavors have made it a timeless favorite in Italian cocktail culture
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More Refreshing Cocktails to Try
The Bicicletta Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 oz Campari
- 2 oz white wine
- Sparkling water or club soda
- Orange slice, for garnish
- Edible flowers, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a wine glass with ice. Add Campari, white wine and sparkling water and stir to combine.
- If desired, garnish with an orange slice and edible flowers.
