I love trying out classic Italian cocktails, and honestly, the Bicicletta is one of my go-tos for its light, bittersweet taste. The Bicicletta cocktail is easy to make and only needs a few simple ingredients: white wine, Campari, and soda water.
It’s refreshing—perfect for a warm afternoon or just hanging out with friends. When I serve the Bicicletta, people are often curious about its story and how to mix it just right.
With the right steps and a couple of tips, anyone can make this drink at home and get a little taste of Italy.
Bicicletta Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Jigger: Makes measuring the ingredients a lot easier.
- Bar spoon: Good for blending the cocktail and layering the soda water.
- Ice cubes: Regular cubes do the job and chill the drink nicely.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Campari
- 3 oz dry white wine Pinot Grigio, Trebbiano, or Sauvignon Blanc work well
- 2 oz club soda or sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- 1 orange slice or twist for garnish
Instructions
- Fill your glass with ice cubes, almost to the top.
- Pour in 2 oz Campari using the jigger.
- Add 3 oz dry white wine.
- Top with 2 oz club soda or sparkling water.
- Stir gently with a bar spoon.
- Garnish with an orange slice or a twist of peel.
Notes
Tasting Notes
First sip of a Bicicletta? I get a gentle bitterness from the Campari, but it’s not overwhelming. That bitterness gets balanced by the dry, soft notes from the wine.
The drink feels light and crisp. The little fizz from the soda water makes it so refreshing and honestly, pretty easy to drink.
Here are a few flavors I notice:
- Bitter Orange: Campari brings out a clear orange taste with a bit of herbal kick.
- Mild Sweetness: There’s a hint of sweetness, but it’s definitely not a sugary drink.
- Citrus Twist: If I add an orange garnish, I get a fresh aroma and some light citrus notes.
Texture:
- The Bicicletta has a smooth body.
- The bubbles keep it lively on the tongue.
Aroma:
- I smell both the wine and Campari right away.
- The orange peel adds a bright, zesty scent on top.
This cocktail is for people who like bittersweet flavors and a simple, clean finish. If that’s you, you’ll probably love it.

