Bicicletta Cocktail Recipe
The Bicicletta is an Italian aperitif that brings together bitter and sparkling flavors for a crisp, refreshing drink. I find this cocktail super easy to make with basic bar tools and ingredients you can find almost anywhere.
Equipment
- Wine glass or tumbler: I usually go for a stemmed wine glass, but a rocks glass totally works.
- 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.
- Citrus peeler or knife: For a fresh orange slice or twist on top.
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
I always stick with dry white wine for this recipe; sweet wines just take over and ruin the balance. If I’m in the mood for a stronger drink, I cut back a little on the soda water.
Sometimes, for a festive twist, I swap in prosecco instead of club soda—those extra bubbles are fun. If oranges are in season, I’ll use a juicy slice instead of a twist, which adds a nice aroma as you sip.
I always serve the Bicicletta cold and drink it soon after mixing so the ice doesn’t water it down too much. When I have friends over, I set out extra orange slices for garnish—people seem to love that.