With summer at our doorstep, we often find ourselves exploring all kinds of twists on Spritz recipes, using a variety of aperitifs and liqueurs to enjoy.
As a cocktail enthusiast, few moments are as exciting as finally getting your hands on a product that feels both timeless and innovative. Cappelletti Bitter is exactly that. If this brand hasn’t yet made it into your repertoire, allow me the pleasure of introducing it to you 🤌🏼.
About the Brand
Cappelletti Bitter is a wine-based aperitif crafted with Alpine herbs, offering a bold and unique flavour profile. The striking red appearance delivers an intense aroma of orange and herbs, balanced by a beautifully dry finish.
The original secret formula, dating back over a century 🤯, has been preserved by Antica Erboristeria Cappelletti, which has been blending tradition and quality since 1906.
At 17% ABV, Cappelletti sits comfortably between some well-known bitter aperitifs:
- Campari at 25% ABV (ABV – Australia);
- Select Aperitivo at 14% ABV;
- Aperol at 11% ABV.
Cappelletti’s Alcohol by Volume (ABV) positions it as a versatile player in the cocktail world, allowing it to shine in various recipes and creative twists. While there are many aperitifs and bitters available, Cappelletti stands out with its lower sweetness, offering an elegant dryness that pairs beautifully with a wide array of ingredients.
The beautiful red colour is all “al natural“!
It gets its vibrant hue from carmine, a traditional colouring agent made from cochineal 🐞, a true old-school ingredient that’s been a staple in classic aperitifs for generations.
While some brands, like Campari (in 2006), slowly moved away from it, Cappelletti has stayed true to its roots, preserving its authentic approach to tradition.
While it’s a nod to their heritage, our vegan friends might have to sit this one out.
The Italian Spritz: A Cocktail of Timeless Elegance
My favourite way to test a new aperitif or bitter is by mixing it in a Spritz.
In my opinion, this is the perfect way to uncover the product’s elegance and aromas and better analyse:
- how it stands out alongside the wine and bubbles;
- how rich it feels,
- and whether its refined bitterness shines through.
To fully appreciate Cappelletti Bitter in a spritz, though, it’s worth diving into the history of the spritz itself, a cocktail that perfectly embodies the essence of aperitivo culture.
Originating in the Veneto region of Italy during the 19th century, the Spritz was born out of Austrian soldiers diluting local wines with soda water to create a lighter, more refreshing drink.
Where I come from, we have a saying: “Se il vino nun lo reggi 🍷, l’uva magnatela a chicchi,🍇” which roughly translates to: “If you can’t handle wine, eat grapes,” a little joke for those who are lighter on their feet.
Of course, the Austrians had a smarter idea by using seltzer to cut it down 🤣.
Over time, this simple concoction evolved with the addition of bitter aperitifs and sparkling wine, creating the vibrant and bubbly Spritz we know today.
In this cocktail, Cappelletti offers a compelling alternative with its drier finish and herbal complexity. It’s the perfect way to elevate a classic cocktail or add your own spin to tradition.
Tasting Notes
Bright ruby red with citrusy and herbaceous notes of gentian, grapefruit and orange. On the palate, it reveals the classic bittersweet character of Italian aperitifs, offering a rich yet refreshing profile with lively acidity. Its medium body is perfectly balanced by a refined dry, herbaceous finish.
Bubbles of Choice in a Spritz
I’m often asked what’s the best sparkling wine for a Spritz. The simple answer? Use whatever makes you (or your Bar Manager 😄) happy!
Prosecco is the classic choice, as its light, crisp character pairs beautifully with the aperitif in the recipe without overshadowing it.
That said, pricier doesn’t always mean better.
A good dry, elegant Prosecco is ideal, as it balances the sweetness from the aperitif without weighing down the drink. If Prosecco isn’t on hand, a Spanish Cava or any dry sparkling wine can create a fantastic Spritz.
And if you’re feeling indulgent at home, you could opt for Champagne. However, I personally find it a bit much. The bold flavours of the Aperitif can easily overpower the delicate notes of the Champagne.
Today, I’m pouring a glass of Family Prosecco from Trentham Estate, a local gem with a backstory as sparkling as the wine itself!
Crafted by the Murphy family, this Prosecco bubbles over with rich traditions and heartfelt family values.
Keep it simple, and let the Spritz shine! 🍾
Embracing Small Players in the Aperitif Market
While mainstream brands have undoubtedly earned their place in our homes and back bars, it’s essential to leave room for the smaller players like Cappelletti. These niche brands bring unique flavours, stories, and craftsmanship to the table, offering opportunities to experience and experiment beyond the familiar.
Exploring lesser-known products not only broadens your palate but also supports the heritage of smaller, family-run producers who pour passion and tradition into every bottle. It reminds us that the cocktail world is vast and diverse, with room for innovation alongside tradition.
So, the next time you’re crafting a spritz or experimenting with a Negroni twist, consider reaching for a bottle of Cappelletti Bitter. Its Alpine herbs, natural colour, and dry finish might just inspire your next great creation.
Now it’s your turn to give this a try!
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Let us know what you’d like to see in the next recipe!
