a document of days

I've always wanted to know how to mix drinks. Until recently, I've not been a prolific drinker of the mixed cocktail, sticking mainly to beer and wine. But for some reason I've always had an interest in mastering the classics, at the very least. Thus, I've been entertaining myself on the weekends by playing mixologist.

As far back as I can remember, my mother has enjoyed Campari. Campari is an Italian aperatif that is a distinctive red color (the liqueur was originally dyed with carmine, made by crushing scaled insects.) The flavor of Campari has been described as spicy and sweet, but most think it bitter and unpalatable (crushed bugs aptly come to mind.) Such was my opinion of the drink until I discovered the Campari Spritz.

During my first trip to Italy, I ordered a Campari Spritz without knowing what to expect. Since then, I have been a huge fan. The spritz contains a shot of Campari, a crisp white wine or prosecco, a splash of soda water, and is often served with ice. The drink can be garnished both with green olives or an orange slice. Either served in a wine glass or a rocks glass, the spritz is most often served with ice.

If the wine is cold, I tend to skip the ice.