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Red Bitter Aperitif

While the base origin of all spritzes is the “Spritzer” (the soda siphon), the story of the “Spritz” we commonly see in Italy today shares a history with Cappelletti in the Triveneto. This drink is most typically a combination of a red bitter with wine, soda, and a slice of orange. Legend has it that the Emperor Franz Ferdinand enjoyed the bitter and sour notes when adding citrus into certain wines. During the First World War, soldiers of the Austrian Empire would order the Spritz to add depth to the local wine. Locals would counter that the Austrians could not handle the local bitter aperitivi without some dilution. As important as taste is the color, with Carmine (Cochineal) being a great source of pride (and wealth) for the region. This is because the all-natural color from carmine is a stunning crimson red, long prized in garments, food, and drink. Other, modern, iterations of red bitter use vegan-friendly color—all-natural flowers and fruits in the case of Cappelletti's Aperitivo Mazzura.

    Aperitivo Cappelletti bottle

    Aperitivo Cappelletti

    ItalyTrentino-Alto Adige 17.0% ABV

    17.0% ABV

    The Aperitivo Cappelletti, endearingly known to locals as just “Specialino”, may be the oldest style of the classic red bitter still in production. Unlike its larger commercial rivals, Cappelletti is less sweet and has a wonderful drying finish. Additionally, it still uses natural carmine color for a crimson red and retains a vinous texture from its wine base. It offers a vibrant and flavorful profile, complemented by bitter undertones on a traditional wine base. This yields a Negroni or Spritz that is dry and refreshing in the finish. It is made just outside of Trento in Alto Adige by the Cappelletti family, who also produce a number of other exceptional aperitivi and amari. Full details

    Aperitivo Cappelletti label
    Aperitivo Mazzura bottle

    Aperitivo Mazzura

    ItalyTrentino-Alto Adige 17.0% ABV

    17.0% ABV

    Aperitivo Mazzura distinguishes itself in both its multidimensional flavor and stunning fuchsia color. Botanicals are sourced from Dolomite hills and valleys in Italy's Triveneto region, birthplace of the spritz. Mazzura's color comes from a unique blend of flowers and fruits that is entirely natural and vegan-friendly. Try Mazzura in a Negroni, Boulevardier or Spritz. It is made just outside of Trento in Alto Adige by the Cappelletti family, who also produce a number of other exceptional aperitivi and amari. Full details

    Aperitivo Mazzura label