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Arancio Americano – Italian-Inspired Orange Americano Spritz

Originating in New York City’s Morandi restaurant scene in 2007, the Arancio Americano reimagines the classic Italian Americano highball by folding in the bright burst of a Mimosa. Sweet vermouth meets Campari’s signature bitter edge, then softens under a splash of fresh orange juice. A final top-up of chilled prosecco lends effervescence and a dry finish, making this aperitivo ideal for brunch, sunset gatherings or anytime you want a balanced, bitters-weet refresher. The blend of citrusy sweetness, herbal bitterness and lively bubbles evokes Mediterranean afternoons and sophisticated bar culture. This cocktail celebrates the art of simple layering—no shaking required—and highlights the harmony between Italy’s iconic liqueurs and sparkling wine. Serve it in a large wine glass to concentrate the aromas, and let each sip transport you to an al fresco terrace overlooking the Amalfi Coast.

Beverage | Italian | Dairy-Free | Egg-Free | Gluten-Free | Nut-Free | Shellfish-Free | Soy-Free | Vegan | Vegetarian | Cocktail | Wine Glass | Campari | Fortified Wine | Orange Juice | Prosecco | Layering | Stirring | Aperitif | Casual Gathering | Cocktail Party | Warm Weather | Under 5 Minutes
Time to complete

Prep

3min

Cook

0 minutes

Wait

0 minutes

Total

3min

Ingredients (Makes 1 cocktail)
  • Ice cubes
  • 3/4 ounce (22 ml) sweet vermouth
  • 1/2 ounce (15 ml) Campari
  • 1 ounce (30 ml) fresh orange juice
  • 2 ounces (60 ml) chilled prosecco
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 98 kcal per 100 g
  • Fat: 0 g per 100 g
  • Protein: 0 g per 100 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7.5 g per 100 g
  • Fiber: 0 g per 100 g
Directions

Chill & Prepare

  • 1. Fill a large wine glass with ice cubes to chill the glass.

Mix Cocktail

  • 2. Pour 3/4 ounce (22 ml) sweet vermouth, 1/2 ounce (15 ml) Campari and 1 ounce (30 ml) fresh orange juice over the ice. Stir gently for about 10 seconds.

Finish & Serve

  • 3. Top with 2 ounces (60 ml) chilled prosecco. Give one final gentle stir and serve immediately.
Cookix's Secrets

Alcohol-Free

  • Replace sweet vermouth with non-alcoholic vermouth alternative and Campari with non-alcoholic bitters; top with soda water.

Citrus Swap

  • Substitute grapefruit juice for orange juice for a tangier, slightly more bitter edge.

Drier Style

  • Use dry vermouth instead of sweet vermouth for a crisp, less sweet profile.

Glassware

  • Use a large red wine glass or copa glass to allow aromas to concentrate and give space for ice and bubbles.

Ingredient Quality

  • Always use freshly squeezed orange juice for the brightest, least bitter citrus flavor.

Lighter Twist

  • Swap Campari for Aperol to soften bitterness and add a floral sweetness.

Rosé Sparkle

  • Exchange prosecco for a dry sparkling rosé to introduce delicate berry notes.

Seasonal Touch

  • Add a few pomegranate arils in autumn and winter for a pop of color and festive flavor.

Stirring Technique

  • Stir gently with a bar spoon to chill and dilute without over-aerating the prosecco.

Temperature

  • Keep your prosecco and vermouth well chilled in the fridge before mixing to avoid quick melting of ice.