Pirlo Cocktail

Pirlo Cocktail
By Master Chef Gianluca Deiana Abis
History of the Pirlo Cocktail
The Pirlo is a traditional aperitivo cocktail from Brescia, in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. It is often considered the "Brescian Spritz", a predecessor to the Venetian Aperol Spritz but with a unique identity of its own.
The name Pirlo comes from the Brescian dialect, referring to the way the heavier red bitter liqueur "falls" into the white wine, creating a beautiful swirl. This drink has been enjoyed for decades as a pre-dinner ritual in Brescia’s lively piazzas and cafés, usually served in a large wine glass rather than a tumbler.
Unlike the Aperol Spritz, the Pirlo is made with still white wine instead of Prosecco, giving it a lighter and more delicate fizz. It's the perfect aperitivo to enjoy before a meal, as it stimulates the appetite without being overly sweet.
Recipe for the Pirlo Cocktail
Ingredients:
90 ml (3 oz) Still White Wine (Lugana DOC recommended)
30 ml (1 oz) Campari or Aperol (Campari for a more bitter profile, Aperol for a milder taste)
Splash of Sparkling Water or Soda
Ice cubes
Orange slice for garnish
Instructions:
Fill a large wine glass with ice.
Pour in the white wine.
Gently add the Campari or Aperol, letting it "pirlo" (swirl) through the wine.
Top with a splash of sparkling water to enhance the effervescence.
Garnish with an orange slice.
Serve immediately and enjoy while chilled.
Perfect Aperitivo Pairing: Polenta e Gorgonzola
The Pirlo’s light bitterness pairs wonderfully with creamy, strong cheeses like Gorgonzola, especially when served with traditional grilled polenta slices.
Ingredients for the Pairing:
150g Gorgonzola Dolce (soft, creamy version)
200g Polenta (cooked and cut into slices)
1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Fresh rosemary, for garnish
Instructions:
Grill the polenta slices in a pan with a little olive oil until golden brown on both sides.
Top each polenta slice with a spoonful of Gorgonzola.
Garnish with fresh rosemary for a fragrant touch.
Serve warm alongside the Pirlo cocktail.
This pairing balances the bitter-sweet notes of the Pirlo with the rich, creamy Gorgonzola and the rustic texture of polenta, creating a classic northern Italian aperitivo experience.
Comments