Sanbitter Spritz

A vibrant red non-alcoholic spritz using San Pellegrino's Sanbitter – bitter, refreshing, and visually stunning

Sanbittèr is the product of San Pellegrino's Italian aperitivo tradition, a non-alcoholic bitter aperitif that has been produced since 1961 and made its mark on Italian bar culture as a genuine alternative for those who wanted the experience of aperitivo hour without the alcohol. San Pellegrino itself was founded in 1899 in the town of San Pellegrino Terme in the Lombard Alps of northern Italy, where natural mineral springs had been exploited for their water since at least the 15th century — Leonardo da Vinci reportedly visited in 1509. The mineral water brand launched a broader range of Italian-style sodas under the Sanpellegrino label during the 20th century, with Sanbittèr — its distinctive bright red bitter soda — becoming one of the category's most recognizable products. The drink's deep red color and bittersweet, citrus-and-herb flavor profile were designed to mirror the sensory experience of the alcoholic aperitivi that define Italian pre-dinner culture, particularly Campari and Aperol, both of which are similarly red, bitter, and citrus-forward. As the Italian aperitivo ritual spread globally through the 2010s — driven by Aperol Spritz's international popularity — Sanbittèr gained recognition outside Italy as the non-alcoholic entry point to the same flavor world. Combined with tonic or soda water, ice, and an orange slice in a wine glass, it delivers a visually and aromatically faithful aperitivo experience.