What Is Campari?
If you’ve ever sipped a Negroni or caught sight of a deep red cocktail at a trendy bar, chances are you’ve seen Campari at work. Campari is an iconic Italian bitter liqueur, known for its vibrant crimson hue and unmistakable flavor profile that blends bitter orange, herbs, and aromatic spices.
A Brief History of Campari
Campari was invented in 1860 by Gaspare Campari in Novara, Italy. The recipe has remained a closely guarded secret for over 160 years, known only to a handful of people. Originally served in Gaspare’s bar, the liqueur quickly gained a cult following and helped shape Italy’s aperitivo culture.
Today, Campari is sold in over 190 countries, symbolizing elegance, tradition, and the unmistakable charm of pre-dinner cocktails.
What’s in Campari?
While the full ingredient list is confidential, Campari is made through the infusion of herbs, aromatic plants, and fruit in alcohol and water. Its characteristic bitterness comes from a proprietary blend of botanicals, most notably bitter orange peels and rhubarb root.
- Alcohol content: 24%
- Color: Ruby red (once derived from cochineal, now synthetic)
- Flavor: Bittersweet, herbal, spicy, citrusy
- Flavor Profile: A Bold and Bitter Signature
Campari’s flavor delivers an assertive bitterness up front, followed by bright citrus notes and a warming herbal finish. The layered complexity makes it a bartender’s favorite for balancing sweeter elements in cocktails.
How Campari Is Used in Cocktails
As a bitter aperitif—a pre-meal drink meant to stimulate the appetite, Campari plays a starring role in classic and contemporary cocktails alike. Its intense flavor and rich color make it ideal for creating drinks with depth and visual flair.
Classic Campari Cocktails
Here are some of the most famous cocktails that feature Campari:
- Negroni – Equal parts Campari, gin, and sweet vermouth. A bold, balanced cocktail that’s become a global favorite.
- Americano – Campari, sweet vermouth, and soda water. Light, effervescent, and ideal before dinner.
- Boulevardier – A whiskey lover’s twist on the Negroni: Campari, bourbon, and sweet vermouth.
Tips for Mixing with Campari
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Balance is key: Because Campari is so bitter, pairing it with sweeter or more aromatic components—like vermouth or orange liqueur—softens its edge.
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Dilution helps: A splash of soda water or tonic can mellow the bitterness and bring out fruitier notes.
- Garnish wisely: A twist of orange peel or a slice of blood orange enhances the citrus in Campari.
When to Serve Campari Cocktails
Campari is traditionally served as an aperitif. It’s best enjoyed:
- During happy hour
- Before a dinner party
- On warm summer evenings
- When you want a drink with character.
Whether you're hosting friends or winding down after a long day, Campari cocktails make the moment feel elevated.
Is Campari the Same as Aperol?
Campari and Aperol are often mentioned in the same breath—and for good reason. They’re both Italian bitter liqueurs, made by the Campari Group, and commonly used in spritz-style cocktails. But they’re far from identical.
Campari vs Aperol: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Campari | Aperol |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Dark red | Bright orange |
| ABV | ~24% (varies by region) | 11% |
| Flavor | Bold, bitter, herbaceous | Light, sweet, slightly bitter |
| Signature Drink | Negroni, Boulevardier | Aperol Spritz |
When to Use Aperol vs Campari
- Choose Campari if you want a stronger, more bitter cocktail like a Negroni or Boulevardier.
Go for Aperol when you're craving something lighter and more sessionable, like an Aperol Spritz. - Campari is often preferred by seasoned cocktail enthusiasts who appreciate a punch of bitterness. Aperol is great for those just starting to explore bitter liqueurs or who prefer something sweeter and more approachable.
Sweet vs Bitter: Audience Preferences
- Campari appeals to: Fans of bold flavors, traditional cocktail lovers, those who enjoy herbal or amaro-style spirits.
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Aperol appeals to: Light drinkers, brunch crowds, and those who prefer citrusy or fruity notes.
Conclusion
Campari’s Signature Role in Cocktail Culture
Campari isn’t just a liqueur—it’s a ritual. It brings a sophisticated bitterness to your glass, plays well with a variety of ingredients, and anchors some of the most iconic cocktails in the world.
Whether you’re mixing a Negroni, sipping an Americano, or debating Campari vs Aperol for your next spritz, this bold bitter liqueur deserves a place in every home bar.
Ready to upgrade your cocktail game?
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Click here to shop the Campari collection.
- Click here to shop the Aperol collection.
