Campari, a bright red Italian liqueur, is known for its unique bitter and citrusy flavor profile. Adding it to cocktails can transform a drink, giving it a rich and distinct taste. Whether you are throwing a party or simply looking to elevate your drink, Campari cocktails can offer something special.
Discovering the perfect Campari cocktail can elevate your mixology skills and impress your guests. From classic favorites to modern twists, the world of Campari cocktails is vast and exciting. Dive into this collection of 15 Campari cocktails to find your new favorite drink.
1) Negroni
The Negroni is a classic cocktail that dates back to 1919. It was created in Florence, Italy by bartender Fosco Scarselli. He made it for Count Camillo Negroni, who wanted something stronger than his usual Americano.
You will need three ingredients: gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari. Each is added in equal parts, making the recipe simple and easy to remember.
First, fill a glass with ice. Add one ounce each of gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari. Stir gently to combine.
For the garnish, squeeze an orange twist over the glass to release its oils. Then, either drop the twist into the drink or use an orange slice. The citrus adds a bright note against the bitter and sweet flavors.
The Negroni’s appeal lies in its balance. The bitterness of Campari contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the vermouth. The gin adds a herbal depth that ties everything together.
This cocktail is both sophisticated and straightforward, making it a favorite among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike. It can be enjoyed before dinner as an aperitif or as a refreshing drink on any occasion.
2) Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is a classic cocktail made with three main ingredients: bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth. It’s a great choice if you enjoy drinks with a bold and complex taste.
To make a Boulevardier, start by adding ice to a mixing glass. Pour in equal parts (1 oz each) of bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
Stir the mixture for about 30 seconds to chill the drink. Then, strain it into a rocks glass filled with ice. For garnish, add an orange peel to bring out the citrus flavors.
This cocktail’s blend of sweet, bitter, and strong flavors makes it unique. The boldness of the bourbon pairs well with the bittersweet notes of Campari and the rich, sweet flavor of vermouth.
A Boulevardier is perfect for those who enjoy whiskey-based drinks with a sophisticated twist. You can experiment with different bourbons or vermouths to find your favorite combination.
3) Americano
The Americano cocktail is a simple, refreshing drink that dates back to the 1860s. It was first served at Gaspare Campari’s bar in Milan, Italy. The drink got its name due to its popularity with American tourists.
You only need three ingredients to make an Americano: Campari, sweet vermouth, and club soda.
Fill a highball glass with ice. Add 1 ½ ounces of Campari and 1 ½ ounces of sweet vermouth. Top it off with a splash of chilled club soda. Stir gently to combine all the flavors.
The Americano’s bitterness comes from the Campari, which balances well with the sweetness of the vermouth. The club soda adds a refreshing fizz, making it perfect for warm days or as a light aperitif before a meal.
Campari’s bright red color also makes the Americano visually striking. It’s a great drink to serve at gatherings where presentation matters. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can quickly whip it up for guests.
If you enjoy classic cocktails with a bold, bittersweet flavor, give the Americano a try. It’s a timeless choice that never goes out of style.
4) Campari Spritz
The Campari Spritz is a refreshing and vibrant cocktail. It combines the bitterness of Campari with the bubbly sweetness of Prosecco. It’s easy to make and perfect for warm days.
To make a Campari Spritz, fill a wine glass with ice. Pour in 2 oz of Campari. Add 3 oz of Prosecco and 1 oz of soda water. Gently stir the mix.
For the final touch, garnish with a slice of orange or grapefruit. This not only looks beautiful but also adds a hint of citrus flavor.
Serve your Campari Spritz immediately. It’s best enjoyed cold while the bubbles are still fresh.
5) Garibaldi
The Garibaldi is a simple yet classic Italian cocktail. It combines just two ingredients: Campari and orange juice. Despite its simplicity, this drink offers a unique mix of flavors.
Start with a Collins or highball glass filled with ice. Pour in the Campari first. Use about 1.5 ounces to get the right balance of bitterness.
Top off the drink with freshly squeezed orange juice. Fresh juice ensures the best flavor. Aim for about 4 ounces of orange juice.
You can also give the drink a quick stir. This will blend the Campari and orange juice together well. The result is a refreshing, slightly bitter beverage with a hint of sweetness.
Garnish with an orange wedge. This adds a nice touch and enhances the citrus flavor. The Garibaldi is a perfect cocktail for any occasion. Enjoy it on a warm afternoon or at a casual evening get-together.
6) Campari Orange
The Campari Orange is a simple yet refreshing cocktail. It’s made with just two ingredients: Campari and freshly squeezed orange juice. This drink combines the bitter-sweet taste of Campari with the bright, tangy flavor of orange juice.
To make a Campari Orange, start by filling a glass with ice. Pour in the Campari and then top it with orange juice. You can make the orange juice even better by “fluffing” it. Use a blender or a handheld frother to mix the juice until it’s foamy.
Stir the drink gently to combine the flavors. Adding a small pinch of salt can enhance the taste even more. Garnish with an orange wedge or slice to make it look as good as it tastes.
This cocktail is simple to make but offers a complex taste experience. It’s a great choice for a hot day or whenever you need a refreshing drink.
7) Jungle Bird
The Jungle Bird is a fascinating mix of tropical and Italian flavors. This cocktail was created in 1978 at the Aviary bar of the Kuala Lumpur Hilton. Its unique combination of rum, Campari, and pineapple juice makes it stand out.
To make a Jungle Bird, you need dark rum, Campari, pineapple juice, lime juice, and simple syrup. Start by filling a shaker with ice. Pour in the dark rum, Campari, pineapple juice, lime juice, and simple syrup. Shake well until chilled.
Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice. You can use either a rocks glass or a tiki glass. For garnish, add a pineapple slice and a maraschino cherry.
The Jungle Bird is known for its bitter-sweet balance. The Campari provides a bitter note, while the pineapple juice and simple syrup add sweetness. This creates a complex and refreshing drink.
If you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of rum and Campari. Some variations even suggest adding an egg white for a frothy texture.
8) Old Pal
The Old Pal cocktail is a classic that dates back to the 1920s. It offers a unique blend of rye whiskey, dry vermouth, and Campari.
This cocktail stands out for its balance of flavors. The rye whiskey provides a strong base with a bit of spice. The dry vermouth adds a lighter, herbal note.
Campari’s bitterness ties it all together, creating a refreshing drink. A lemon twist garnish enhances its bright, crisp profile.
You’ll appreciate how these ingredients come together. Each sip offers a mix of bitter, sweet, and spicy flavors.
Making this cocktail is simple. Combine equal parts rye whiskey, dry vermouth, and Campari. Stir with ice until chilled.
Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with a lemon twist. Perfect for a sophisticated and flavorful drinking experience.
9) Paper Plane
The Paper Plane cocktail is a delightful mix of equal parts bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice. This drink has a light, refreshing taste with a balanced sweetness.
To make a Paper Plane, you need 1.5 ounces each of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Combine these ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Shake vigorously until the shaker’s exterior feels cold. This helps blend the flavors well and gives the drink a nice chill. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass to serve.
Garnish your Paper Plane with a small lemon twist or an adorable mini paper plane for a fun touch. The bright, citrusy flavor pairs well with the herbal and bitter notes from the Aperol and Amaro Nonino.
Invented in 2007 by bartender Sam Ross, the Paper Plane has quickly become a favorite in many bars. Despite its modern origins, it has already earned a spot among cocktail classics, thanks to its easy-to-remember recipe and delightful flavor.
This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a balanced, refreshing drink with a hint of bitterness. Give it a try and discover why it has become so popular in such a short time.
10) Campari and Soda
The Campari and Soda is a classic cocktail that is simple yet refreshing. It has been popular for over a century and is often enjoyed as an aperitif.
To make this drink, fill a glass with ice. Pour in 2 ounces of Campari. Top it off with 4 ounces of club soda. Stir gently to mix.
You can garnish the drink with an orange or lemon peel. Express the oils over the drink and add the peel to the glass. This adds a nice citrus aroma and flavor.
The Campari and Soda has a light, slightly bitter taste. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a drink that is not too sweet. The soda water makes it bubbly and refreshing. Enjoy this drink on a warm day or as a start to your evening.
11) Campari Tonic
The Campari Tonic is a simple yet refreshing cocktail. It’s easy to make and perfect for hot summer days.
To prepare, start by filling a glass with ice. Add one part Campari and three parts tonic water.
Garnish with a slice of lime or an orange wheel for an extra touch of citrus.
The bitterness of Campari pairs well with the bubbly and slightly sweet tonic water.
This drink has a bright red color that stands out at any gathering.
Experiment with different tonic waters to find the one you like best.
12) Campari Shakerato
The Campari Shakerato is a simple yet elegant cocktail that highlights the bold flavors of Campari. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a quick and refreshing drink.
To make a Campari Shakerato, you’ll need a cocktail shaker and some basic ingredients. Start by filling your shaker with ice.
Next, add 2 ounces of Campari. For a touch of sweetness, pour in 1 ounce of simple syrup. Then, squeeze in 1 ounce of fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick.
Close the shaker tightly. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to mix everything well and chill the drink. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass to serve.
Garnish your Campari Shakerato with an orange twist for a burst of color and a hint of citrus aroma. This bright, bitter, and slightly sweet drink is perfect for a summer evening.
13) Sbagliato
The Sbagliato is a variation of the classic Negroni. It was created by mistake, which is fitting since “sbagliato” means “mistaken” in Italian.z
To make a Sbagliato, you will need three ingredients: Campari, sweet vermouth, and sparkling wine.
Start by filling a glass with ice. Add one ounce of Campari and one ounce of sweet vermouth. Stir gently to combine.
Next, top off the drink with one ounce of prosecco or your preferred sparkling wine. Stir again, but gently, to mix the ingredients.
Garnish your Sbagliato with an orange twist or slice. This adds a citrus aroma that complements the drink.
The Sbagliato offers a lighter and bubblier twist on the original Negroni, making it perfect for those who enjoy a fizzy cocktail. Enjoy responsibly.
14) Italian Sunset
The Italian Sunset is a beautiful and refreshing cocktail. It’s made with Campari and fresh orange juice, giving it a wonderful balance of bitter and sweet flavors. You’ll also need a bit of club soda to add some fizz.
Start by filling a glass with ice. Add 1.5 ounces of Campari, then pour in fresh orange juice until the glass is about three-quarters full. Top it off with a splash of club soda for a light, bubbly finish.
Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. Garnish with a slice of orange to enhance its vibrant look and citrus flavors.
Enjoy your Italian Sunset on a warm day, and let its bright, cheerful color and taste transport you straight to an Italian summer evening.
15) Bicicletta
The Bicicletta is a delightful Italian cocktail that combines white wine and Campari. It’s perfect for warm weather, thanks to its light and refreshing taste.
You start by pouring white wine into a glass. Add Campari, which gives the drink its distinctive bitter flavor. Many recipes prefer a double rocks glass or a wine glass for this cocktail.
Next, fill the glass with ice, about three-quarters full. Top it off with club soda to add some bubbles. Stir gently and briefly to mix the ingredients.
For a finishing touch, garnish your Bicicletta with orange wheels or a twist of lemon peel. This simple cocktail is not too strong and not too sweet, making it great for summer.
History of Campari
Campari has a rich history that began in Italy and evolved to gain global recognition. It started as a local aperitivo and grew to become a beloved ingredient worldwide.
Origins and Evolution
Campari was invented in 1860 by Gaspare Campari in Novara, Italy. The bright red aperitivo quickly made a name for itself with its distinctive bitter and herbal taste. Gaspare’s innovative recipe combined 68 ingredients, including herbs, spices, and fruit peels.
In 1904, Campari opened its first production plant in Sesto San Giovanni, near Milan. This development marked the start of its industrial production. Over the years, Campari’s popularity surged, leading to the creation of iconic cocktails like the Negroni in 1919 by Count Camillo Negroni.
Global Influence
Campari’s influence extended beyond Italy, becoming a key ingredient in many classic cocktails. By the late 20th century, it became a staple in bars worldwide. The Americano and Negroni became famous drinks that showcased Campari’s versatility.
Campari’s sponsorship of International Bartenders Association (IBA) official cocktails, such as the Boulevardier and Old Pal, solidified its status. Today, Campari remains a popular choice for cocktails and spritzes around the globe, with its legacy deeply rooted in both tradition and innovation.
Key Ingredients and Characteristics
Campari cocktails are known for their distinctive taste and quality. Understanding their unique flavor profile and the meticulous production process helps you appreciate these drinks even more.
Unique Flavor Profile
Campari has a distinctively bitter taste with an underlying sweetness. It includes herbs, fruits, and aromatic plants which create a complex blend of flavors. The bitterness comes from cinchona and gentian, while the sweetness is derived from sugar and various fruits.
This combination makes Campari versatile in cocktails. It pairs well with spirits like gin, whiskey, and vermouth. Examples include the classic Negroni and Boulevardier. The striking red color is another signature aspect, making it visually appealing in mixed drinks.
Quality and Production
The production of Campari involves a secret recipe that has remained unchanged since its creation. The process includes infusing alcohol with blends of herbs and fruits for an extended period, ensuring depth and consistency in flavor.
Quality control is strict; only the best ingredients are used. Each bottle undergoes rigorous testing to maintain the high standards set by the brand. This dedication to quality results in a reliable product that enhances any cocktail.
Campari’s enduring appeal lies in its meticulous craftsmanship and rich flavor profile, setting it apart in the world of liqueurs.
Perfect Pairings for Campari Cocktails
Pairing Campari cocktails with the right foods and spirits can enhance your drinking experience. Experiment with these ideas to find the best combinations.
Ideal Foods
Campari cocktails go well with a variety of foods that balance their unique bitterness. Cheese is a classic choice, especially stronger flavors like blue cheese or aged Gouda. These pairings provide a bold contrast to the citrus and herbal notes in Campari.
Cured meats, such as prosciutto or salami, bring out the complexities in the drink. The saltiness of these meats complements the sweetness and bitterness of Campari.
Fruits, especially those with citrus elements like oranges and grapefruits, also pair well. Such fruits echo and amplify the citrus components of the cocktail.
Pizza and Italian dishes like bruschetta or pasta with red sauce can be wonderful companions. These dishes often have acidic and savory components that match well with Campari’s profile.
Complementary Spirits
When mixing Campari with other spirits, certain choices stand out. Whiskey, for instance, blends well due to its richness. A Boulevardier—a mix of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari—offers depth and warmth.
Rum is another excellent option. In cocktails like the Jungle Bird, rum’s sweetness balances Campari’s bitterness, creating a vibrant and intriguing blend.
Gin and Campari form the base of the classic Negroni. The botanical notes of gin meld beautifully with Campari’s herbal characteristics.
For a lighter option, white wine can be mixed with Campari, as seen in the Bicicletta. Adding soda water gives it a refreshing, bubbly texture, making it ideal for warm weather.
