Whether you’ve sipped a Negroni at a rooftop bar or tried a bold Americano before dinner, chances are you’ve tasted the unmistakable bitterness of Campari. But what makes this vivid red liqueur such a timeless classic?
In this post, we dive deep into the story, flavor, and versatility of Campari Bitter—a cornerstone of aperitivo culture and a must-have for any serious bar cart.
- What is Campari? - Campari's Origins & Story - Tasting Notes - How to Drink Campari - Campari vs. Aperol: Key - Differences - FAQs - Join the Bitter Revolution
Born in Italy and raised in cocktail bars around the world, Campari’s rise mirrors the evolution of modern drinking culture. Originally marketed as a medicinal tonic, it gained massive popularity as Italy’s social scene embraced aperitivo hour.
“Campari is not just a drink; it’s a ritual.”
From Milan to Manhattan, Campari has become a symbol of elegance, bitterness, and sophistication.
Campari is not for the faint-hearted—it’s bold, assertive, and unapologetically bitter. But that’s exactly why bartenders and enthusiasts love it.
Tasting Profile:
🍊 Citrus peel and orange zest
🌿 Gentian root, herbs, and spices
🍬 Bittersweet finish with caramel hints
The flavor evolves on the palate, making each sip a layered experience.
Campari is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it on its own, in cocktails, or even in food pairings.
Popular Ways to Drink Campari:
Negroni – Equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth
Americano – Campari, sweet vermouth, soda water
Campari Spritz – Campari, prosecco, soda (an Aperol Spritz alternative for bitter lovers)
Pro tip: Serve over ice with an orange wedge to unlock the full flavor.
While both are Italian bitters, they’re very different animals.
| Feature | Campari | Aperol |
|---|---|---|
| ABV | 20.5–28.5% | 11% |
| Flavor | Bitter, herbal | Sweet, citrusy |
| Color | Deep red | Bright orange |
| Best For | Negroni, Americano | Spritz, lighter drinks |
Is Campari vegan?
Historically, Campari used cochineal (an insect-based dye) for its red color, but modern Campari is now 100% vegan.
Does Campari expire?
Campari has a high alcohol content and no sugar, so it has a long shelf life. Just keep it in a cool, dark place.
Where can I buy Campari?
Most major liquor stores carry it, and it’s widely available online.
Love Campari? Hate it? Share your thoughts in the comments below—what’s your favorite way to drink it?
👉 Looking to expand your aperitivo game? Check out our guide to the Top 10 Italian Bitters for more bold discoveries.
