Campari Cocktails
Campari is a bright red Italian bitter liqueur defined by its intense notes of grapefruit, chinotto, and medicinal herbs. Gaspare Campari developed the secret recipe in 1860, and it has since become the foundational ingredient for the Italian aperitivo tradition. Its flavor profile is aggressive and bittersweet, which makes it a useful tool for balancing sugar and acidity in cocktails. Home bartenders often use it to provide structure to drinks like the Negroni, where it stands up to bold gin and sweet vermouth. When paired with bourbon or rye, as seen in the Boulevardier and Old Pal, Campari highlights the oak and spice of the whiskey. It also functions well in long drinks; adding club soda for an Americano or sparkling wine for a Spritz softens the bitterness. Even a simple addition to a pale lager creates a crisp, herbal profile. This liqueur pairs naturally with citrus twists and salty appetizers.
Old Pal
A drier, spicier riff on the classic Boulevardier, the Old Pal dates back to 1920s Paris. By swapping bourbon for rye and sweet vermouth for dry, this cocktail offers a crisp, bitter, and sophisticated profile perfect for an aperitif.
Negroni
A timeless Italian classic, the Negroni is a widely adored apéritif known for its perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and botanical flavors. Composed of equal parts Gin, Campari, and Sweet Vermouth, it offers a sophisticated drinking experience with a vibrant red hue.
Boulevardier
A sophisticated cousin to the Negroni, the Boulevardier swaps gin for rye whiskey, resulting in a rich, complex, and warming cocktail. This balance of bitter, sweet, and herbal notes makes for a perfect autumnal aperitif.
Campari Beer
A refreshing and sophisticated twist on a cold lager, adding a splash of the iconic Italian aperitif Campari. The bitter herbal notes of the liqueur cut through the malt of the beer, creating a crisp, dry drink perfect for a hot summer afternoon.
Campari Spritz
A bold variation of the classic Italian aperitivo, this cocktail combines the intense, bittersweet herbal notes of Campari with crisp Prosecco and a refreshing splash of soda. It is an ideal pre-dinner drink designed to awaken the palate.
Americano
A sophisticated and refreshing low-ABV classic that serves as the lighter, fizzy ancestor to the Negroni. Originating from Milan, this cocktail perfectly balances the bittersweet notes of Campari and herbal sweet vermouth with a sparkling splash of soda.