The bright red Italian bitter behind the Negroni, the Americano and the Campari Spritz.
What it is
Campari is a bitter aperitivo liqueur bottled at 48 proof (24% ABV) in a 750 ml bottle. Its vivid red color and bittersweet profile have made it a staple of Italian aperitivo culture and of classic cocktail bars around the world.
Where and how it's made
- Created in Novara, Italy, in 1860 by Gaspare Campari and produced today near Milan, in Lombardy
- Made by infusing bitter herbs, aromatic plants and fruit in alcohol and water
- The exact recipe is a closely kept secret and has stayed unchanged for generations
Tasting notes
- Nose: bitter orange peel, cherry and herbs
- Palate: bittersweet, with orange, rhubarb, gentle spice and a firm bitter edge
- Finish: long, dry and pleasantly bitter
Serving and pairing
Mix equal parts with gin and sweet vermouth for a Negroni, top with soda for a Campari and soda, or with prosecco for a spritz. Pairs with olives, salumi, aged cheeses and salty aperitivo snacks. Store the bottle upright in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat.