The 10 best Campari cocktails
Introduction
Rediscover Bold Flavors with Campari Cocktails!
If you're on a quest to explore vibrant and bold-flavored cocktails, this listicle is your handy guide.
Known for its remarkable infusion of herbs, spices, and fruit, our key ingredient boasts a distinctive bitterness that brings an unparalleled depth to any drink. Its deep red hue and stimulating taste profile make it a celebrated choice among mixologists seeking to add complexity and flair to their creations. The unique flavor of this ingredient can be best described as both bitter and sweet, a duality that makes it stand out in the crowded field of cocktail components. It serves as the cornerstone for a wide array of cocktails ranging from pre-dinner aperitifs to late-night sippers. Whether you're a fan of whiskey, gin, or sparkling wine, the versatility found in these concoctions might just surprise you.
This collection of cocktail recipes is crafted for enthusiasts and novices alike, offering a rich palette of tastes and experiences. Perfect for social gatherings or quiet evenings, these recipes will guide you through the world of unique flavor combinations, ensuring your drink-making endeavors are as delightful as they are innovative.
Top 10 Campari cocktails
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· · · · · · Boulevardier
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· · · · · · Negroni
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· · · · · · Lucien Gaudin
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· · · · · · Best Man
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· · · · · · Colombo
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· · · · · · Spritz Al Bitter
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· · · · · · Six Cylinder
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· · · · · · Old Pal
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· · · · · · Uncle Neil
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· · · · · · Bitter Bull
Conclusion
More about Campari
1. Boulevardier
This cocktail stands as a testament to the harmony of bold flavors. By blending the herbal bitterness of Campari with the sweet vermouth and the depth of bourbon, it creates a rich, complex drink. The origins of this drink trace back to the early 20th century, embodying the elegance and sophistication of the era. Its balance between bitterness and sweetness, with a strong whiskey undertone, makes it a perennial favorite for those who appreciate a cocktail with depth and character.
Ingredients
Method
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- Pour all ingredients into a shaker with ice
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- Shake well and strain into chilled cocktail glass
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- Garnish with an orange wedge and serve
2. Negroni
As one of the most iconic Campari-based cocktails, this selection is defined by its equal parts gin, vermouth, and Campari. Its simplicity belies a complex interplay of flavors. Originating in Italy, it quickly gained fame for its balanced bitterness and aromatic complexity. The gin introduces a crisp, floral element that pairs exquisitely with Campari's bitter profile, making it a beloved cocktail for its elegant simplicity and vibrant flavor.
Ingredients
Method
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- Add all the ingredients directly into a lowball glass with ice and stir
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- Garnish with an orange slice and serve
3. Lucien Gaudin
Named after a famous French fencer, this cocktail exemplifies elegance and poise. The mix of dry gin and triple sec provides a crisp, citrusy base which is beautifully countered by the bitter notes of Campari and the herbal whispers of white vermouth. Its creation in the early 20th century brings with it a legacy of sophistication and refinement, offering a drink that is both vibrant and balanced, with a complexity that appeals to connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Method
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- Add the ingredients to a mixing glass filled with ice cubes
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- Stir and strain into a chilled cocktail glass
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- Garnish with an orange peel twist and serve
4. Best Man
This concoction is a modern twist on classic ingredients, combining the sweet richness of chocolate liqueur and chocolate bitters with the herbal bitterness of Campari and vermouth, rounded off with bourbon's warmth. A testament to the innovative spirit of contemporary cocktail culture, it offers a unique taste experience where the bitterness of Campari is nuanced by the subtly sweet and rich chocolate notes, creating a layered drink that fascinates with every sip.
Ingredients
Method
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- Stir all the ingredients in a mixing glass, before pouring into a rocks-filled highball glass
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- Garnish with an orange peel and serve
5. Colombo
A light, refreshing cocktail that beautifully showcases Campari's versatility with citrus flavors. The blend of lemon, lime, and orange juice provides a tart, zesty base, enhanced by the sweetness of gomme syrup and balanced by the bitterness of Campari. This concoction is a vibrant celebration of flavors, paying homage to sunny Mediterranean coasts. It's perfect for those who enjoy a drink that's as refreshing as it is complex.
Ingredients
Method
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- Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice
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- Shake well for 10-15 seconds or until the outside of the shaker becomes frosted
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- Strain into a highball glass over ice
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- Garnish with a couple of slices of orange and serve
6. Spritz Al Bitter
This cocktail is a shimmering example of Italian aperitivo culture, blending the bitter notes of Campari with sparkling prosecco and a splash of soda water for effervescence. Its popularity speaks to its ability to perfectly balance the bitterness with the light, bubbly sweetness of prosecco, embodying the essence of Italian leisure and conviviality. It's both an ode to tradition and a testament to the timeless appeal of well-balanced flavors.
Ingredients
Method
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- Pour all ingredients into lowball glass with ice
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- Stir gently then serve
7. Six Cylinder
A symphony of vermouths and spirits, this cocktail boasts a unique blend of cherry brandy, gin, and Dubonnet, unified by the bitterness of Campari. The combination creates a complex, sophisticated flavor profile that intrigues the palate. With origins dating back to cocktail lore, it's a drink that celebrates the art of mixology, inviting connoisseurs to explore its depth and nuances. The meticulous balance of ingredients exemplifies the craft of cocktail creation.
Ingredients
Method
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- Adding ingredients to a mixing glass over ice and stir, before straining into a chilled cocktail glass
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- Garnish with a lemon twist and serve
8. Old Pal
Embracing the robust flavors of rye whiskey and the aromatic sharpness of white vermouth, this cocktail is anchored by the distinct bitterness of Campari. Its creation offers a nod to the classic cocktails of the Prohibition era, capturing the spirit of innovation and the quest for complexity. This drink stands out for its bold, assertive flavors, making it a favorite among those who appreciate cocktails with character and a strong, engaging presence.
Ingredients
Method
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- Add all the ingredients into a mixing glass with ice
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- Stir until well combined then strain into a chilled cocktail glass
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- Garnish with an orange slice and serve
9. Uncle Neil
Blending the warmth of brandy with the smoothness of bourbon and the bitter notes of Campari, this cocktail is a harmonious mix of robust flavors. The subtle addition of both orange and Angostura bitters complements the red and white vermouth, creating a drink that's both complex and balanced. It's a sophisticated choice, ideal for sipping slowly and savoring the intricate layers of flavors that embody the spirit of meticulous cocktail craftsmanship.
Ingredients
Method
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- Combine the ingredients in a mixing glass filled with ice, stir then strain into a highball glass filled with ice and serve
10. Bitter Bull
This cocktail offers a daring blend of brightness and energy. By combining the citrus notes of orange juice with the uplifting zest of an energy drink and the deep bitterness of Campari, it introduces a revitalizing and bold mix. The inclusion of cachaça adds a sugarcane sweetness, creating a layered drink that is as intriguing as it is invigorating. Its unique composition speaks to adventurous palates, bridging the gap between traditional bitter cocktails and modern, dynamic flavors.
Ingredients
Method
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- Add the cachaça, Campari and orange juice to a cocktail shaker with ice
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- Strain into a highball glass over ice and top up with Red Bull
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- Garnish with an orange peel and serve
Conclusion
These top 10 cocktails were thoughtfully selected based on their popularity, uniqueness, and harmony of flavors.
Each drink highlights the distinctive character of the main ingredient, integrating it with other elements to create a harmonious blend. These recipes stand out because they not only honor the iconic bitterness but also offer a delightful twist with unexpected pairings. Dive into these concoctions to experience the finest cocktails that creatively showcase the essence of this remarkable ingredient.
More info
Want to discover more?
- View all the cocktails that contain Campari where you can filter and search the list.
- View the dedicated ingredient page for Campari
More about Campari
Who invented Campari, and when was it first introduced?
Campari was created by Gaspare Campari in Novara, Italy, in 1860. Gaspare was a master drink maker who developed the original formula, which remains a closely guarded secret to this day. The distinctive red aperitif quickly became popular and has since become an iconic Italian beverage known worldwide for its unique bitter taste and versatility in cocktails.
What can I use as a substitute for Campari in a cocktail?
If you're looking for a substitute for Campari in a cocktail, consider Aperol for a slightly sweeter and less bitter taste, or Gran Classico if you desire a similar bitterness with a different herbal complexity. Cynar, another Italian bitter liqueur but with artichoke as its predominant flavor, can also serve as an interesting alternative, offering a unique twist on traditional recipes.
What are some classic cocktails that feature Campari?
Campari is a key ingredient in several classic cocktails. The Negroni, made with gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, is perhaps the most famous. The Americano (Campari, sweet vermouth, and club soda) and the Spritz Veneziano, also known as an Aperol Spritz when made with Aperol instead of Campari, are other popular choices where Campari's unique flavor shines.
How should Campari be stored to maintain its flavor?
To preserve the flavor and quality of Campari, it should be stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and drastic temperature changes. While refrigeration is not necessary, keeping it at a consistent, moderate temperature helps maintain its distinctive taste. Once opened, the bottle can be tightly sealed and stored in the same manner, as Campari doesn't typically expire due to its alcohol content, but its flavor may wane over a long period.
How has Campari contributed to Italian culture and lifestyle?
Campari has played a significant role in Italian culture and lifestyle not just as a beverage, but as a symbol of Italian sophistication and style. Its association with art, fashion, and cinema has further solidified its status. Campari has sponsored and been featured in numerous art and film projects, promoting Italian elegance around the world. The ritual of the aperitivo, often featuring Campari-based drinks, is a cherished Italian tradition, highlighting the liqueur's role in fostering social connections and culinary enjoyment.