Campari, with its unmistakable ruby red hue and bold, bittersweet flavor, is one of Italy’s most iconic aperitifs. Since its creation in 1860 by Gaspare Campari in Novara, Italy, it has become a symbol of the Italian aperitivo—an early evening tradition that celebrates conversation, small bites, and light drinks to prepare the palate for dinner. Campari’s recipe remains a closely guarded secret, but its flavor is known to derive from the infusion of aromatic herbs, spices, and fruits in alcohol and water.
Originally, Campari’s vibrant color came from cochineal, a natural dye made from insects, but today it’s achieved using modern food-grade coloring. Regardless of how the hue is produced, it remains a defining characteristic—striking, festive, and instantly recognizable.
But Campari isn’t just about looks. Its layered bitterness and citrus-forward profile make it one of the most versatile ingredients in the cocktail world. Equally at home in refined hotel bars and relaxed street-side cafés, it plays a central role in both classic and contemporary mixology.
The Aperitif of Choice
At its core, Campari is designed to stimulate the appetite. Bitterness is known to trigger the salivary glands and wake up the senses—exactly what an aperitif is meant to do. That’s why Campari-based drinks often appear at the start of an Italian meal or social gathering.
Its bold profile also allows it to harmonize with a range of ingredients, from botanical gins to sweet vermouths and sparkling wines. This makes Campari not only a staple for professionals behind the bar but also for home bartenders seeking to elevate their pre-dinner ritual.
Classic Campari Cocktails:
Negroni
The Negroni has earned legendary status in the cocktail world. Made with equal parts Campari, gin, and sweet vermouth, it’s a bold, balanced drink with a deep complexity. Served over ice and garnished with an orange slice or twist, it’s the definitive expression of bitter elegance.
Americano
Lighter than the Negroni but just as satisfying, the Americano mixes Campari with sweet vermouth and soda water. This effervescent, low-alcohol option is ideal for warm evenings or early aperitivo hours.
Boulevardier
For those who enjoy a richer, rounder profile, the Boulevardier swaps the gin in a Negroni for bourbon. The result is a warming, bittersweet drink that highlights Campari’s darker, spicier notes.
Campari Spritz
A sparkling, refreshing twist, the Campari Spritz blends Campari with prosecco and soda water. It’s a more assertive cousin to the lighter Aperol Spritz, offering a sophisticated edge while maintaining a festive feel.
Campari Orange
Among the simplest ways to enjoy Campari is in the Campari Orange. Also known in Italy as the Garibaldi, this cocktail features just two ingredients: Campari and freshly squeezed orange juice. The result is a vibrant, citrusy drink that balances the bitterness of Campari with the natural sweetness and acidity of orange juice.
Unmistakably Italian
Whether served neat, on the rocks, or as part of a cocktail, Campari remains a pillar of Italian drinking culture. Its distinctive flavor and arresting color have secured its place on menus across the world—from traditional cafés in Milan to rooftop bars in Manhattan. In every pour, there’s a touch of old-world charm and modern mixology.
_ _
© Churrasco PHUKET STEAKHOUSE / ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Churrasco Phuket Steakhouse serves affordable Wagyu and Black Angus steaks and burgers. We are open daily from 12noon to 11pm at Jungceylon Shopping Center in Patong / Phuket.
We are family-friendly and offer free parking and WiFi for guests. See our menus, reserve your table, find our location, and check all reviews here:
https://Churrascophuket.com/
#Churrascophuket #jungceylon #phuketsteakhouse #affordablewagyu #wagyu