What is Campari

Campari is a renowned Italian aperitif that has become a staple in the world of cocktails and a favorite among discerning drinkers. With its vibrant red hue and distinctive bitter taste, Campari stands out as a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in various ways.

In this post, we will explore what Campari is, its ingredients, flavor profile, best brands, usage suggestions, food pairings, popular cocktails and even provide a recipe for homemade Campari.

What Is Campari?

Campari is a well-known Italian alcoholic beverage classified as an aperitif. Over the years, Campari has gained global recognition and popularity, becoming a symbol of Italian culture and sophistication.

History And Origins

Campari was created in 1860 by Gaspare Campari in Novara, Italy. The exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, passed down through generations. 

Initially marketed as a medicinal elixir, it quickly became popular as a refreshing aperitif.

Campari Vs Aperol

While both Campari and Aperol belong to the category of Italian bitters, they have distinct differences. Campari is known for its intense bitterness, vibrant red color, and complex flavor profile, with hints of herbs and spices. 

Aperol has a sweeter and milder taste and is characterized by its orange hue and subtle herbal notes.

What Is Campari Made Of?

The exact ingredients of Campari are a trade secret, but the known components include:

• a blend of herbs
• spices
• aromatic plants 
• fruit extracts
• neutral spirit base 

The infusion of these ingredients results in the unique and characteristic flavor of Campari.

What Does Campari Taste Like?

Campari is known for its bitter taste, balanced by a subtle sweetness. Its flavor profile is complex and multidimensional, with notes of herbs, spices, and citrus fruits. 

The bitterness, although initially intense, evolves into a pleasant and refreshing experience.

Best Campari Brands 

Campari is produced by the Campari Group, and their flagship brand is, unsurprisingly, Campari itself. However, several other brands produce excellent alternatives worth exploring, such as:

• Averna
• Cynar
• Luxardo Bitter

How To Use Campari

Campari is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways: 

• It is an important ingredient in classic cocktails like the Negroni and Americano
• It can also be mixed with soda water for a simple and refreshing spritz
• Campari can be used to enhance the flavor of desserts 
• It can be a creative addition to marinades and sauces

Pairing Campari With Food

The bitter and complex flavor profile of Campari pairs well with certain types of food. 

• Its herbal and citrus notes make it an excellent accompaniment to dishes with strong flavors, such as aged cheeses, cured meats, and savory appetizers. 
• It provides a refreshing contrast when enjoyed alongside rich chocolate desserts or fruity sorbets.

Popular Cocktails And Drinks With Campari

Campari is an essential ingredient in several iconic cocktails. 

• Negroni: It consists of equal parts Campari, gin, and sweet vermouth which is a timeless classic. 
• Aperol Spritz: It is made with Campari’s cousin Aperol which is another popular choice. 

Other notable cocktails are:

• Boulevardier
• Americano
• Campari Sour

Where To Buy Campari?

Campari is widely available in liquor stores, supermarkets, and online retailers. 

It can be found in various sizes, ranging from small bottles to larger ones, depending on your needs.

How To Store Campari?

Campari should be stored in a cool and dark place, away from direct sunlight. 

It does not require refrigeration but should be consumed within a reasonable timeframe after opening to maintain its optimal flavor.

FAQs

How is Campari made?

Campari is created through a meticulous process that combines herbs, spices, fruits, and alcohol. The exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, known only to a small group of individuals. However, it is widely believed that Campari’s distinct flavor comes from a blend of herbs and fruits including:

• bitter orange peel
• rhubarb 
• ginseng
• cinchona bark

These ingredients are macerated and infused with alcohol, which gives Campari its vibrant hue and bitter taste. The final product is then filtered and bottled.

Where is Campari from?

Campari was first crafted in 1860 by Gaspare Campari in the city of Novara, Italy. The spirit gained popularity in Milan, where Gaspare opened his first bar and began serving his signature creation.

Is Campari an aperitif or a liqueur?

Campari is classified as an aperitif, specifically a bitter aperitif. Aperitifs are usually consumed before a meal to stimulate the appetite and prepare the palate for the forthcoming dining experience. 

Can you drink Campari straight?

While Campari is often consumed as a component of various cocktails, it is possible to enjoy it straight. 

Sipping Campari neat allows you to appreciate its unique taste profile, but some may prefer to dilute it with a splash of soda water or tonic to mellow out the bitterness.

Is Campari an acquired taste?

Campari’s distinctive bitter taste can be an acquired taste for some individuals. The combination of aromatic herbs and zesty fruits creates a complex flavor profile that might take a few sips to fully appreciate. 

If you are new to Campari, we recommend you to start by mixing it in cocktails where its bitterness can be balanced with other ingredients. Over time, you may develop an appreciation for its unique flavor.

How do you pronounce Campari?

The correct pronunciation of Campari is “kam-PAH-ree.” The stress is placed on the second syllable, and the “a” in the first syllable is pronounced as a short “a” sound.

Does Campari contain alcohol?

Yes, Campari contains alcohol. It usually has an alcohol content of around 20.5% to 28.5% by volume, depending on the country and specific variant. 

As with any alcoholic beverage, it is important to consume Campari responsibly and in moderation.