Drinks Cocktails Campari Soda Be the first to rate & review! This cocktail features Campari, Aperol's more intense and bitter cousin. By Carey Jones and John D. McCarthy Carey Jones and John D. McCarthy Carey Jones is a cocktail writer and John McCarthy is a mixologist. Together the couple contributed a weekly Food & Wine column called "Liquor Cabinet Roulette." They also co-authored the cocktail book, Be Your Own Bartender. Food & Wine's Editorial Guidelines Updated on December 22, 2023 Rate PRINT Share Trending Videos Close this video player Cook Time: 5 mins Total Time: 5 mins Servings: 1 Yield: 1 drink As with many intense amari (plural for amaro), Campari is an acquired taste. It's similar to but not quite as medicinal as the audacious Fernet. For those that have acquired the taste, Campari quickly becomes a staple in their spirits collection. Campari has perhaps one of the biggest personalities of all amari with a flavor profile leaning towards the bitter end of the spectrum and a distinctiveness that's hard to put your finger on, but when you taste it, you know what it is. Its flavor gives the illustrious Negroni its unmistakable bittersweet backbone. Frequently asked questions When should I make this cocktail? This Campari and Soda is best served as an aperitivo, a bitter, late-afternoon drink. The most famous aperitif is, of course, the globally recognized Aperol Spritz. Campari and Aperol share similarities, but Campari wins in the bitter department, as it is best suited for folks who prefer drinks that don't shy away from intensity. Campari also has a stronger ABV (alcohol by volume) at 28%, with Aperol hovering at 11% ABV. What is the difference between Campari and Aperol? Though Campari stands out for its singular flavor, its bittersweetness makes it one of the most versatile cocktail ingredients out there. Its ruby-red hue is one of the prettiest too, which was originally derived from carmine dye sourced from the shells of cochineal insects. In 2006 the Campari Group switched to a synthetic substitute. Notes from the Food & Wine Test Kitchen This aperitif is a celebration of Campari in its pure and unadulterated form. Campari makes a spectacular accompaniment to other spirits but is super tasty on its own and complex enough to make an incredible aperitif with just two ingredients (three, if you count the orange garnish). A hefty dose of Campari, a big splash of soda water, and an orange slice make this a great pre-dinner sipper that couldn't be quicker to whip up. Tip: If you're asked to bring alcohol to an event, bring along a bottle of Campari and soda water and see how many friends you make. Ingredients 1 1/2 ounces Campari 5 ounces club soda Orange slice, to garnish Directions Add Campari to a tall glass with ice. Top with club soda. Garnish with orange slice. Rate It Print