Campari is the bold, vivid-red Italian bitter that anchors some of the most iconic cocktails ever poured. Intensely bittersweet with sharp citrus and herbal depth, it is the unmistakable backbone of the Negroni and the Americano. At our cabin-inspired cocktail bar in West Seattle, Campari is a workhorse of the back bar. We reach for it constantly behind the stick, but it is also worth meeting on its own as an aperitivo, with soda and an orange twist, to wake up the palate before dinner.
About the Producer
Campari was invented in 1860 by Gaspare Campari in Italy and is produced by the Campari Group, the major Italian house that grew up around this single recipe. Made near Milan, its exact formula remains a closely guarded secret, with only bitter orange peel officially confirmed among its many botanicals.
Style & Flavor
Campari is an Italian bitter aperitivo, bottled at 24% ABV. It is made by macerating a large blend of botanicals, including bitter orange peel, in alcohol and water. The brand’s once-distinctive red color now comes from caramel coloring rather than its historic source. Compared with lighter aperitivi, Campari is markedly more bitter and assertive.
Tasting Notes
Expect a brilliant red color and aromas of bitter orange and herbs. The palate is boldly bittersweet, with sharp citrus peel, herbal and faintly medicinal notes, and a long, clean, bitter finish. It is intense and built to cut through richness.
How to Enjoy It at Camp West
Campari shines in the Negroni (with gin and sweet vermouth) and the Americano (with sweet vermouth and soda), both of which we are happy to mix. As a simple aperitivo, try it over ice with soda and an orange twist. A pour of Campari at Camp West is $10.
FAQ
What cocktails use Campari? Most famously the Negroni and the Americano, along with the Boulevardier and many other bittersweet classics.
Why is Campari so red? Its signature red color comes from caramel and added coloring; the recipe itself is a closely guarded blend of botanicals.
Ready to try it? Book a table, browse our liqueurs & amari list, or see the full beverage menu.