Campari
This equal-parts gin, Campari and sweet vermouth cocktail is a Negroni: bitter, herbal and gently sweet. Its simple 1:1:1 ratio makes it easy to mix without measuring a long list of ingredients.
Ingredients
- 30 mlgin
- 30 mlCampari
- 30 mlsweet red vermouth
Instructions
- 1
Combine the liquids
Pour all the liquid ingredients into a glass, using equal amounts of each spirit in a 1:1:1 ratio.
- 2
Stir briefly
Add it and stir briefly.
What is a Negroni?
A Negroni is an Italian aperitif made with gin, Campari and sweet vermouth in equal proportions. It is traditionally associated with Florence, though accounts of its origin vary.
This version keeps to the classic 1:1:1 balance. Gin brings juniper-led botanicals, Campari adds a pronounced bitter note, and vermouth rounds the drink with sweetness and herbs.
Nutrition and macros by portion
The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 180 calories, 0g protein, 12g carbs, 0g fat.
| Portion | Adjustment | kcal | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lighter | Smaller equal-parts pour | 126 kcal | 0g | 8g | 0g |
| This serving | As written | 180 kcal | 0g | 12g | 0g |
| Hungry | Serve with a snack | 270 kcal | 0g | 18g | 0g |
Most of this drink’s energy comes from the alcohol in the gin, Campari and vermouth; the vermouth and Campari also contribute most of the carbohydrates. It provides negligible protein and fat, so pair it with a savoury snack or food that adds protein if you want a more balanced serving.
Why equal parts work
Gin: Its botanical character gives the cocktail structure, so choose a gin whose flavour you enjoy neat.
Campari: This is the drink’s bitter, vividly coloured element. Its intensity is balanced rather than hidden by the other two ingredients.
Sweet vermouth: The wine-based vermouth softens the bitterness and adds aromatic sweetness. Keep it refrigerated after opening to help preserve its flavour.
Mixing the drink
Measure each ingredient carefully: the equal-parts ratio is the main technique in this short recipe. Pour them into the glass and stir briefly, as directed.
What to expect
The finished cocktail should taste bittersweet and botanical, with no single ingredient completely masking the others. If one flavour dominates, check that the three measures were equal.
The method does not specify ice or a garnish, so neither is included in the ingredient list. If you prefer a colder drink, you can serve it over ice as an optional choice.
Serving ideas
The Negroni is commonly served as an aperitif before a meal. Its bitter edge pairs well with savoury nibbles such as olives or salted nuts.
For a citrus aroma, an orange twist is a familiar optional garnish, though it is not part of this recipe.
Recipe notes & tips
- Measure all three ingredients to keep the intended balance.
- Use fresh vermouth and refrigerate the bottle once opened.
- Stir just briefly, as the method specifies.
- Taste the gin beforehand so its botanicals suit your preference.
- If serving over ice, use a sturdy glass and add the ice as an optional serving choice.
Variations
- Citrus garnish: Add an orange twist for a fragrant finish.
- Soda top-up: Add a splash of soda water for a longer, lighter-style drink.
- Bourbon swap: Replace the gin with bourbon for a sweeter, richer variation.
- Different gin: Choose a more citrus-led gin to shift the botanical character.
- Less bitter: Use a smaller equal-parts pour and adjust the balance to taste.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Unequal measures: One ingredient can overwhelm the others; measure each pour.
- Old vermouth: Its flavour can fade after opening; keep it chilled and use a fresh bottle.
- Over-stirring: The recipe calls for only a brief stir; stop once the ingredients are combined.
- Assuming the method specifies ice: It does not; treat ice as an optional serving choice.
- Expecting a sweet cocktail: Campari is distinctly bitter, so the finished drink is meant to have a bittersweet profile.
How to store
This cocktail is best mixed just before serving rather than stored once combined. Keep opened vermouth refrigerated and follow the bottle’s guidance for use after opening.
Frequently asked questions
Is this cocktail a Negroni?
Yes. Gin, Campari and sweet vermouth in equal parts are the classic Negroni combination.
Does Campari get its red colour from lice?
Cochineal, an insect-derived red colourant, was used in some historical Campari formulations. Formulations can vary by market and over time, so check the current bottle or manufacturer information for the product you have.
Should I add ice?
The supplied method does not mention ice. You can serve it over ice if you prefer it chilled, but that is an optional serving choice.
Can I make the drink less bitter?
You can reduce the overall pour while keeping the three ingredients in equal proportions. For a different flavour balance, a splash of soda is another optional variation.
What can I use instead of gin?
Bourbon is a common alternative, giving the drink a rounder, sweeter character. The result is a variation rather than the classic gin-based Negroni.
Cook it from the original
This recipe comes from cocktailforum.de. Their page has the author’s own photos, notes and tips — the best place to cook it from.
Open the recipe on cocktailforum.de