Campari Soda

The Campari Soda is the quintessential Italian aperitivo: vibrant, refreshing, and effortlessly stylish. With its dazzling ruby hue and bittersweet complexity, it’s the perfect way to unwind before dinner or to sip slowly on a warm evening. Simple yet sophisticated, this cocktail is all about letting the bold flavor of Campari shine, lifted by bubbly soda water and finished with a slice of orange.

3 minutesEasy1 serving
Campari Soda
Featured
Ingredients
1 serving
  • Campari
    60 ml (2 oz)
    Chilled is best
  • Soda water
    90 ml (3 oz)
    Preferably chilled and freshly opened for optimal bubbles
  • Ice
    30 ml (1 oz)
    Enough to fill the glass
Tools Needed
  • Rocks glass (or highball glass)
  • Bar spoon (optional, for stirring)
  • Jigger
Instructions
  1. Fill a rocks glass with plenty of fresh ice.

  2. Pour 2 oz of chilled Campari over the ice.

  3. Top up with 3 oz of chilled soda water.

  4. Give it a gentle stir with a bar spoon to mix.

  5. Garnish with a fresh orange slice for a burst of citrus aroma.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail
  • Effortlessly simple—just two ingredients!
  • Beautifully balances bitter and sweet flavors.
  • Low in alcohol, making it perfect for leisurely sipping.
  • Iconic Italian style and vibrant color.
  • Refreshing and palate-cleansing—a true aperitivo classic.
History & Origin

The Campari Soda has its roots in early 20th-century Italy, where the tradition of the aperitivo—an appetite-stimulating pre-dinner drink—was born. Campari itself was invented in 1860 by Gaspare Campari in Milan and quickly became a staple at fashionable cafés. In 1932, Campari Soda made history as one of the first pre-mixed drinks ever bottled, thanks to the iconic conical bottle designed by Futurist artist Fortunato Depero. Today, the Campari Soda remains a symbol of Italian elegance and the laid-back joy of socializing.

Garnish

A fresh orange slice. It adds a bright, aromatic citrus note that complements Campari’s signature bitterness while making the drink visually stunning.

Nutrition Info

Approx. 120 calories per serving. Contains about 0g fat, 8g carbohydrates (mostly from Campari), and minimal protein. Campari is 24% ABV, so this cocktail is relatively low in alcohol.

Frequently Asked Questions
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