A Campari and orange juice cocktail brings a bright pop of color and flavor to any drink menu. The mix of bitter Campari with sweet citrus creates a perfect balance that many people enjoy.
This simple two-ingredient cocktail needs just 2 ounces of Campari and 4 ounces of fresh orange juice, mixed together over ice in a tall glass. The drink works well for brunch or as an afternoon refresher.
The mix started in Italy during the 1860s and grew into a popular choice at bars across the world. Its eye-catching red shade and smooth taste made it a hit with both new and experienced cocktail fans.
Equipment
- Highball glass
- Ice tongs
- Measuring jigger (1-2 oz)
- Long spoon for stirring.
- Citrus juicer (if using fresh oranges)
Ingredients
- 2 oz 60ml Campari
- 4 oz 120ml orange juice
- Ice cubes
- Orange slice for garnish
- Fresh-squeezed orange juice works best but store-bought juice is fine too. The standard ratio is 1 part Campari to 2 parts orange juice.
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes
- Pour 2 oz of Campari over the ice
- Add 4 oz of orange juice
- Stir gently with a long spoon for 10-15 seconds
- Garnish with an orange slice
- The drink should have a bright red-orange color when mixed properly.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
The Campari and orange juice cocktail offers a bright red-orange color that catches the eye. The aroma blends sweet citrus notes with Campari’s distinctive herbal scent.
Each sip starts with the fresh sweetness of orange juice, followed by Campari’s complex bitter taste. The mix creates a balanced drink that’s both refreshing and sophisticated.
The texture is smooth and light. Ice helps create the perfect chill and slight dilution needed to blend the flavors together.
Key flavor notes:
- Sweet orange: Natural citrus sweetness
- Bitter herbs: Classic Campari botanicals
- Light spice: Gentle warming sensation
- Zesty finish: Clean, crisp aftertaste
The drink changes subtly as the ice melts. The initial boldness softens over time, making it perfect for slow sipping.
Temperature plays a big role in the taste. The colder the drink, the more refreshing it becomes. As it warms, the bitter notes from the Campari become more noticeable.
Substitute
Not everyone has Campari on hand. Aperol makes the closest match to Campari. It offers a similar bitter orange taste but with less intensity and alcohol content.
Select gin offers another option. Choose a gin with strong orange and herbal notes. Mix it with orange juice in the same proportions as Campari.
Other substitutes include:
- Cynar (artichoke-based bitter)
- Amaro Montenegro
- Select Aperitivo
- Cappelletti Aperitivo
Non-alcoholic versions work too. Mix orange juice with a few drops of non-alcoholic bitters. Add a splash of sparkling water for texture.
The color may differ from the classic bright red Campari and orange juice mix. The taste will also vary based on the chosen substitute.
