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.

Campari & Orange Juice Cocktail Recipe

This classic cocktail combines the bitter notes of Campari with sweet orange juice for a refreshing drink. The recipe needs just two main ingredients and takes minutes to make.

John

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size

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

The drink tastes best when served right away while the ice is fresh.

Store-bought orange juice can make the drink too sweet. Using fresh juice gives better control over sweetness.

This recipe makes one serving. Double or triple the amounts to make multiple drinks.

Keep Campari stored in a cool, dark place. It doesn’t need refrigeration and will stay good for years.

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.

Campari & Orange Juice Cocktail Recipe