Campari and soda is a light, refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for warm afternoons or as a laid-back aperitif before dinner. Made with just Campari and soda water, it’s a breeze to mix up and offers that perfect balance of bitter and bubbly. If you’re looking for something simple and low in alcohol, this one’s a great option.
The bold, slightly bitter flavor of Campari is what gives this drink its unique charm, especially when it’s paired with savory snacks or light bites. It’s a great alternative to heavier cocktails and still feels special without being overly boozy. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or just sipping it solo, a Campari soda always feels effortlessly elegant.
What Is Campari?
Campari is a bold, bitter liqueur that’s been around since the 1860s. It was created by Gaspare Campari, and the exact recipe is still a well-kept secret.
It’s made by infusing alcohol with a mix of bitter herbs, spices, and fruit, which gives it that signature bitter-sweet flavor and vibrant red color. You’ll find it in classic cocktails like the Negroni, Americano, and the Campari Spritz—but it’s also great served on its own as a pre-dinner sipper.
Ingredient Notes
Much like the Garibaldi cocktail, this is an easy two ingredient Italian cocktail that features the bitter flavor of Campari.
- Campari - Campari is an Italian liqueur that is made from a blend of herbs, spices, and fruits, and has a distinctive bitter flavor. It is the key ingredient in a Campari Soda, and gives the cocktail its unique taste and bright red color.
- Soda Water - Soda water, also known as club soda or seltzer, is carbonated water that is commonly used as a mixer in cocktails. It adds a refreshing and effervescent element to the drink and helps to balance out the bitterness of the Campari.
See the recipe card at the bottom of the post for ingredients with measurements.
Recipe Variations
Put your own spin on this refreshing cocktail:
- Grapefruit Soda: Swap out the plain soda water for grapefruit soda to enhance the bitter flavor of the Campari and add a touch of sweetness.
- Campari Tonic: Instead of soda water, use tonic water for a slightly bitter and effervescent twist.
- Campari Spritz: Add a splash of Prosecco or other sparkling wine to your Campari Soda for a light and refreshing spritz.
- Raspberry or Blackberry Syrup: Add a splash of raspberry or blackberry syrup to your Campari Soda for a sweet and fruity twist.
How to make a Campari Soda
This easy cocktail recipe is made right in the serving glass - no bar equipment required. The ratio for this drink is one part Campari to three parts soda water, so it is easy to multiply depending on your needed number of servings.
- STEP 1: Fill a highball glass with ice.
- STEP 2: Pour the Campari over the ice.
- STEP 3: Add the soda water and stir gently to combine.
- STEP 4: Add a slice of orange or lemon as a garnish. Add a sprig of fresh basil for a pop of color. Serve and enjoy!
Garnish Suggestions
- Orange or lemon twist
- Lemon or orange slices
- Fresh berries, such as raspberries or blackberries
- Rosemary or thyme sprig
- Cucumber slice
- Fresh basil
- Edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies
Recipe FAQs
Yes, there is alcohol in a Campari Soda. Campari is a liqueur that has an alcohol content of 20.5%, so when mixed with soda water, it creates a cocktail with a low alcohol content.
Italians have multiple ways of enjoying Campari. Some of the most popular Italian Campari drinks include a Campari and Soda, Campari and Orange Juice, Campari Spritz and a Negroni.
More Campari cocktails to try:
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Recipe
Campari and Soda
Ingredients
- 1 ½ ounces Campari
- 4 ½ ounces Soda Water
- Ice Cubes
- Lemon Slices for garnish
- Fresh Basil for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a serving glass with ice.Ice Cubes
- Add camapri and top with soda water. Give a gentle stir to chill the drink.1 ½ ounces Campari, 4 ½ ounces Soda Water
- Garnish with a slice of lemon and a sprig of fresh basil.Lemon Slices, Fresh Basil
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