Campari Americano Cocktail

Pro tips

• Use fresh ice and chill your glass first to keep the drink cold without over-dilution from melting ice.
• Add the club soda last and stir gently to preserve carbonation.
• Build the drink directly in the serving glass rather than mixing in a separate vessel — it's quicker and keeps it colder.
• Use a 1:1 ratio of Campari to sweet vermouth; this balance is essential to the drink's signature bitter-sweet profile.

Substitutions

• Sweet vermouth → dry vermouth (creates a drier, less sweet aperitif)
• Club soda → tonic water (adds quinine bitterness; changes the drink character)
• Campari → Aperol (lighter color and flavor, slightly less bitter)

What's the difference between Campari Americano and Negroni?

Campari Americano uses sweet vermouth and club soda for a lighter, more refreshing drink. Negroni swaps the soda for gin and uses equal parts spirit, making it stronger and more spirit-forward.

Can I make this ahead of time?

No. Build this drink fresh in the glass over ice just before serving, as the carbonation will dissipate if made in advance.

What glassware should I use?

Serve in a rocks glass or tumbler over ice. An old fashioned glass is traditional.

What type of sweet vermouth works best?

Use a quality Italian sweet vermouth like Carpano Antica Formula, Noilly Prat Rouge, or Martini Rosso for balanced flavor.

Is an orange garnish necessary?

An orange twist or slice is traditional and adds aromatics, but optional if unavailable.