Campari Milano Bitter

Campari is one of the world’s most legendary bitter aperitifs — iconic, vibrant, and unmistakably Italian. Invented in 1860 in Milan by Gaspare Campari, this crimson-red bitter liqueur has defined the aperitivo tradition for over 160 years.

Built on bitter orange, herbal spice, and earthy root botanicals, Campari delivers bold, refreshing bitterness balanced by subtle sweetness and citrus brightness. It is the backbone of some of the greatest cocktails ever created — especially the Negroni, Americano, and Boulevardier — while also shining in simple long drinks like Campari & Soda or Campari & Orange.

Bold, stylish and instantly recognisable, Campari remains a global symbol of Italian cocktail culture and modern mixology.

Campari’s story begins in Milan in 1860, when Gaspare Campari developed his secret bitter liqueur recipe — a formula still closely guarded today. The opening of the Camparino in Galleria bar soon turned Campari into a must-have aperitivo, spreading the Milanese habit of pre-dinner bitter drinks and sociable sipping.

The iconic red colour, distinctive bottle, and influence in the Golden Age of cocktails helped cement Campari’s status as a cultural icon. Now part of Gruppo Campari, the brand remains at the heart of Italian drinking identity and cocktail history.

Style: Italian Bitter / Aperitivo Liqueur (Amaro-Bitter)
Region: Milan, Italy
Producer: Gruppo Campari
Distillation / Production: Neutral spirit infused with a proprietary blend of herbs, roots, citrus peels, spices and aromatic botanicals; coloured with natural carmine for its iconic ruby-red hue
Base Alcohol: Neutral grain spirit
Appearance: Deep crimson-red
ABV: 25 % (varies 24–28% depending on market)