
Why I love Campari tonic
After I tried my first negroni a few years ago, I found myself craving that classic bitter flavor, and I’ve been experimenting with Campari ever since. From the bicicletta cocktail to the tiki-inspired jungle bird cocktail, I haven’t been disappointed.
But once in a while, I prefer something super light, and a Campari tonic is just that. It’s light on alcohol, but big on flavor – making it the perfect sipping cocktail. Plus, it’s simple and easy to make, too.

Here’s what you’ll need to make it
Equipment:



Ingredients:
- Campari
- Tonic water

How to make Campari tonic
Fill a glass with ice. You can use any glass you prefer, but I typically use a highball glass. Just make sure it’s large enough to get some liquid in there. Otherwise there won’t be room for the tonic.
Measure the Campari. Pour 1 1/2 ounces – 2 ounces of Campari into the prepared glasses.
Side note: Do you measure your drinks? I never used to but lately I like knowing how much I’m adding, and it’s a great way to prevent over serving.
Top with tonic. Finish your drink by adding tonic to the glass and gently stir to combine. There’s no need to shake this cocktail. Garnish with rosemary and an orange twist before serving.
Mix it up: Try making your Campari tonic a press. Tone down the flavor of the tonic by mixing half tonic, half club soda. You’ll taste the flavors of the bitter liqueur more, and you’ll decrease the sugar in your cocktail.

FAQs and tips for making Campari tonic
What pairs well with Campari?
Campari pairs well with plain sodas and tonics, as well as citrus juices. You can even use Campari to cook with!
How long does Campari last?
It will really depend on how you are storing your bottle. It should be kept in the fridge to help preserve its full flavor, but it should last you a good 12 months.
Is Campari made from beetles?
No it is not. Though Campari did for decades use a red dye made from an insect called cochineal, this liqueur currently gets its red color from an artificial dye.

More Campari cocktails to try
- Pineapple Campari cocktail
- Venetian blush – Campari and orange cocktail
- Bubbly blood orange Campari cocktail
Tonic based cocktails that are delicious


Ingredients
- 1 ½ – 2 ounces campari
- 2 ounce tonic water
- Lime wedge
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Pour Campari over ice and top with tonic water and a splash of lime juice, gently stirring to combine.
- Garnish with a rosemary sprig and a twist of orange.
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