Campari

Definition:

Campari is Italy’s crimson punch of bitter glory. It’s that iconic red liqueur that looks like sweet candy but tastes like your ex’s text messages—bitter, complicated, and yet somehow irresistible.

Why it Matters:

Campari is the backbone of some of the most legendary cocktails on the planet: Negroni, Americano, Boulevardier, just to name a few. Without it, we’d all be stuck drinking overly sweet concoctions that lack the balance and intrigue that only bitterness can bring. Campari’s distinct profile slices through sugar and citrus like a sharp Italian suit, giving cocktails depth, structure, and a reason for bartenders to look smug while pouring it.

In short: Campari isn’t just a liqueur - it’s a rite of passage. If you can handle its bitter bite, you’ve officially leveled up from “I drink vodka-cran” to “I order Negronis because I have taste.”