Campari vs Aperol

Campari and Aperol are two classic Italian aperitifs that are beloved by mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts around the world.

While both are bitter liqueurs that are often used in cocktails, there are some key differences between the two. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Campari vs Aperol and explore the differences between these two classic Italian aperitifs.

What is Campari?

Campari is a bitter liqueur that is made from a blend of herbs and spices, including bitter orange, rhubarb, and ginseng. It is known for its bright red color and its bitter, complex flavor.

Campari is often used in cocktails, such as the Negroni and the Americano. It can also be enjoyed on its own, over ice, or with a splash of soda water.

What is Aperol?

Aperol is a bitter liqueur that is made from a blend of herbs and spices, including bitter orange, gentian, and rhubarb. It is known for its bright orange color and its sweet, citrusy flavor.

Aperol is often used in cocktails, such as the Aperol Spritz and the Aperol Sour. It can also be enjoyed on its own, over ice, or with a splash of soda water.

Flavor Profile

One of the biggest differences between Campari and Aperol is their flavor profile.

Campari is known for its bitter, complex flavor, with notes of bitter orange, rhubarb, and ginseng. It has a bold, intense taste that is often described as “herbal” or “medicinal.”

Aperol is known for its sweet, citrusy flavor, with notes of bitter orange, gentian, and rhubarb. It has a lighter, more refreshing taste that is often described as “fruity” or “floral.”

Color

Another difference between Campari and Aperol is their color.

Campari is known for its bright red color, which is often used in cocktails to add a pop of color and a bold, intense flavor.

Aperol is known for its bright orange color, which is often used in cocktails to add a refreshing, citrusy flavor and a light, summery feel.

Alcohol Content

Another difference between Campari and Aperol is their alcohol content.

Campari has a higher alcohol content than Aperol, with an ABV (alcohol by volume) of 24%. This makes it a stronger, more potent liqueur that is often used in cocktails to add a bold, intense flavor.

Aperol has a lower alcohol content than Campari, with an ABV of 11%. This makes it a lighter, more refreshing liqueur that is often used in cocktails to add a sweet, citrusy flavor and a light, summery feel.

Which is Better?

When it comes to deciding between Campari and Aperol, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the occasion.

If you’re looking for a bold, intense liqueur to add to your cocktails, then Campari may be the better choice. Its bitter, complex flavor and bright red color make it a great option for those who enjoy bold, intense cocktails.

However, if you’re looking for a lighter, more refreshing liqueur to add to your cocktails, then Aperol may be the way to go. Its sweet, citrusy flavor and bright orange color make it a great option for those who want to enjoy a quality cocktail with a light, summery feel.