Campari Tonic

The Campari Tonic is simple, bold, and refreshingly bitter. With just two main ingredients Campari and tonic water it’s a no-fuss cocktail that delivers a crisp, clean taste with a slightly bitter edge. The tonic lightens up the Campari, making it easy to enjoy even if you’re not usually into bitter drinks. A slice of orange or lime adds a bright pop of citrus that ties it all together. If you’re into dry, refreshing drinks, the Campari Tonic is a solid pick.

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Tasting Notes

The Campari Tonic is light, crisp, and gently bitter with a touch of citrus. Campari gives the drink its bold red color and a distinct bitter-orange flavor. A splash of orange juice softens the bitterness with a hint of sweetness, while tonic water adds bubbles and a slightly dry finish. The balance of bitter, sweet, and fizz makes it easy to sip, especially when served cold over ice. The orange peel garnish boosts the aroma and ties the whole drink together. It’s simple but not boring a refreshing option when you want something clean with a little bite.

Equipment and Glassware

You don’t need much for this one. A jigger helps measure the Campari and orange juice, and a bar spoon is useful for a quick stir. No shaker or strainer needed just build it right in the glass. A rocks or highball glass works well, depending on how much ice you like. A peeler or small knife helps prep the orange peel garnish. Clear glassware shows off the bright red color, which is part of the drink’s appeal. Keep your tonic water chilled ahead of time to get the most out of the bubbles.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Campari
• 0.5 oz orange juice
• 3 oz tonic water
• Orange peel, for garnish

Instructions

• Fill a glass with ice.
• Add Campari and orange juice.
• Top with tonic water.
• Stir gently to mix.
• Garnish with a twist of orange peel.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh orange juice for better flavor and less sugar.
• Chill your tonic water before pouring to keep the fizz strong.
• Stir gently so you don’t flatten the tonic.
• A large ice cube melts slower and keeps the drink colder longer.
• Twist the orange peel over the drink for extra aroma.
• Try flavored tonic (like blood orange or citrus) for a twist.
• Adjust the ratio depending on how strong or light you want it.
• Use a clear glass to show off the drink’s bold color.

When to Serve

The Campari Tonic is perfect for early evenings, warm afternoons, or any time you want something refreshing that isn’t too sweet. It’s a solid choice for casual get-togethers, pre-dinner drinks, or backyard hangs. The bitterness makes it more interesting than your average spritz, but it’s still easy enough for people who don’t usually go for bitter drinks. It’s quick to make, easy to scale for a group, and doesn’t require any prep or fancy tools—just pour and serve.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Campari:

• Campari (the original and best choice—no substitute recommended)

Tonic Water:

• Fever-Tree Premium Tonic (crisp and well-balanced)
• Q Tonic (less sweet, cleaner finish)
• Schweppes Tonic (easy to find and dependable)
• Fentimans Tonic Water (for a more botanical twist)

Similar Cocktails

• Frozen Negroni
• Ruby Red Spritz
• Tangerine Spritz
• Campari Sour
• The Amalfi Buzz