Garibaldi

The Garibaldi is an iconic Italian drink, named after the revered Italian general Giuseppe Garibaldi. With just two main ingredients – Campari and fresh orange juice – the Garibaldi offers a refreshing and citrusy experience that is as timeless as it is delicious.

The Garibaldi is a burst of sunshine in a glass. The bold bitterness of Campari is mellowed by the natural sweetness of orange juice. Its vivid orange hue, reminiscent of a Tuscan sunset, adds to the allure, making it as visually enticing as it is flavorful.

What sets the Garibaldi apart is its rich history and cultural significance. Named in honor of Giuseppe Garibaldi, a key figure in Italy’s unification, this cocktail carries a legacy that spans centuries. Its vibrant color, mirroring Garibaldi’s iconic hair, pays homage to the man who inspired it, adding a touch of historical charm to every glass.

History

The Garibaldi cocktail is named after Giuseppe Garibaldi, an Italian revolutionary who played a significant role in the unification of Italy in the 19th century. Garibaldi was a military leader who fought for the liberation of Italy from foreign rule, and he is considered a national hero in Italy.

The cocktail is said to have originated in the Piedmont region of Italy, where Garibaldi was born. It is a simple cocktail made with just two ingredients: Campari and fresh orange juice. The drink is also sometimes referred to as the Campari Orange.

The Garibaldi cocktail gained popularity in Italy in the 1970s and has since become a classic Italian cocktail. It is a refreshing drink that is often served as an aperitif before a meal, and it is enjoyed by many people around the world.

In addition to being named after Garibaldi, the cocktail is also associated with the Red Shirts, a group of Italian revolutionaries who fought alongside Garibaldi during the unification of Italy. The Red Shirts wore distinctive red shirts, which is said to be the inspiration for the bright red color of Campari, one of the main ingredients in the Garibaldi cocktail.

How to Make It

Variations

There are many variations of the Garibaldi cocktail that you can try to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few popular variations:

Sparkling Garibaldi

Add a fizzy twist to your Garibaldi cocktail by topping it off with a splash of sparkling water or club soda. This not only lightens the drink but also adds a refreshing effervescence.

Garibaldi Spritz

For a lighter version, turn your Garibaldi into a spritz by using Prosecco or sparkling wine instead of orange juice. This variation is perfect for those who prefer a less sweet and more bubbly drink.

Negroni 

For a stronger and more bitter cocktail, replace the orange juice with gin and vermouth to make a Negroni.

Blood Orange Garibaldi

For a twist on the classic Garibaldi, use blood orange juice instead of regular orange juice. This variation adds a deeper, richer flavor to the drink and is perfect for those who prefer a more intense citrus taste.

Frozen Garibaldi

For a refreshing and icy version, blend the orange juice and Campari with ice to make a frozen Garibaldi. This variation is perfect for hot summer days and adds a slushy texture to the drink.

Garibaldi Margarita

For a fusion of Italian and Mexican flavors, combine the Garibaldi with tequila and lime juice to make a Garibaldi Margarita. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a tangy and zesty drink.