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Out of Campari, one case

Amaro Nonino substitute for Campari

The short answerCampari

Amaro Nonino can substitute for Campari in a 1:1 ratio, but it's sweeter and less bitter. It works best in cocktails where you want more herbal complexity and less bitterness. Consider adding a dash of Angostura bitters to increase bitterness if needed.

One casethe full Amaro Nonino card

The longer answer

About this case

While Amaro Nonino and Campari are both Italian liqueurs, they have distinct flavor profiles that make them suitable for different applications. However, Amaro Nonino can work as a substitute for Campari in certain cocktails, though adjustments may be needed to achieve the desired balance.

How it behaves in this recipe

In this recipeCampari

Amaro Nonino and Campari are both Italian liqueurs but serve different purposes in cocktails. While Amaro Nonino can substitute for Campari, it will significantly change the flavor profile of the drink. The key is understanding that Amaro Nonino is sweeter and more herbal, while Campari is more bitter and citrus-forward. Adjustments may be needed to achieve the desired balance.

Notes on Campari

Flavor, side by side6 rows
Flavor, side by side
PropertyAmaro NoninoCampari
FlavorBittersweet, herbal, complex, warm spicesBitter-sweet, herbal, citrus-forward
BitternessMediumHigh
SweetnessHighMedium
Alcohol content35% ABV20.5-28% ABV
ColorRich amber-brownRed-orange
BaseHerbs, roots, spicesHerbs, fruits, spices
How to make the swap3 rows
How to make the swap
RatioDescriptionBest forNotes
Same amountDirect substitution works in most casesCocktails where you want more sweetness and herbal complexityAmaro Nonino will make cocktails sweeter and less bitter
Same amount + Angostura bittersAdd 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters to increase bitternessCocktails where you need more bitternessBitters help balance the sweetness of Amaro Nonino
¾ × the amountReduce Amaro Nonino to ¾ oz for every 1 oz CampariCocktails where you want less sweetnessReducing the amount helps balance the sweetness
Cocktail by cocktail5 cases
  • NegroniSame amount + Angostura bittersAmaro Nonino makes a sweeter, more herbal Negroni. Add bitters to increase bitterness.More complex, sweeter, less bitter than traditional Negroni
  • AmericanoSame amountWorks well as Amaro Nonino's sweetness complements the soda water.Sweeter, more herbal, less bitter than traditional Americano
  • BoulevardierSame amountAmaro Nonino's herbal complexity works well with whiskey.More complex, sweeter, less bitter than traditional Boulevardier
  • Campari spritzSame amountCreates a more herbal, less bitter spritz.More herbal complexity, less bitter, sweeter finish
  • Campari sourSame amountAmaro Nonino's sweetness works well in sour cocktails.More herbal, sweeter, less bitter than traditional sour
When it works5 notes
  1. When you want more herbal complexity in cocktails
  2. When you prefer sweeter, less bitter drinks
  3. When you want to experiment with different flavor profiles
  4. When Campari is not available but Amaro Nonino is
  5. When you want a more premium, complex flavor
When it does not5 notes
  1. When you need the specific bitterness of Campari
  2. In cocktails where color is important (Amaro Nonino is brown, not red)
  3. When you want the traditional Campari flavor profile
  4. In cocktails that rely on Campari's specific herbal notes
  5. When you want a lighter, more refreshing drink
Adjustments5 notes
  1. Add Angostura bitters to increase bitterness
  2. Reduce the amount of Amaro Nonino to decrease sweetness
  3. Increase citrus juice to balance the sweetness
  4. Use less simple syrup or sweetener in the cocktail
  5. Consider adding a splash of soda water to lighten the drink
Tasting notes
Original
Bitter-sweet, herbal, citrus-forward, refreshing
With Amaro Nonino
More herbal, sweeter, less bitter, more complex
With adjustments
Better balanced, more bitterness, still sweeter than original

Questions

5 questions

Can I use Amaro Nonino instead of Campari?

Yes, Amaro Nonino can substitute for Campari in a 1:1 ratio, but it will make cocktails sweeter and less bitter. It works best when you want more herbal complexity and don't mind the increased sweetness.

How do I make Amaro Nonino taste more like Campari?

Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters to increase bitterness, or reduce the amount of Amaro Nonino to 0.75 oz for every 1 oz Campari. You can also increase citrus juice to balance the sweetness.

What cocktails work best with Amaro Nonino instead of Campari?

Cocktails that work well include the Boulevardier (whiskey-based), Americano (with soda water), and Campari Sour. The Negroni can work but may need bitters to balance the sweetness.

Will the color be different with Amaro Nonino?

Yes, Amaro Nonino is amber-brown while Campari is red-orange. This affects the visual appearance of cocktails, especially in drinks like the Negroni where color is part of the appeal.

Is Amaro Nonino more expensive than Campari?

Yes, Amaro Nonino is generally more expensive than Campari as it's a premium liqueur. Consider this when deciding whether to use it as a substitute, especially in large quantities.

All 6 Amaro Nonino substitutes All ingredients