Out of campari?

Campari substitutes

Campari is Italian bitter liqueur with a distinctive red color and complex bitter-sweet flavor, essential in classic cocktails.

Use this

Aperol

Use the same amount as the campari you are replacing

Different tasteBest for cocktails

The best substitutes for Campari are Aperol (1:1 ratio), Cynar (1:1 ratio), Aperol + Angostura bitters (1:1 ratio), and homemade bitter liqueur (1:1 ratio). Choose based on availability and desired bitterness level.

At a glance

Every campari substitute on one screen. Tap a name for detail.

Campari substitutes compared
#	Substitute	Instead of campari, use	Result
1	Aperol	Same amount	Different taste
2	Cynar	Same amount	Different taste
3	Aperol + Angostura Bitters	Same amount	Close match
4	Homemade Bitter Liqueur	Same amount	Different taste
5	Punt e Mes	Same amount	Different taste
6	Non-Alcoholic Bitter Syrup	Same amount	Taste and texture differ

Every campari substitute

Ranked, with the exact amount and what changes

1. Aperol
Different taste
Use the same amount
Italian bitter liqueur with similar flavor profile but less bitter than Campari
What changes
Best for
cocktails, spritz drinks, aperitifs, mixed drinks
Less bitter, sweeter, similar color and flavor profile, more approachable
2. Cynar
Different taste
Use the same amount
Italian artichoke-based bitter liqueur with complex herbal flavors
What changes
Best for
cocktails, aperitifs, mixed drinks
Different base flavor (artichoke), similar bitterness level, complex herbal notes
3. Aperol + Angostura Bitters
Close match
Use the same amount
Combination of Aperol with Angostura bitters to increase bitterness
What changes
Best for
cocktails, mixed drinks
Use 3 parts Aperol to 1 part Angostura bitters, adjust to taste
4. Homemade Bitter Liqueur
Different taste
Use the same amount
DIY version made with vodka, bittering agents, and sweeteners
What changes
Best for
cocktails, mixed drinks
Requires time to develop, customizable bitterness level, cost-effective
5. Punt e Mes
Different taste
Use the same amount
Italian vermouth with bitter and sweet notes, similar complexity to Campari
What changes
Best for
cocktails, aperitifs, mixed drinks
Different base (vermouth), similar bitterness, complex flavor profile
6. Non-Alcoholic Bitter Syrup
Taste and texture differ
Use the same amount
Alcohol-free alternative made with bittering agents and sweeteners
What changes
Best for
mocktails, non-alcoholic drinks
No alcohol, similar bitterness, may need adjustment for sweetness

Tips for substituting campari

Campari adds a distinctive bitter-sweet flavor to cocktails and aperitifs
Use in small amounts as it has a strong, concentrated flavor
Perfect for classic cocktails like Negroni, Americano, and Campari Spritz
Campari pairs well with gin, vodka, and sparkling wine
Store in a cool, dark place and it will keep indefinitely
The red color comes from natural coloring agents, not artificial dyes
Campari can be used in both sweet and savory applications
For non-alcoholic versions, use bitter syrups or extracts

Questions about campari substitutes

Can I use Aperol instead of Campari?

Yes, Aperol can be used as a substitute for Campari, but it's less bitter and sweeter. It works well in cocktails but will have a different flavor profile. Use in a 1:1 ratio and adjust other ingredients if needed.

What's the difference between Campari and Aperol?

Campari is more bitter and has a higher alcohol content (20.5-28% ABV) compared to Aperol (11% ABV). Aperol is sweeter and more approachable, while Campari has a more intense, complex bitter flavor.

Can I make a non-alcoholic substitute for Campari?

For non-alcoholic cocktails, use bitter syrups or extracts mixed with simple syrup. You can also use tonic water with a splash of grenadine and a few drops of Angostura bitters for a similar bitter-sweet profile.

Is Campari the same as Cynar?

No, while both are Italian bitter liqueurs, Campari is made with herbs and fruits, while Cynar is made with artichoke and other herbs. They have different flavor profiles but similar bitterness levels.

How long does Campari last?

Campari has an indefinite shelf life when stored properly in a cool, dark place. The high alcohol content acts as a preservative, so it won't spoil, though the flavor may change slightly over many years.

What cocktails can I make with Campari?

Campari is essential in classic cocktails like the Negroni (gin, Campari, sweet vermouth), Americano (Campari, sweet vermouth, soda water), and Campari Spritz (Campari, prosecco, soda water). It also works well in various mixed drinks and aperitifs.

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At a glance

Every campari substitute

1. Aperol

2. Cynar

3. Aperol + Angostura Bitters

4. Homemade Bitter Liqueur

5. Punt e Mes

6. Non-Alcoholic Bitter Syrup