As a bartender, I have seen many trends come and go in the world of mixology. But one thing that has remained a constant favorite among connoisseurs is whiskey.
The rich, smoky flavor of this spirit is unparalleled, and it has become a staple in many classic cocktails. But what happens when you add Campari to the mix?
For those unfamiliar with Campari, it is a bitter Italian aperitif that has been around since the 1860s. It is made from a secret blend of herbs and spices, giving it a unique flavor that can be an acquired taste for some.
However, when combined with whiskey, the bitterness is balanced out, resulting in a surprisingly delicious cocktail.
Over the years, I have experimented with many Campari whiskey cocktail recipes, and I have narrowed down my favorites to a select few. These cocktails are perfect for any occasion, whether you're looking for a refreshing summer drink or a cozy winter nightcap.
So, if you're a whiskey lover looking to mix things up, keep reading to discover the best Campari whiskey cocktail recipes that will impress even the most discerning palates.
1. Old Pal Cocktail
The Old Pal Cocktail is a classic three-ingredient drink that's perfect for those who love dry cocktails like Negroni or Manhattan. It's a complex and spirit-forward cocktail that pairs bitter Campari with dry vermouth and fiery rye whiskey. This sleek and sippable red drink is dry, bitter, and spicy all at once.
The Old Pal is a variation of Boulevardier and Negroni, but with dry vermouth and whiskey instead of sweet vermouth and gin. It's a sophisticated and complex cocktail that's great for sipping. If you're a fan of Campari, you'll love the Old Pal's distinctive bitter, fruity, and spicy flavor. It's a must-try for any whiskey cocktail lover looking for something unique and exciting.
2. Boulevardier Cocktail
The Boulevardier Cocktail is a classic bourbon cocktail that is sure to impress any whiskey lover. Made with just three ingredients – bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari – this cocktail is rich, earthy, and perfect for sipping and savoring. It's a riff on the classic Negroni, with bourbon taking the place of gin, and is stirred, not shaken, for a perfectly chilled and diluted drink.
The deep red-brown color of the cocktail is beautiful, and the addition of an orange peel twist adds a touch of citrus to the rich flavor. If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make Campari whiskey cocktail, the Boulevardier is a must-try.
3. Bitter Eastern Sour Cocktail
The Bitter Eastern Sour Cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, with a tangy and bitter edge that makes it perfect for cooler weather. This cocktail features a pop of red from the Campari, which sets it apart visually from its parent drink, the Eastern Sour.
The combination of citrus, sweet almond, and bourbon makes it a perfect drink for fall, and the addition of Campari gives it a unique flavor that is sure to please. If you're looking for a warming cocktail to enjoy during the cooler months, the Bitter Eastern Sour Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
4. Blood Orange Boulevardier Cocktail
The Blood Orange Boulevardier Cocktail is a sophisticated twist on the classic Campari cocktail that adds a splash of sweet-tart blood orange juice to the mix. This cocktail is perfect for cooler days and is similar in composition to a Negroni. The combination of bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari creates a balanced and refreshing flavor with lightly-sweet, bitter, and herbal notes.
The addition of blood orange juice adds another layer of complexity to the cocktail, making it a perfect sipper in front of a warm fire. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful Campari Whiskey Cocktail, the Blood Orange Boulevardier is definitely worth trying.
5. Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is a twist on the Negroni, with whiskey replacing gin as the base spirit. It's a simple cocktail made with just three ingredients: whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari.
The result is a more robust and complex drink that still retains the herbal notes of the original cocktail. It's a must-try for anyone who loves the bold and bitter flavors of Campari.
6. The Boulevardier Cocktail
The Boulevardier Cocktail is a classic whiskey cocktail that has stood the test of time. Created during the golden age of cocktails, this drink is a twist on the Negroni, swapping out gin for bourbon or rye whiskey. The combination of whiskey and bittersweet/citrus-y Campari is especially lovely in the fall and winter months, but this is a cocktail to enjoy year-round.
The Boulevardier Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a sophisticated and complex cocktail that delivers on taste and style. So, whether you're a seasoned whiskey drinker or just looking to try something new, the Boulevardier Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
7. Stockyard Pony Cocktail
The Stockyard Pony Cocktail is a delightful bourbon-based cocktail that combines the richness of bourbon with the sweetness of Campari and tanginess of lemon juice. This cocktail has a deep orange color and a strong, warming taste that is balanced by the sweet citrus flavors. The cocktail is garnished with a flamed orange peel that adds a touch of drama to the drink.
The Stockyard Pony Cocktail is a perfect cocktail for a special occasion or a weekend get-together with friends. If you are looking for a delicious and refreshing cocktail that combines the best of bourbon and Campari, then the Stockyard Pony Cocktail is the perfect choice for you.
8. Whiskey Cherry Negroni
The Whiskey Cherry Negroni is a unique twist on the classic Negroni cocktail. This Harry Potter-inspired cocktail features whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari, with a cherry liqueur or juice for added sweetness. The cream rim adds a creamy cherry flavor that makes the drink extra special and unique.
This cocktail is perfect for those who love a classic Negroni but want to try something new and exciting. The Whiskey Cherry Negroni is a must-try for any Campari whiskey cocktail lover looking to expand their horizons.
9. The Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is a whiskey-based cocktail that's a twist on the classic Negroni. It's a perfect balance of sweet and bitter, thanks to the combination of Campari and sweet vermouth.
The whiskey gives the cocktail a complex and dark flavor, with notes of wood and smoke. It's a sophisticated and elegant cocktail that's perfect for those who enjoy a strong and complex drink.
10. Classic Negroni
The Classic Negroni is a timeless cocktail that has been enjoyed for decades. Made with equal parts of gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, this cocktail is a perfect balance of herbal and bittersweet flavors.
The botanical notes of the gin and the bitterness of the Campari are perfectly complemented by the sweet vermouth, resulting in a complex and refreshing drink. The Classic Negroni is a must-try for anyone who loves a well-crafted cocktail.
