Campari substitutes
Campari substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Aperol
Same amount as the Campari
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.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- cocktails
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of Campari | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aperolcocktails | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Cynarcocktails | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Aperol + Angostura bitterscocktails | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Homemade bitter liqueurcocktails | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Punt e Mescocktails | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Non-alcoholic bitter syrupmocktails | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Aperol
different taste, similar texture
Italian bitter liqueur with similar flavor profile but less bitter than Campari.
- Best for
- cocktails, spritz drinks, aperitifs, mixed drinks
Less bitter, sweeter, similar color and flavor profile, more approachable.
Cynar
different taste, similar texture
Italian artichoke-based bitter liqueur with complex herbal flavors.
- Best for
- cocktails, aperitifs, mixed drinks
Different base flavor (artichoke), similar bitterness level, complex herbal notes.
Aperol + Angostura bitters
similar taste and texture
Combination of Aperol with Angostura bitters to increase bitterness.
- Best for
- cocktails, mixed drinks
Use 3 parts Aperol to 1 part Angostura bitters, adjust to taste.
Homemade bitter liqueur
different taste, similar texture
DIY version made with vodka, bittering agents, and sweeteners.
- Best for
- cocktails, mixed drinks
Requires time to develop, customizable bitterness level, cost-effective.
Punt e Mes
different taste, similar texture
Italian vermouth with bitter and sweet notes, similar complexity to Campari.
- Best for
- cocktails, aperitifs, mixed drinks
Different base (vermouth), similar bitterness, complex flavor profile.
Non-alcoholic bitter syrup
different taste and texture
Alcohol-free alternative made with bittering agents and sweeteners.
- Best for
- mocktails, non-alcoholic drinks
No alcohol, similar bitterness, may need adjustment for sweetness.
Questions
6 questionsCan 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.
Tips for substituting Campari
8 tips- Campari adds a distinctive bitter-sweet flavor to cocktails and aperitifs
- Use in small amounts as it has a strong, concentrated flavor
- Good 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