From Sparrow’s amaro and aperitivo list, Campari is the bright red Italian bitter that practically invented the pre-dinner ritual, $11 by the pour, or $16.50 for a larger pour.
About Campari
Campari was created in 1860 by Gaspare Campari, who had been refining his bitter aperitivo recipe for years before settling on the formula. In 1862 he moved to Milan and opened a cafe near the Duomo, and the drink became a fixture of Italian cafe culture. It is made by infusing a long list of herbs, aromatic roots, and fruit peels (including bitter orange) in alcohol and water, then sweetening to balance that signature bitterness. The deep crimson color is the brand’s calling card, instantly recognizable in a glass. Today it is one of the most famous aperitivos in the world, the backbone of the Negroni and the Americano.
Tasting Notes
Campari is bracingly bitter and bittersweet, with bright orange-peel citrus, herbal and root notes, and a clean, dry finish. It is bold and a little bracing on its own, which is exactly why it shines stretched with soda or built into a cocktail.
What to Pair It With
Campari is the classic aperitivo, made to open the appetite before a meal. Enjoy it over ice with a splash of soda and an orange slice, or as the heart of a Negroni in our 21+ lounge. From the Sparrow menu it loves salty shareables like the Truffle Deviled Eggs, Burrata Avocado, or Fresh Oysters. Catch it during our daily happy hour, 3 to 5 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Campari?
Campari is an Italian bitter aperitivo created in 1860 by Gaspare Campari, made by infusing herbs, aromatic roots, and fruit peels including bitter orange. It is known for its vivid red color and is the base of the Negroni.
How much is a pour of Campari at Sparrow in Kirkland?
A pour of Campari at Sparrow is $11, or $16.50 for a larger pour. You will find it on the beverages menu at our Juanita-neighborhood restaurant in Kirkland.
Find Campari on the Sparrow beverages menu alongside aperitivo cousins like Cynar and Cardamaro. We are on Kirkland’s Eastside in the Juanita neighborhood, so reserve a table and start your evening the Italian way.