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Campari vs Aperol
The two Italian red bitters: how far apart they really are in strength, bitterness and sweetness.
Which should you use?
Campari is the bitter one and the stronger one; Aperol is sweeter, softer and less than half the strength. Reach for Campari when the drink is meant to bite — a Negroni, an Americano, a Boulevardier. Reach for Aperol when the drink is long, sparkling and for the afternoon.
| Dimension | Campari | Aperol |
|---|---|---|
| Typical strength | 25% ABV | 11% ABV |
| Bitterness | Pronounced, lingering | Gentle; reads as bittersweet orange |
| Sweetness | Present, but behind the bitterness | Leads |
| Main flavours | Bitter orange, herbs, a little cherry | Sweet orange, rhubarb, light herbs |
| Colour | Deep red | Bright orange |
| Classic use | Negroni, Americano, Boulevardier | Aperol Spritz |
Using one in place of the other
Aperol in a Negroni makes a sweeter, weaker, far less bitter drink — pleasant, but not a Negroni. Campari in a Spritz works if you like it bitter, and is a recognised drink of its own.