Should you refrigerate Campari?

Answered by Randy McIntyre

You should refrigerate Campari once it has been opened. Campari is a popular Italian liqueur that is often enjoyed as an apéritif or used in cocktails. It has a bitter and aromatic flavor profile, which makes it a great choice for refreshing and vibrant drinks.

The reason why Campari should be refrigerated after opening is because it has a relatively low alcohol content, typically around 24%. This means that it has a higher water content compared to higher-proof spirits like whiskey or vodka. Refrigerating Campari helps to preserve its flavors and prevent any spoilage or degradation of the product.

By keeping Campari in the fridge, you can ensure that it maintains its vibrant red color and its distinct bitter taste. It also helps to keep the liqueur at a consistent temperature, which is important for preserving its quality. If Campari is left at room temperature for an extended period of time, it may start to lose its flavor and freshness.

It’s worth noting that the need to refrigerate Campari applies to other low-proof apéritifs as well. Examples of these include dry vermouth, sweet vermouth, blanc/white/rosé vermouth, Lillet Blanc/Rosé/Rouge, and pastis. These types of apéritifs are typically enjoyed before a meal to stimulate the appetite, and they also benefit from being chilled.

On the other hand, there are also digestif liquors that should be refrigerated once opened. These are usually enjoyed after a meal to aid digestion. Examples of digestif liquors include Drambuie, Kahlua, and Limoncello. Refrigerating them helps to maintain their flavors and prevent any deterioration.

It is recommended to refrigerate Campari and other low-proof apéritifs after opening. This helps to preserve their flavors and ensures that they remain fresh and enjoyable. By keeping these liquors chilled, you can enhance your drinking experience and fully appreciate their unique characteristics.