Campari and Vodka: A Match Made in Cocktail Heaven

While the Negroni reigns supreme in the world of Campari cocktails, vodka also pairs surprisingly well with Campari's bold, bittersweet profile. Here are two exciting vodka-based Campari cocktail recipes to explore:

1. Spring Fling: A Refreshing Twist

This vibrant cocktail offers a delightful balance of Campari's bitterness with the smooth character of vodka, brightened by a touch of citrus.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 ounces Campari
• 3/4 ounce vodka
• 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
• Dash of simple syrup (optional)
• Lemon wedge (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Fill a coupe glass (or martini glass) with ice cubes. Swirl the ice around for a few seconds, then discard the water to ensure a chilled glass.
2. Empty the ice from the glass. Using a jigger (optional) or measuring spoons, add Campari, vodka, and lemon juice to the chilled glass.
3. Stir gently with a bar spoon for about 15 seconds to dilute and chill the drink. Strain the mixture into the chilled coupe glass.
4. If you prefer a slightly sweeter drink, add a dash of simple syrup and stir briefly to incorporate.
5. Garnish the rim of the glass with a lemon wedge and enjoy your refreshing Spring Fling!

Tips:

• For a more citrusy flavor, add a squeeze of fresh orange juice along with the lemon juice.
• If you don't have simple syrup, you can use a sprinkle of granulated sugar instead. However, stirring will take longer to dissolve the sugar.
• Experiment with different vodkas. Citrus-infused vodkas can add an extra layer of flavor complexity.

2. White Negroni: A Lighter Take on a Classic

This recipe offers a vodka twist on the classic Negroni, providing a lighter and more floral alternative.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 ounces vodka
• 1 ounce Lillet Blanc
• 1/2 ounce Suze
• Lemon twist (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Fill a rocks glass with ice cubes. Swirl the ice around for a few seconds, then discard the water to ensure a chilled glass.
2. Using a jigger (optional) or measuring spoons, add vodka, Lillet Blanc, and Suze to the chilled glass.
3. Stir gently with a bar spoon for about 15 seconds to dilute and chill the drink. Strain the mixture into the chilled rocks glass, discarding the ice.
4. Express the oils from a lemon twist over the drink and garnish the rim of the glass. Enjoy your White Negroni!

Tips:

• If you don't have Suze, you can substitute another gentian liqueur, such as Aperol or Campari. However, the flavor profile will be slightly different.
• Lillet Blanc is a type of fortified wine similar to dry vermouth. If you can't find Lillet Blanc, you can substitute dry vermouth, but the drink will be a bit drier.
• Adjust the proportions to your taste preference. You can use less vodka for a more subtle spirit presence.

So, explore the exciting possibilities of vodka and Campari, and find your perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and refreshing!