Garibaldi Cocktail Recipe

This cocktail is named after Giuseppe Garibaldi, a key figure in Italy's unification. Campari comes from the north and the oranges represent the south, so this drink is like a tasty symbol of bringing things together. It's also a fun way to dip into Italian aperitivo culture without needing a long list of ingredients.

You don't need any special tools or bartending skills. If you can juice an orange, you can make this drink. That creamy, frothy top you see at fancy bars? Just aerate the juice a bit by shaking or blending it quickly.

Serve it at brunch, before dinner, or during a relaxed afternoon. It's simple, bittersweet, and surprisingly crowd-pleasing for something so easy to make.

What’s in a Garibaldi Cocktail?

The Garibaldi blends the bitter bite of Campari with the bright, sweet taste of fresh orange juice. It’s simple but full of flavor when you use fresh ingredients and aerate the juice.

Ingredients and Substitutions

Campari – Gives the cocktail its bold, bittersweet flavor. You can swap it with Cappelletti or Contratto Bitter for a slightly fruitier or smoother twist.

Fresh orange juice – Valencia or Navel oranges work best. Use it right after squeezing for the brightest flavor. For that foamy texture, whip air into it using a blender or milk frother. You can also try blood orange, mandarin, or pineapple juice if you want to change it up.

Equipment You’ll Need

You’ll want these tools on hand:

• Juicer or blender (for fluffy juice)
• Fine mesh strainer (if you don’t like pulp)
• Bar spoon (for mixing)
• Highball glass (classic Garibaldi style)

How to Make a Garibaldi: Campari & Orange Cocktail

Start with fresh orange juice. That’s key. The secret to a great Garibaldi is making the juice light and frothy, not flat. You can shake it hard in a cocktail shaker, give it a quick spin in a blender, or use a milk frother to whip in some air.

Once your juice is nice and fluffy, fill a glass with ice. Pour in your Campari first, then slowly add the juice on top.

Stir it gently. You’ll see the color brighten and a soft, cloud-like foam rise to the top. It’s a simple drink, but it looks and tastes like something special.

Flavor-wise, you get a mix of sweet and bitter. Campari brings that bold, zesty edge, while the fresh juice rounds it out with citrusy brightness. Each sip is crisp, refreshing, and just a little tangy.

Finish it off with an orange wedge or a thin slice on the rim. It adds a nice pop of color and a little boost of fresh orange aroma.

This drink is perfect for brunch, easy afternoons, or when you want a light start before dinner.

Want exact measurements? You’ll find the full recipe just below.

Tips and Tricks to Make the Best Balance of Flavor and the Best Garibaldi Cocktail

• Use fluffy orange juice.
  Whip air into the juice with a blender, juicer, or milk frother. This gives the drink a light, foamy texture that feels fresh and smooth.
• Choose the right oranges.
  Valencia, Navel, or mandarins work best. They have the perfect balance of sweet and tart.
• Add a pinch of salt.
  Just a small amount can boost the sweetness and take the edge off the Campari’s bitterness.
• Chill your glass.
  A cold glass keeps your cocktail crisp and makes it extra refreshing.
• Stir gently.
  Avoid shaking. Stir slowly to keep the juice thick and preserve that nice foam on top.
• Adjust to your taste.
  Don’t be afraid to tweak things. Try different oranges or change the juice texture until it’s just how you like it.

Garibaldi Recipe Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? It’s super easy to tweak your Garibaldi with different juices or small flavor boosts. Here are a few fun ways to change the vibe while keeping that refreshing base.

• Pineapple Garibaldi
  Add 1 oz of fresh pineapple juice for a sweet, tropical twist. It gives the drink extra foam and a little island flair in every sip.
• Grapefruit Twist
  Mix in 1 oz of fresh grapefruit juice for a tangy kick. It balances out the Campari with just the right amount of brightness.
• Blood Orange Swap
  Swap regular orange juice with blood orange juice. You’ll get a deeper color and a bolder citrus flavor.
• Aperol Version
  Want something a little less bitter? Try using Aperol instead of Campari. Add a splash of lemon or lime juice to keep it light and balanced.
• Add a touch of sweetness
  If you like things on the sweeter side, stir in a little simple syrup. It softens the bitterness and lets the fruit flavors stand out more.

Feel free to mix and taste as you go. These little changes can help you find your perfect version of the Garibaldi.

More Classic Campari Cocktails

Love Campari? Here are a few other classics you might want to mix up next:

• Negroni
• Boulevardier
• Americano
• Campari Spritz
• Old Pal
• Mezcal Negroni
• Aquavit Negroni

Frequently Asked Questions