Campari is an Italian bitter with a deep ruby colour and an unmistakable bittersweet flavour. It is an aperitif, made to sharpen the appetite before a meal. The palate weaves together orange peel, savoury herbs, quinine and woody tones. The drink is concentrated, and the bitterness leads rather than lingers in the background. It is rarely drunk neat; over ice is better — fill a wide rocks glass with ice, pour 50 ml and add a slice of orange. Cocktails are its natural territory: Negroni (equal parts Campari, red vermouth and gin), Americano (Campari, red vermouth and soda) and Campari Spritz with prosecco and soda. At the table it suits aged cheeses such as Parmesan and Pecorino, olives, sun-dried tomatoes and bruschetta, prosciutto and salami, grilled prawns and citrus.