The Genoa Vodka is a short, intense drink that combines the bitter herbal notes of Campari with the freshness of orange juice. The vodka provides a clear, neutral base that does not overpower the other ingredients. Perfect for those who prefer a slightly bitter taste without sacrificing fruitiness. A drink that surprises with its balance – not too sweet, not too bitter, just right.
And here’s what you need for the Genoa Vodka
4 cl vodka
2 cl Campari
6 cl freshly squeezed orange juice
Ice cubes
Orange slice for garnish
Key details
The trick lies in the orange juice: use only freshly squeezed juice, preferably from blood oranges when in season. The higher acidity and slightly bitter notes pair better with Campari than the mild juice from Navel oranges. If you can’t find blood oranges, mix in some lemon juice (0.5 cl) with the orange juice – this balances the sweetness and enhances the bitterness of the Campari. Rinse the glass briefly with cold water before pouring and dry it, so the drink doesn’t become watered down.
Variations
- Genoa Gin — Replace the vodka with 4 cl London Dry Gin. The juniper and herbal notes of the gin harmonize especially well with Campari and give the drink a more complex, spicier base. Garnish: lemon zest instead of an orange slice.
- Genoa Spritz — Reduce the vodka to 2 cl and add 6 cl ice-cold Prosecco. Build the drink over ice in the glass, do not shake. Garnish: orange slice and half a lemon slice.
Frequently asked questions
Can I replace the orange juice with store-bought juice?
Yes, but fresh juice makes a noticeable difference. Store-bought juice often contains added sugar and loses aroma through storage. If you use store-bought juice, choose a high-quality direct juice without additives and shake the drink a little longer to better combine the ingredients.
Why does the drink sometimes taste too bitter?
This is usually due to the ratio of Campari to orange juice. If the juice lacks acidity or the Campari is too dominant, the bitterness will prevail. Try mixing the orange juice with a little lemon juice (0.5 cl) or use blood oranges, which are naturally more tart.
Can I make the drink without alcohol?
Yes, replace the vodka with 4 cl non-alcoholic vodka or simply 4 cl cold water. The Campari remains, but the taste will be milder. For more depth, you can add 1 cl of lemon juice.
