The Rome with a View cocktail, created by Michael McIlroy, captures the charm of an Italian summer day with its bright and balanced flavours. Combining the zesty bite of lime, the smoothness of Cinzano Vermouth Bianco, and the unmistakable depth of Campari, this drink is perfect for those who appreciate a slightly bitter sip. Topped with a splash of soda water and finished with a pretty orange wheel, it’s the kind of cocktail that invites you to savour the moment, wherever you are.
Rome with a View
PREP TIME 2 min
QUICK TIPS
INSTRUCTIONS
01
1.
Add Campari, vermouth, lime juice, and sugar syrup to a cocktail shaker
02
2.
Add ice and shake until chilled
03
3.
Strain into a Collins glass over fresh ice
04
4.
Top with soda water and garnish with an orange wheel
Can I use sweet vermouth instead of bianco?
While the original recipe calls for Cinzano Vermouth Bianco, which has a softer, almost floral taste, you can experiment with sweet vermouth for a different twist. Sweet vermouth will bring a richer, slightly spicier profile to the drink, complementing Campari’s bitterness and adding a touch of warmth. Cinzano Rosso, with its hints of vanilla and caramel, can be an excellent swap if you’re after a deeper flavour.
Read next: Everything You Need to Know About Vermouth
How to make sugar syrup at home
Making sugar syrup is a breeze and adds a personal touch to your cocktails. To whip up a batch, combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. For instance, mix one cup of granulated sugar with one cup of water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.
Once done, let it cool before transferring it to a clean bottle or jar. This syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month, making it perfect for cocktails, iced teas, or even drizzling over desserts.
Learn more: The Complete Guide to Sugar Syrups
More cocktails to try if you enjoy a Rome with a View
If you love the Rome with a View, you’re probably a fan of drinks that balance bitterness with a hint of sweetness. Here are a few more cocktails that capture that same spirit:
- Americano: An iconic blend of Campari, sweet vermouth, and soda water, perfect for fans of bittersweet flavours.
- Negroni Sbagliato: A sparkling take on the classic Negroni, made with Prosecco instead of gin.
- Boulevardier: This rich, whiskey-based cousin of the Negroni adds a warming twist with bourbon or rye whiskey.
- Garibaldi: A simple mix of Campari and fresh orange juice; this one’s light, juicy, and easy to make.
Also see: Drink Like an Italian (8 Campari Cocktails to Try)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The Rome with a View is best served in a Collins glass. This type of glass showcases the drink's beautiful colour and allows room for plenty of ice and soda water, keeping it cool and perfectly diluted for sipping.
Cinzano Vermouth Bianco offers a delicate balance of herbs, citrus, and sweet florals, with just a hint of bitterness. It's versatile and works well in both classic and modern cocktails, adding depth without overpowering other ingredients.
Yes, if you prefer a less sweet cocktail, you can skip the sugar syrup altogether. Just keep in mind that the lime juice will stand out more, giving the drink an extra tangy kick. Alternatively, you could use a lighter alternative like agave syrup to add a subtle sweetness without masking the Campari and vermouth.
