Campari unveils new bottle design at Auckland event

AUCKLAND, Today: Campari, the famed Italian aperitif, has unveiled its first new bottle design in over a decade, inspired by its origins in Milan.

Last week, Campari showcased the elegant new bottle with an aperitivo hour at Auckland’s luxurious rooftop bar, The Churchill, hosted by Kiwi-Italian celebrity Paolo Rotundo.

“Aperitivo hour is a central part of Milanese culture, often defined by a Campari cocktail like the contemporary-classic Negroni,” says Brad Madigan, Managing Director of Campari.

“Aperitivo is similar to what we know as Happy Hour. A couple of hours from late afternoon until early evening to unwind and connect with friends and family over shared drinks and food.

It is a true ritual for Italians, and something we’re delighted to share with Kiwis through the brand’s Milanese heritage,” says Madigan.

“Aperitivo hour is a central part of Milanese culture, often defined by a Campari cocktail like the contemporary-classic Negroni.”

Guests enjoyed various aperitivi like the Negroni Sbagliato, Campari Spritz, and Milano Torino, paired with exquisite one-bite snacks to enhance the bitters.

“Kiwis need not wait for a sojourn to Italy to enjoy the artful tradition of aperitivo hour – more cocktail bars in New Zealand are embracing the Italian happy hour.

“With a bar well-stocked with Campari, and a few complementary snacks at the ready, it can even be re-created at home. Aside from a premium Italian bitter, like Campari, the key is to keep it unhurried, elegant, and joyful, in true Milanese style,” says Scott O’Connor, General Manager of The Churchill.

As the event closed, a stunning lighting installation by Creature Post lit up the Auckland skyline, celebrating the new Campari bottle.

The event also featured an artistic installation of 164 new-look Campari bottles, remaining on display at The Churchill throughout April. The venue will also offer a special Campari menu this month, complete with Milanese canapés.

“We wanted to fully immerse our guests in the atmosphere and ambience of Milan at its most sophisticated, magical time of night.”

“We wanted to fully immerse our guests in the atmosphere and ambience of Milan at its most sophisticated, magical time of night.”

“The event was just as much a reflection of Milano, as the newly redesigned bottle – sharp, bold, and confident,” concludes Madigan.

Campari cocktails are now served at The Churchill from Tuesday to Saturday, starting at 4pm, ideal for experiencing the ultimate aperitivo hour.

The redesigned Campari bottle is now available across New Zealand liquor stores.