The Red Canal

Sidecar/New Orleans Sours & Riffs • October 21, 2026

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A photo of the The Red Canal cocktail containing Ketel One Vodka, Campari Aperitivo, Freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice in a Collins.

Other Ingredients

  • 3.00 fl oz Freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice

Directions

  • Add ice to shaker
  • Add all ingredients to shaker
  • Shake well with ice
  • Fill Collins glass with ice
  • Strain mixture into ice-filled Collins glass
  • Garnish with lime wedge

Cocktail Description

This bittersweet beauty brings together the crisp neutrality of vodka with Campari's herbal bite and tart pink grapefruit for a drink that's both refreshing and sophisticated.

The Red Canal tastes bright and citrus-forward, with the grapefruit's natural tanginess playing off Campari's trademark bitter orange notes while the vodka keeps everything smooth and balanced. It's an easy drink to make—just shake everything with ice and strain into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice—making it perfect for casual entertaining or a relaxed afternoon on the patio. The lime wedge garnish adds a final zip of citrus aroma that ties the whole thing together. This aperitivo-style cocktail works beautifully before dinner to wake up your appetite, or alongside lighter fare like grilled fish, charcuterie, or a citrusy arugula salad with shaved Parmesan. The drink's gentle bitterness cuts through rich or fatty foods surprisingly well, so don't shy away from pairing it with smoked salmon or prosciutto-wrapped melon. Whether you're looking for something to sip while watching the sunset or need a sophisticated sipper for weekend brunch, The Red Canal delivers a grown-up flavor profile without requiring any bartending acrobatics.

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