KINGSVILLE, ON - Two decades ago, SUNSET® introduced to the world The Tomato Lover’s Tomato™, better known as the Campari®. Today, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of this misfit turned cult classic, SUNSET® is taking another look at the inception of Campari® as well as launching a new consumer sweepstakes this week to promote the brand.
“One of our customers had approached us one day and said ‘let’s throw out all the rules that say big, big, big. Let’s just focus on flavor. See what that looks like,’” said Paul Mastronardi, CEO.
Introduced in 1995, the unique European variety was uncharacteristic of its bigger counterparts at the time. It was small, comparable to a golf ball, not watery, and as you can imagine, not many people were sold on the unique size or look at first.
“It wasn’t until people tasted it, that they were truly convinced it was the real deal. Then they were hooked. We’ve never slowed down since,” continued Mastronardi.
It took hundreds of varieties, as well as countless taste tests conducted by employees, family members, and customers that SUNSET® had finally achieved perfection.
Known for its deep shade of red, unique size, and balanced sweet and acidic flavor profile, the Campari® is considered to be one of the most versatile tomatoes in the kitchen, ideal for everything from a breakfast omelette to fresh pasta sauce, according to a press release. Thousands of chefs, retailers, and consumers look to the brand for reliable and consistent flavor, as well as its juicy texture.
“Nearly everyday we receive emails, letters, or calls from consumers thanking us for growing such a fantastic product,” said Daniela Ferro, Communications Coordinator. “It’s pretty amazing when people share that they’ve always hated tomatoes until they’ve tried Campari®.”
SUNSET® is honoring 20 years of Campari® by launching a 20 week sweepstakes starting this week where consumers can win a trip for 2 to Tuscany, Italy.
You can visit sunsetgrown.com/recipes to check out some of SUNSET®’s favorite ways to enjoy Campari® and enter the sweepstakes for the trip of a lifetime.
