Cocktail
Americano
How to make an Americano Cocktail - the Italian classic of Campari, red vermouth and soda. The bittersweet aperitif forerunner of the Negroni.
3 minPrep time
easyDifficulty
TumblerGlass
1Serving(s)
The Americano is the elegant forerunner of the Negroni and one of the oldest Italian aperitifs. The harmonious balance of bitter Campari, sweet vermouth and fizzy soda makes it light and extremely drinkable. Even James Bond ordered one in Ian Fleming’s first novel.
Instructions
- Fill a tumbler with ice cubes.
- Pour Campari and red vermouth over the ice.
- Top up with soda.
- Stir briefly to combine all the ingredients.
- Garnish with an orange slice.
Garnish: An orange slice
Pro tip: The Americano lives on the balance of Campari and vermouth - keep the ratio at 1:1 and top up with soda only at the end.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an Americano and a Negroni?
The Americano consists of Campari, vermouth and soda. In the Negroni the soda is replaced with gin, which makes it considerably stronger and more bitter.
Where does the Americano get its name?
The name probably comes from the Milan bar Caffè Camparino. Despite the name, it is a thoroughly Italian aperitif.
Which vermouth suits the Americano?
A classic red vermouth such as Martini Rosso or Cinzano Rosso is perfect, as its sweetness balances the bitterness of the Campari.
Ingredients
- Campari3 cl
- Red vermouth (e.g. Martini Rosso)3 cl
- Soda6 cl
- Ice cubesas needed
- Orange1 slice
