Cocktail Americano
The Americano is a timeless and refreshing cocktail that brings a touch of Italian sophistication to any occasion. Its light bitterness, balanced sweetness, and effervescence make it an excellent aperitif or a go-to drink for warm evenings. Best of all, it’s incredibly simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and no advanced bartending skills. Even if you’ve already had a few drinks, you can still mix up a perfect Americano with ease.
A Bit of History
The Americano cocktail is an evolution of the classic Milan-Torino cocktail, created around 1860. It gets its name from its key ingredients: Campari, which hails from Milan, and Cinzano Vermouth, originating from Turin. The drink gained popularity among American tourists visiting Italy in the early 20th century, which is how it earned its name, the Americano.
Americano Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients:
- 30 ml Campari
- 30 ml red vermouth (e.g., Cinzano or Martini Rosso)
- 30 ml tonic (or club soda for a lighter taste)
- Ice cubes
- Orange slice for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a rock glass (or highball glass) with ice cubes.
- Pour in the Campari and red vermouth.
- Add the tonic (or club soda for a more classic version).
- Stir gently to combine the flavours.
- Garnish with a fresh orange slice.
Tips & Variations:
- Want a bolder flavour? Swap the tonic for club soda, staying true to the original version.
- Prefer a sweeter touch? Add a splash of orange juice or use a sweeter vermouth.
- For an extra twist, experiment with a lemon twist instead of an orange slice.
Fun Fact:
The Americano is James Bond’s first cocktail in Ian Fleming’s novel Casino Royale, before he later became famous for his love of martinis.
So, whether you’re channelling your inner secret agent or just looking for a smooth and stylish drink, the Americano is a fantastic choice. Cheers.