Don’t let the name fool you: the Americano’s heritage is distinctly Italian. Born from the Milano-Torino (equal parts Campari from Milan and red vermouth from Torino over ice) in the 19th century, this cocktail—topped up with soda water and garnished with an orange twist—is believed by some to have been the favored beverage for American tourists seeking “la dolce vita” in Italy during Prohibition. Though its heavyweight cousin, the Negroni, may have more currency in today’s cocktail world, the Americano isn’t far behind.
Americano
The Negroni's spritzy, taller brother.
Ingredients
Serving: 1
- 1 1/2 ounces Campari
- 1 1/2 ounces sweet vermouth
- soda water
Garnish: orange slice or orange peel
Directions
- Add Campari and sweet vermouth to a Collins or rocks glass.
- Add ice and top with soda.
- Garnish with an orange slice or orange peel.
Editor's Note
An Americano works well with all walks of sweet vermouth, but we prefer Carpano Antica. In a pinch, Martini & Rossi makes a fine, albeit fruitier substitute.