Americano

The Negroni's spritzy, taller brother.

americano cocktail recipe daniel krieger

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.

Ingredients

Serving: 1

  • 1 1/2 ounces Campari
  • 1 1/2 ounces Campari
  • 1 1/2 ounces sweet vermouth
  • 1 1/2 ounces sweet vermouth
  • soda water
  • soda water

Garnish: orange slice or orange peel

Directions
  1. Add Campari and sweet vermouth to a Collins or rocks glass.
  2. Add ice and top with soda.
  3. 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.