Americano Cocktail Recipe

The Americano cocktail has its roots in the 19th century, when it was first created in Italy. It is believed to have been named after the American tourists who frequented the bars and cafes of Milan and enjoyed this refreshing drink. The Americano is a classic aperitif, perfect for enjoying before a meal to stimulate the appetite.

• Originally known as the 'Milano-Torino' due to its combination of Campari from Milan and sweet vermouth from Turin
• Became popular with American tourists during Prohibition, hence the name 'Americano'
• The Americano is also the base for the famous Negroni cocktail, which adds gin to the mix

The Americano has a complex and bittersweet taste, with herbal and citrus notes. It is refreshing, slightly bitter, and mildly sweet, making it a perfect balance of flavors.

• The Americano is often served as an aperitif, meaning it is consumed before a meal to stimulate the appetite
• The Americano is considered a classic cocktail and is listed in the International Bartenders Association's official list of cocktails
• The Americano is the first cocktail ordered by James Bond in Ian Fleming's 007 series, in the novel 'Casino Royale'

1. Fill a rocks glass with ice
2. Add 1 oz of Campari
3. Add 1 oz of sweet vermouth
4. Top with 2 oz of club soda
5. Gently stir to combine
6. Garnish with an orange slice

• Use fresh ice to ensure the cocktail stays cold without diluting too quickly
• Stir gently to combine the ingredients without losing the carbonation of the club soda
• Use a fresh orange slice for garnish to add a burst of citrus flavor

Classic Italian Fare

• Antipasto: An Americano has bittersweet notes that can cut through the richness of cured meats and cheeses.
• Pizza: Opt for a Margherita or a pizza with arugula; the herbal notes will complement the vermouth.

Light Bites

• Bruschetta: The fresh tomato and basil are a great match for the Americano's brightness.
• Olives: The cocktail's bitterness pairs nicely with the saltiness of green olives.

Seafood

• Grilled Shrimp: The char from grilling and the sweetness of shrimp balance the bitter and sweet flavors in the cocktail.

Sweets

• Dark Chocolate: A piece of high-quality dark chocolate alongside an Americano can be a divine pairing, as bitter loves bitter.

• Campari: Can be substituted with another bitter aperitif like Aperol, but it will change the taste profile
• Sweet Vermouth: Can be substituted with dry vermouth for a less sweet cocktail
• Club Soda: Can be substituted with tonic water for a different twist

Spicy Americano

Add a slice of jalapeño to the glass before adding ice, giving the cocktail a fiery twist. The subtle heat brings a new dimension to the bittersweet classic, creating a dance of flavors that's perfect for those who like a little kick.

Italian Soda Americano

Swap out the club soda for an Italian soda like San Pellegrino Aranciata. It turns the drink into a sweet, bubbly citrus treat that's less about the bitter and more about the fun.

Americano on the Rocks

Ditch the club soda and serve the Campari and sweet vermouth over ice, perhaps with a splash of grapefruit juice. This makes for a stiffer, fruitier sip, not for the faint of heart but perfect for the bold flavor adventurer.