Americano (cocktail)

The Americano is an IBA official cocktail composed of Campari, sweet vermouth, and club soda. It is a simple and classic aperitivo, known for its refreshing and bittersweet flavor profile.

History:

The Americano originated in Italy, specifically in the 1860s at Gaspare Campari's bar, Caffè Campari, in Milan. It was initially known as the "Milano-Torino" because of its two main ingredients: Campari from Milan and sweet vermouth (traditionally Martini & Rossi) from Turin. The name "Americano" is said to have come about because of its popularity with American tourists during the Prohibition era, who found the drink to be a relatively mild and palatable introduction to Italian bitters.

Preparation:

The typical preparation involves combining Campari and sweet vermouth in an old fashioned or rocks glass filled with ice. The mixture is then topped with club soda and garnished with an orange slice or lemon twist. The proportions can vary slightly depending on personal preference, but a common ratio is equal parts Campari and sweet vermouth, with the club soda added to taste.

Variations:

While the classic Americano has a specific recipe, variations exist. Some bartenders might experiment with different types of sweet vermouth or add a dash of other bitters to enhance the flavor complexity. A common variation is the Negroni, which is essentially an Americano with gin added.

Serving:

The Americano is typically served as an aperitivo, meant to stimulate the appetite before a meal. Its refreshing nature makes it a popular choice, particularly in warmer weather.