Americano is a strong (20-26%) alcoholic cocktail with a touch of citrus bitterness, created over a hundred years ago. Refers to aperitifs (drinks served before meals to increase appetite). Very popular in Italy and USA. This cocktail was ordered by James Bond in Ian Fleming’s first book. With readily available ingredients and ease of preparation, Americano is easy to make at home.
Historical reference. The Americano cocktail was invented in the 1860s by Gaspar Campari, an Italian bartender, owner of a liquor company, who created the legendary bitter (bitter liquor) Campari, which includes about 60 components. Gaspard was the first to think of mixing red vermouth with his liquor, and reducing bitterness with soda. The drink became a hit at the local bar.
Initially, the cocktail was called Milano-Turino, since at that time the red vermouth Martini Rosso was produced in Turin, and the Campari liqueur was produced in Milan. In 1900, the author of the recipe changed the name to Americano. According to legend, this happened after Gaspar Campari noticed a group of Americans in his bar happily drinking his cocktail. To show goodwill “Milano-Turino” began to be called “Americano”, although the composition and proportions remained the same.
In the 20s of the last century, with the introduction of Prohibition in the United States, the Americano cocktail became the most popular alcoholic drink for American tourists coming to Italy on vacation. In 1928, “Americano” appeared in Adolphe Torelli’s 900 Recipes for American Cocktails and Drinks.
Composition and proportions:
- sweet red vermouth – 50 ml;
- Campari – 50 ml;
- soda (soda) – 15-50 ml;
- ice cubes – 4-5 grams;
- orange – 30 grams (optional).
Often, a red martini (Martini Rosso) is used in a cocktail. Campari is an Italian bitter liquor based on citruses and aromatic herbs. There is no difference in taste between soda and regular soda.
classic americano recipe
1. Put ice in a glass (highball or old fashion).
2. Pour red vermouth and Campari.
3. Add soda, based on the proportions of the recipe. The more soda, the less the fortress.
4. Stir.
5. Garnish with a slice of lemon or orange. Can be served with a straw, but a straw is not recommended for strong cocktails.
Detailed cooking technology is shown in the video.
