Recipe
- 1.5oz Campari
- 1.5oz sweet vermouth (I used Carpano Antica Formula Vermouth)
- 3-4oz sparkling water
In a highball glass filled with ice, combine the Campari and vermouth, then top off with soda water. Stir before enjoying
About
For my first cocktail for Amaro Week, a campaign dedicated to love for the class of bittersweet herbal liqueurs, there is nothing more appropriate than the classic Americano – the cocktail version. In recent years, amaro has found increasing popularity for usage in craft cocktails, but this classic actually dates back over 100 years. This is a light and refreshing cocktail, the famous Negroni’s younger sister, that is typically drank at the start a meal and will surely open up your appetite.
Similar to how the coffee version of an Americano is a watered down espresso, the Americano cocktail is similarly a watered down version of a popular Italian cocktail from the mid 1800s – the Milano-Torino (same sans the sparkling water). What is it with Americans and watery drinks?!During American Prohibition, this variant of the Milano-Torino became popular amongst American tourists and so was born the “Americano.” It’s a low-ABV treat that is delightfully flavorful, bitter and sweet, ice cold, and extremely simple to whip up. This is also a perfect brunch cocktail and something fun to switch up from your spritzes or mimosas.
If you’ve never tried this, give it a shot and you may find it make its way into your regular rotation! All you need is Campari (super easy to find at any liquor store these days) and a sweet/red vermouth. Remember that if you use vermouth, make sure you keep it in the fridge well sealed and try to use it within a month or so to prevent oxidation (see Carpano Antica Formula Vermouth for my fav and more info).