How to Make an Americano Cocktail

While it may not be the go-to drink for many of today’s cocktail lovers, the Americano is an iconic cocktail with a long and rich history. In this post, we’ll give you all of the know-how needed to make an Americano cocktail at home. James Bond has forever been associated with the vodka martini — shaken not stirred, of course — but 007’s original cocktail of choice was an Americano, which he orders in Ian Fleming’s Casino Royale. This delicious and easy-to-make aperitif makes for the perfect pre or post-dinner cocktail, and is simply a great choice for those looking for something more unique. Here’s everything you need to know about the Americano cocktail!

The Story of the Americano

The Americano is a  truly classic cocktail and was originally served at Gaspare Campari's bar in the 1860’s in Milan, Italy. Its original name was the ""Milano-Torino"", because Campari originates from Milan and sweet vermouth is also often referred to as Italian vermouth or “Vermouth di Torino”. Several years later — near the turn of the 20th century and prior to Prohibition — the cocktail became very popular among American tourists. The cocktail was soon renamed and given a title that not only is less of a mouthful, but also gives a nod to its popularity at the time. The Americano was born!

How to Make an Americano Cocktail

Both the cocktail recipe and method are extremely simple, which will have undoubtedly lent to its widespread popularity. Below, you’ll find everything you need to make an authentic Americano:

What You'll Need

  • 50ml Campari
  • 50ml sweet vermouth
  • 90ml soda water
  • Garnish: ​lemon twist or orange slice

How to Make It

  • Gather and measure the ingredients
  • Pour the Campari and vermouth into a glass filled with ice cubes (ideally an old-fashioned glass)
  • Top up with soda water
  • Garnish with an orange slice
  • Serve to your guests or sit down and enjoy your classic cocktail!
Pro Tip: If you prefer more soda in your cocktail, you can switch your tumbler for a highball glass.

Buy Campari Online from Drink Finder

Whenever you make cocktails, it’s always a good idea to use high-quality spirits, especially when your base spirit is something as sweet and unique as Campari or vermouth. At Drink Finder, we not only have an extensive range of spirits to choose from (perfect for all your cocktail needs), but we are also happy to recommend specific spirits to suit certain cocktails. Although the Americano may not be as popular among cocktail lovers as it once was, if it’s good enough for James Bond, it’s definitely worth trying, It’s easy to make, especially when compared to more advanced cocktails — so what are you waiting for?
Do you want to make some Americanos at home and need to stock up on ingredients? You’ve come to the right place. At Drink Finder, we stock a wide range of spirits, including Campari and vermouth. If you have any cocktail queries, questions, or you just want to chat about booze, don’t hesitate to get in touch.