What does an Americano cocktail taste like?
An Americano cocktail tastes like a light, fizzy Negroni: Campari and sweet vermouth topped with soda, so it is bittersweet orange and herbs, long and refreshing.
Americano
bittersweet, fizzy and light
The Americano cocktail is Campari and sweet vermouth, topped with soda water and served over ice with an orange slice. It's the Negroni's older, lighter sibling: no gin, so it's much lower in alcohol. It tastes bittersweet and fizzy, with Campari's orange peel and herbs up front and the vermouth's raisiny, spiced sweetness filling it out. The soda keeps it light and makes the bitterness feel refreshing instead of heavy. It's the drink to order when you want something interesting but plan to stay on your feet.
Where you’ll see it
On Italian restaurant menus, aperitivo lists and classic cocktail menus, in a tall or rocks glass with an orange slice. Not to be confused with the coffee drink of the same name.
Order it if you like bitter flavors but want a light, low-alcohol drink before dinner.
Quick questions
- Is an Americano cocktail the same as an Americano coffee?
- No. The cocktail is Campari, sweet vermouth and soda. The coffee is espresso with hot water. Same name, totally different drinks.
- What's the difference between an Americano and a Negroni?
- A Negroni has gin and no soda, so it is strong and intense. An Americano skips the gin and adds soda, so it is lighter and fizzier.